Arriving at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) marks the start of your visit to this beautiful city. Getting to your hotel or final destination doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide covers your options – from taxis and private transfers to shared shuttles and public transport – outlining what to expect in terms of cost, travel time, and convenience.
Official taxi stands are clearly marked within the arrivals area of the airport. Follow the signs; airport staff are usually available to direct you. Expect a queue during peak hours. Make sure the driver uses the meter, and it’s a good idea to have your destination written in Chinese characters to show them. While most drivers won’t speak much English, showing the address helps ensure you reach the correct location. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during rush hour.
Pre-booked private transfers offer a comfortable and reliable option. Typically, you’ll be met in the arrivals hall by a driver holding a sign with your name. Confirm the meeting point details when you make your booking. Prices are usually fixed at the time of booking, offering peace of mind. This is a good choice if you value convenience and a smooth, direct journey, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a group.
Shared shuttle services and minibuses can be a more economical choice, but they involve multiple stops and can take longer. They’re best suited if you’re on a budget and don’t mind a slightly less direct route. Hangzhou also has a good public transport network, including a metro and buses, connecting the airport to the city center. The metro is often the fastest and most affordable option during off-peak hours, but it may require a transfer depending on your final destination. Buses are the cheapest, but also the slowest.
Travel time to the city center generally ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your chosen mode of transport. During peak hours, it can easily take longer. Prices vary considerably. A taxi will likely cost between 20 and 40 USD, a private transfer between 40 and 70 USD, a shared shuttle between 10 and 25 USD, and public transport (metro/bus) between 2 and 10 USD.
Popular destinations from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport include the city center, West Lake area, and nearby cities like Shaoxing and Ningbo. Travel times to these locations will, of course, be longer, and prices will increase accordingly.
| Option | Typical Time Range | Typical Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | 20-40 |
| Private Transfer | 30-60 minutes | 40-70 |
| Shared Shuttle | 45-90 minutes | 10-25 |
| Train/Metro | 60-90 minutes | 2-10 |
| Bus | 90-120+ minutes | 2-5 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Follow the signs for 'Taxi' within the arrivals hall. Airport staff can also point you in the right direction.
Yes, using the official taxi rank is safe. Ensure the driver uses the meter.
Have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver.
You pre-book a driver who will meet you in the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name.
Generally, yes, but they offer a fixed price and a more comfortable, direct service.
A shared shuttle is a minibus that transports multiple passengers to different destinations, making it a budget-friendly option.
The metro is a fast and affordable option, especially during off-peak hours. Buses are cheaper but slower.
Typically 30-60 minutes, but this can vary significantly depending on traffic.
Around 20-40 USD, but this is an estimate and can change with traffic and distance.
While not always possible, some taxi companies may offer pre-booking services online.
A private transfer is the most convenient option for large amounts of luggage.
Shared shuttles or public transport (metro/bus) are the most economical choices.