How to get to Zalantun

When planning a trip to Zalantun, you are setting off for the picturesque "Garden City" in the north of China, situated in the foothills of the Greater Khingan Range in Inner Mongolia. This regional centre attracts travellers with its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, whilst its developed transport infrastructure makes planning a visit straightforward. To decide on the most convenient way to reach the city, it is worth considering options such as flying, travelling by train, or taking an intercity bus.

For travellers who value their time, the optimal choice is a direct flight to Zalantun Airport (NZL). This regional aviation hub receives scheduled flights and ensures reliable connections with major transport hubs. The airport terminal is located within easy reach of the city limits, so the transfer to the centre will not take much time.

If suitable tickets for a direct flight cannot be found, you can plan a route via neighbouring Qiqihar, located just 115 kilometres away. Its airport often offers a wider selection of connections, which is convenient for compiling a complex itinerary. Additionally, Ulanhot and Nenjiang, situated within 230 kilometres of your final destination, are worth considering as alternative arrival points.

Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and atmospheric ways to reach the city. Zalantun has an active railway station, which is an important stop on the busy Harbin — Manzhouli line. Thanks to this, passenger trains regularly pass through the city, connecting it with key transport hubs in the region.

Tourists can easily arrive here via a direct service from major centres such as Qiqihar or Harbin. A journey by rail offers the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views of the Greater Khingan foothills. The station is located quite conveniently relative to the city's infrastructure, so getting to your hotel by taxi or public transport will be effortless.

Intercity buses connect the region with neighbouring transport hubs, offering travellers a convenient and budget-friendly alternative to the railway. The most popular and fastest route runs from Qiqihar: a comfortable bus covers the distance of approximately 120 kilometres in an average of 2–2.5 hours. The road passes through picturesque terrain, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of Inner Mongolia's nature as you approach the city.

For those planning a trip from more distant points, regular services are available from Ulanhot and Nenjiang. The journey from these cities will take about 3–4 hours, as the distance is over 200 kilometres. Tickets for these routes can generally be purchased directly at the bus station counters before departure, adding flexibility to your itinerary.

Travelling by car offers you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the nature of Inner Mongolia at your own pace. The fastest and most convenient route runs from the city of Qiqihar: the distance is about 120 kilometres, which can be comfortably covered in 1.5–2 hours. This is an excellent option for those wishing to save time on the road.

The road from Nenjiang or Ulanhot will take a little more time, as these cities are located at a distance of around 230–250 kilometres from the destination. The drive will last on average 3–4 hours; however, the high-quality road surface makes the journey untiring. Furthermore, this format of travel allows you to make stops in scenic spots, turning the drive into a small adventure.

A trip to Zalantun promises to be unforgettable if you take note of the local features of this picturesque corner in advance. We have prepared a list of useful recommendations that will help you feel confident and comfortable during your visit to this part of China.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is sharply continental. If you are travelling in winter, prepare for severe frosts: be sure to pack thermal underwear, a warm down jacket, and non-slip footwear. In summer, the weather is comfortable and warm, but for evening walks, it is worth bringing a light windbreaker or sweater.
2. Transport: The most convenient way for a tourist to get around the city is by taxi. Prices here are quite reasonable, and cars can be hailed directly on the street. The bus network is well-developed, but navigating the routes without knowledge of Chinese characters can be difficult.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Yuan (RMB). You can exchange US Dollars or Euros only at branches of major banks by presenting your passport. International bank cards are rarely accepted, so it is better to have a supply of cash or install payment apps like Alipay or WeChat on your smartphone in advance.
4. Health and Safety: The city is calm and safe; however, drinking tap water is not recommended—please purchase bottled water. Bring a first-aid kit with your usual medicines, as it may be difficult to find equivalents of Western medications in local pharmacies or to explain your needs to a pharmacist.
5. Communication: Few people in Zalantun speak English. Be sure to download an offline translator app to your phone with voice input and photo translation capabilities for signs. It is also useful to carry a hotel business card with the address in Chinese for taxi drivers.
6. Local Etiquette: The Chinese value politeness and restraint. It is customary to greet each other with a slight nod or a handshake. In restaurants, do not leave your chopsticks standing vertically in a bowl of rice—this resembles a funeral ritual and is considered bad manners.
7. What to Avoid: Try not to plan important trips and excursions during major national holidays (such as Chinese New Year or the Golden Week in October), when transport and attractions are overcrowded with local tourists.
8. Additional Tip: Zalantun is famous for its ecology and natural views. Be sure to set aside time to visit the Yalu River National Scenic Area—it is an ideal place for picnics and photo sessions against the backdrop of nature.

Observing these simple rules will make your trip easy and save you from unnecessary organisational worries. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of the "Garden City" and discover new facets of the local culture!