Destination China

How to Travel in China?

Air

Currently there are nine state airlines, among these Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and Hainan Airlines are the four largest Airlines. In addition, there are also nearly 10 civilian-run airlines that have started up in about 2006 such as Spring International, Juneyao Airlines, Eaststar Airlines, United Eagle Airlines and OK Airlines. They all provide travelers with modern facilities and world-class aircraft.

By the end of 2006, there are more than 200 airports in China serving 1,336 regular air routes with nearly 1, 000 aircraft taking off and landing every day. With the hub of air travel based in Beijing, the air traffic connects 140 domestic cities. Besides, 268 international air routes operated by 15 Airlines connect 91 international cities in 42 countries. Eighty-six overseas airlines also operate air routes to China.

Train

Due to the size and sheer numbers of people that travel throughout China, the country does have a vast and reliable train service. There are many popular train routes between popular destinations such as Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guilin and Hangzhou.

Recently China has also launch train services between more exotic locations such as the well-publicised Beijing / Tibet train service. Tickets are easy to obtain, however travel by train close to any public holidays should be avoided.

Train travel between destinations such as Shanghai / Hangzhou, Shanghai / Nanjing and Beijing / Tianjin are highly recommended as these routes are services by modern, high speed trans.

There are also some high-end train services that are coming online, such as the Tangula that travels between Beijing / Lhasha / Lijiang.

Coach Travel

There are many coach services between major cities in China, however due to the sheer distance involved in travelling by road, this is only recommended for the more adventurous traveller.