Arriving at Hohhot Baita International Airport (HET) and getting to your hotel or onward destination doesn’t have to be stressful. Several options are available, ranging from convenient door-to-door transfers to more budget-friendly public transport. Understanding your choices in terms of cost, travel time, and comfort will help you start your trip smoothly.
Official taxi stands are generally well-signposted within the arrivals area of the airport. Look for clearly marked booths or designated pickup zones. Airport taxis are usually metered, but it’s always a good idea to confirm with the driver *before* starting your journey that the meter will be used. Have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver, as language barriers can sometimes occur. Expect the trip to the city center to take around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
For a hassle-free experience, especially if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or arriving late at night, consider a pre-booked private transfer. These services typically involve a driver meeting you inside the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name. When booking, confirm the meeting point details and ensure the price is all-inclusive – covering the vehicle, driver, and any airport fees. Private transfers generally cost between 30 and 60 USD, depending on the vehicle type and distance to your destination.
Shared shuttle services and minibuses can be a more economical option, particularly if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget. These usually operate on fixed routes and may involve multiple stops, extending your travel time. Public transport, including buses and potentially a metro or train connection, offers the lowest cost but requires navigating the local system and may not be convenient with luggage. A bus to the city center could take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour.
Travel times to the city center are heavily influenced by the time of day. Rush hour traffic can significantly increase journey durations. Consider this when choosing your transport method, especially if you have a time-sensitive appointment. Popular destinations from the airport include the city center, Saihan District, and nearby cities like Baotou and Ordos.
| Option | Typical Time | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | 20-40 |
| Private Transfer | 30-60 minutes | 30-60 |
| Shared Shuttle | 45-90 minutes | 10-25 |
| Train/Metro | 60-120 minutes | 5-15 |
| Bus | 45-75+ minutes | 2-5 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Follow the signs for 'Taxi' or 'Transportation' within the arrivals hall. Official taxi stands are clearly marked.
Yes, using official airport taxis is generally safe. Always confirm the driver will use the meter or agree on a price beforehand.
Have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver. This will help avoid misunderstandings.
A driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name. Confirm the meeting point details when you book.
Yes, private transfers are usually more expensive, but offer a more comfortable and convenient experience.
A shared shuttle is a minibus that transports multiple passengers to different destinations, making it a budget-friendly option.
The bus journey to the city center can take between 45 minutes and over an hour, depending on traffic and the route.
Public transport can be challenging with a lot of luggage, especially during peak hours.
A taxi to the city center typically costs between 20 and 40 USD, depending on traffic and the exact location.
Credit card acceptance varies. It’s best to have some local currency (Chinese Yuan) on hand for taxis and buses.
Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, is the biggest factor affecting travel time.
Airport information desks can provide details on bus routes and schedules to the city center.