How to get to Zunyi

When planning a journey to this vibrant city in Guizhou province, the first thing many tourists determine is how to get to Zunyi to explore its rich history and culture. Located in the picturesque southwest of China, this important regional centre boasts a developed transport infrastructure: you can fly here comfortably by plane, arrive by high-speed train, intercity bus, or car. Before you travel to Zunyi, it is worth studying the available routes to choose the most convenient and fastest option to begin your adventure.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by its own airport, Zunyi Xinzhou (ZYI), which receives regular flights from many major metropolises in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. This allows tourists to get to Zunyi directly, saving travel time.

Alternatively, travellers often choose to fly via the provincial capital, Guiyang. Guiyang Longdongbao Airport (KWE) is a major transport hub offering an even wider network of routes. The distance from Guiyang to the destination is less than 150 kilometres, which can be easily and quickly covered by high-speed train or transfer.

Rail transport is one of the most efficient ways to reach the city. Contrary to stereotypes about the inaccessibility of mountain regions, Zunyi is a key node on the modern high-speed line connecting Chongqing and Guiyang. Travellers can utilise the developed network of high-speed trains (CRH), which ensure a comfortable and swift journey.

Thanks to its convenient location, travel from major transport hubs takes very little time. For instance, the journey from neighbouring Guiyang on a high-speed express takes less than an hour, and from the metropolis of Chongqing, about 1.5 hours. There are also direct rail services from Guangzhou and other major cities in China, allowing tourists to easily include this destination in their itinerary without complex transfers.

The city is served by modern stations accommodating various train categories, including the fastest G and D series. A journey by rail not only saves time but also offers the opportunity to admire the picturesque karst landscapes of Guizhou province from the carriage window.

Bus services in Guizhou province are an excellent alternative to trains, allowing you to enjoy scenic mountain landscapes along the way. The most popular route connects Zunyi with the regional capital, Guiyang: comfortable coaches cover the distance of 150 kilometres in approximately two hours. Departures are frequent, so travellers can plan their schedule flexibly without being strictly tied to specific times.

For those exploring the surroundings, direct trips from the city of Kaili are convenient; the journey takes about four hours covering a distance of 280 kilometres. Regular service is also established with the city of Bijie, located 200 kilometres to the west; travel time averages three hours. The region's modern highways ensure a fast and smooth ride even through challenging terrain.

Travelling by car to Zunyi is a great chance to see the picturesque karst landscapes of Guizhou province at your own pace. The most popular route runs from the city of Guiyang: the distance of about 150 kilometres on the expressway is usually covered in one and a half to two hours. A trip by intercity taxi on this route may cost between 400 and 600 yuan, making this a reasonable option for small groups of travellers.

Guests arriving from the east can travel from Kaili, driving approximately 280 kilometres in four hours on the region's quality roads. From the western side, the route from the city of Bijie is convenient, located 200 kilometres away; travel time is about three hours. Thanks to the modern network of highways connecting these cities, the journey is comfortable, revealing views of green hills and vibrant villages.

Preparing for a trip to Zunyi will help make your journey comfortable and fulfilling, avoiding minor practical difficulties. We have compiled a list of important recommendations useful for every tourist in this region.

1. Clothing and Climate. The weather in Guizhou province is changeable, and humidity is high year-round. Even in summer, it is recommended to carry a light windbreaker and an umbrella, as rain is a frequent occurrence. For walking around the city and its surroundings, choose comfortable, non-slip footwear.
2. Transport Nuances. To move around the city, it is most convenient to use a taxi, which is relatively inexpensive here. However, drivers practically do not speak English, so always carry a hotel card or the name of the desired attraction written in Chinese characters.
3. Financial Matters. The main currency is the Yuan. You can exchange Dollars or Euros only in major bank branches, so it is better to do this in advance or at the airport. The most convenient payment method is via Alipay or WeChat Pay apps linked to your card, as cash is not accepted everywhere, and international cards rarely work.
4. Health and Hygiene. Tap water in China is not suitable for drinking without boiling. Always buy bottled water in shops. It is also worth assembling a small first-aid kit with familiar medicines, as drugs in local pharmacies are sold under Chinese names.
5. Language Barrier. English is not widely spoken in Zunyi. Be sure to download an offline translator to your smartphone with voice input and photo translation functions — this will become your main communication tool in restaurants and shops.
6. Local Etiquette. The Chinese value restraint and politeness. You can greet locals with a slight nod. At the table, do not stick chopsticks vertically into rice (this resembles a funeral ritual) and do not point them at people.
7. What to Avoid. Beware of unlicensed taxi drivers at train stations and the airport, who may inflate prices significantly; use only official cars with a meter. Also, be careful when crossing roads: traffic can be chaotic.
8. Culinary Advice. Local cuisine is famous for its spiciness and sour notes. If you are not accustomed to hot dishes, when ordering food, be sure to say the phrase "bu la" (not spicy) or "wei la" (slightly spicy) to protect your stomach.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to easily navigate the urban environment and get the most pleasure from experiencing the unique atmosphere and hospitality of the local residents.