How to Travel in Southern China

Posted by Nick on September 21, 2009

If you are taking a trip to Southern China you will have a lot of options when it comes to transportation. Southern China is a large area that you can explore on your own on a rented bicycle or by taking a train through the region. While larger cities in the region have more transportation options for travelers, it is still easy to travel to the smaller areas of the region.

Arrive in Southern China by plane. For international flights, the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport are the two entry airports. When you arrive at the airport you will need to have a valid passport and your tourist visa to get through customs. You cannot get a tourist visa once you arrive so be sure to take care of this at the Chinese embassy location nearest you before you leave your home country. See the Chinese embassy website for office locations.

Use a taxi service or public bus if you are traveling in cities in Southern China. While most cities have a bus system it can be quicker to use a taxi if you are in hurry. Taxis do generally cost a little bit more than bus service though. You may even find some pedicabs that can take you around the area you are visiting.

Travel by train through Southern China. Chinese railway service runs several routes through Southern China, including international trains. There are standard trains, express trains and tourist trains. The trains stop in all of the major cities as well as some of the smaller areas in Southern China.

Rent a bicycle from a hotel or tourist shop and see Southern China by bike. Keep in mind that rural roads can be bumpy and that you will need a good map for your trip.

Take a ferry or river boat to travel by water. Along the Changjiang River and the Lijiang River there are always boats available to transport travelers. For ferry rides, you should go to the Zhoutouzui Ferry Pier to get a current schedule and arrange for transport.