Taizhou is accessible via Taizhou Luqiao Airport (HYN) for domestic flights, high-speed trains to Taizhou Railway Station, or buses for regional travel. Most international travelers arrive via nearby Hangzhou or Ningbo airports, then transfer.
By Air:
Taizhou Luqiao Airport (HYN): Located about 12 km (8 miles) southeast of Jiaojiang district (Taizhou’s urban center), the airport primarily serves domestic routes, with direct flights from major Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu.
To the City Center:
- Airport Shuttle Bus: The airport offers shuttle services that connect passengers to important locations in downtown Taizhou. You can find the designated shuttle bus stop and ticket counter just outside the arrivals hall—look for the signs. Please note that there is limited luggage space on the shuttles, and they can become crowded during peak times.
Main Routes (Please confirm the latest schedule and route information upon arrival): To Jiaojiang: The shuttle either terminates at the Taizhou Central Bus Station in Jiaojiang or makes stops at key downtown locations, such as the City Government and Xingxing Square. To Huangyan: The shuttle either terminates at the Huangyan Bus Center or stops at key downtown locations.
Approximately ¥10-20. The shuttle services align with flight schedules but do not operate 24/7, so be sure to verify the details when you arrive.
- Public Bus (Cheapest but Least Convenient):
Public buses stop near the airport exit, but you will need to walk a short distance to reach them. Generally, the best route is to take a bus to the Luqiao transit hub, which includes destinations like Taizhou South Bus Station or Luqiao South Station. From there, you can transfer to buses heading to Jiaojiang (such as Bus 903 or 126) or Huangyan (such as Bus 902).
Keep in mind that with transfers and waiting times, the journey can take over 1.5 hours. It can be particularly challenging if you have large bags. The fare typically ranges from ¥2 to ¥6 per segment, depending on whether it is a flat rate or a distance-based rate.
This option is best for travelers who are familiar with the routes, have minimal luggage, and can afford ample time for the journey. If you’re carrying luggage, are short on time, or are not well-acquainted with the local buses, consider alternative transportation options.
- Taxi (Most Convenient & Fastest): Designated taxi queue is located outside the arrivals hall exit. The fare ranges from ¥30 to ¥70, taking 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and destination. Cash, WeChat Pay, and Alipay are accepted.
- Ride-Hailing Services: Designated ride-hailing parking/waiting zones (follow airport signs or app instructions). Do not use the taxi queue area. Fare estimate shown in app; often slightly cheaper than taxis.
By Train:
Taizhou Railway Station: Located in Huangyan District, this is one of the main railway stations in the city. It is approximately 12 km (8 miles) from the city center. The station serves high-speed rail routes (G-series and D-series) that connect Taizhou with major cities, including Shanghai (with a journey time of as low as 2.5 hours), Hangzhou (1.5 to 2 hours), and Shenzhen. A taxi ride from the station to downtown takes about 15 minutes and costs approximately 25 RMB.
Taizhou West Railway Station, situated in the Huangyan District, is the largest railway station in the city. It connects Taizhou to numerous cities through high-speed rail, including direct services to Hangzhou. Since the station is located further from the city center, a taxi ride to downtown is more expensive, costing approximately 60 RMB for a 35-minute journey.
By Bus:
For travelers coming from nearby cities, long-distance buses are an affordable option. Jiaojiang Bus Station serves regional routes from Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Shanghai. Buses are budget-friendly; however, they are less foreigner-friendly and may be difficult to navigate without knowing the language.
Taizhou’s Jiaojiang district is walkable for markets and riverside areas, but attractions like Shenxianju Scenic Area or Tiantai Mountain require buses, taxis, or Didi.
The Taizhou Tong Card is a rechargeable smart card offering discounted fares on all public buses across Taizhou’s districts. You need to pay a ¥20 deposit (refundable if returned) plus an initial top-up of ¥50–100.
Buy it at major bus stations (e.g., Taizhou Central Bus Station in Jiaojiang, Huangyan Bus Center, or Luqiao South Station) or select convenience stores (like Century Mart). To use, simply tap the card on the electronic validator when boarding the bus—no need to tap again when exiting. Note: It does not work for taxis, ride-hailing, or trains.
Buses: The bus network is extensive, covering all districts, including Jiaojiang, Huangyan, and Luqiao. However, navigating the routes can be challenging since the bus stops are not labeled in English. You can use apps like Amaps to help with navigation.
There are three types of buses available: regular buses (fares range from ¥2 to ¥6), rapid buses (similar to BRT lines, with slightly higher fares), and night buses (which have limited routes). During peak hours, buses typically arrive every 10 to 20 minutes, while off-peak times may see intervals of 20 to 40 minutes. Service is less frequent in suburban areas.
Taxis have a metered fare system, with short rides costing between CNY 10 and CNY 30. There is a night surcharge of 20% from 10 PM to 5 AM. You can hail a taxi or book one via Didi, accommodating up to 4 passengers.
Ride-Shares: book via the Didi Chuxing app, slightly cheaper than taxis, cashless/cash. Surge during peak times; English interface.
Bike rentals are available through Meituan (yellow) and HelloBike (blue) apps (Meituan and Alipay). Scan the QR code to unlock the bike, and when you're done, park it in a designated area and complete the ride in the app.