How to Get from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) to Hangzhou City

Quick Answer

The best way to get from Xiaoshan Airport to downtown Hangzhou for most travelers is the Metro Line 7 (40-50 minutes, 7-9 CNY, direct to Wushan Square near West Lake). This is the most reliable option, especially during Hangzhou's heavy traffic. For convenience with luggage: Taxi or Didi (30-50 minutes, 100-140 CNY to West Lake). For budget with heavy bags: Airport Shuttle Bus Line 1 (50-70 minutes, 20 CNY to Chengzhan Railway Station). Note that only Terminal 3 has metro access; if you arrive at T1 or T2, take the free shuttle bus to T3 first.

Taxi from Xiaoshan Airport to Hangzhou City Center

Taking a taxi from Xiaoshan Airport to downtown Hangzhou is the most convenient door-to-door option. The airport is 27-30 km (17-19 miles) from West Lake, with travel time heavily dependent on traffic: 30-50 minutes normally, but 60-90 minutes during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM). Hangzhou taxis always use meters and are regulated. The expressway toll (10-15 CNY) is usually added to the meter. Taxis are readily available outside all terminals.

Transport Option	Travel Time	Approximate Cost	Best For	Notes
Taxi (metered)	30-90 minutes	100-140 CNY (≈$14-20 USD)	Families, groups, heavy luggage, convenience	Metered, +20% 11 PM-6 AM, + tolls (10-15 CNY)
Didi (ride-hailing)	30-90 minutes	90-130 CNY (≈$13-18 USD)	Tech-savvy, have Chinese SIM/app	App shows price, pickup in designated zone
Private Transfer (pre-booked)	30-60 minutes	200-300 CNY (≈$28-42 USD)	Business, families, groups, peace of mind	Fixed price, English-speaking driver, meets at arrivals

How to Get a Taxi at Xiaoshan Airport

Follow signs for Taxi after exiting baggage claim at any terminal. Hangzhou has organized taxi queues with staff managing the flow. The system is efficient. Tell the attendant your destination or show your hotel address in Chinese characters. Taxis are clean, meters are used, and receipts are provided. Have 150-200 CNY in smaller bills ready, though most taxis accept Alipay/WeChat Pay. The queue at T3 can be 5-15 minutes during peak arrival times. Never use unauthorized taxis that approach you inside the terminal.

Taxi Fare Breakdown & Expressway Tolls

Daytime (6 AM-11 PM): 13 CNY for first 3 km, then 2.5 CNY/km. After 10 km, 3.75 CNY/km. Night (11 PM-6 AM): 20% surcharge. Expressway tolls: 10-15 CNY for the airport expressway, added to meter. A typical fare to West Lake area is 100-140 CNY. To Qianjiang New City: 90-120 CNY. To Binjiang: 70-100 CNY. Always get a receipt—it has taxi number and driver info. I once left a jacket in a Hangzhou taxi; the receipt helped the hotel retrieve it.

Late Night Taxi from Xiaoshan Airport

For late night arrivals (after 11:00 PM), taxis are available with a 20% night surcharge. Expect 120-170 CNY to West Lake. The queue is usually short at night. This is your most reliable option. Didi is also available but may have limited availability after midnight. The airport shuttle buses have reduced frequency. The metro stops around 10:30-11:00 PM. I've arrived at 2 AM and found taxis waiting with minimal wait.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at Xiaoshan on Friday at 6:00 PM. You decide to take a taxi to your hotel near West Lake. You hit rush hour traffic on the Airport Expressway and Zhonghe Road. The 30 km journey takes 85 minutes, costing 135 CNY. You're stressed and tired. Meanwhile, the traveler who took Metro Line 7 paid 8 CNY and arrived in 45 minutes, then walked 10 minutes to their hotel. During Hangzhou's notorious rush hour, the metro is almost always faster than road transport.

Didi (Ride-Hailing) from Xiaoshan Airport

Didi Chuxing operates at Xiaoshan Airport with good availability. Fares are similar to taxis (90-130 CNY to West Lake) but can surge during peak hours. The app provides upfront pricing. You'll need a Chinese SIM card with data, and payment via Alipay/WeChat Pay (linked to Chinese bank account) or international credit card. Pickup is at designated ride-hailing zones—follow signs carefully. Didi offers more car options than taxis, including premium vehicles.

Using Didi as a Foreigner at Xiaoshan: The Reality

Many travel blogs say "Didi is easy." The reality for foreigners: the international Didi app has limited functionality. The Chinese app requires a Chinese phone number. Payment without a Chinese bank card is tricky. The pickup zones can be confusing to find. For tech-savvy travelers with Alipay Tour Pass: it works well. For others: the taxi queue is simpler. I've helped tourists struggling to find their Didi driver at Xiaoshan—the pickup points aren't as well-marked as taxi queues.

Didi vs Taxi: Which is Better from Xiaoshan?

Didi advantages: Upfront pricing, multiple car types (Economy, Comfort, Premium), driver info in app, cashless payment, can schedule rides. Taxi advantages: No app needed, accepts cash, pickup queue is straightforward, drivers know the city better, often faster pickup during peak times. For most tourists: Taxis are simpler. For residents/expats: Didi offers more convenience. During rain or holidays, Didi surge pricing can exceed taxi fares.

Step-by-Step: Booking Didi at Xiaoshan Airport

1. Connect to airport WiFi (requires Chinese number) or use mobile data. 2. Open Didi app. 3. Set pickup to "Xiaoshan Airport T3 - Ride-hailing pickup zone" (or T1/T2). 4. Set destination in Chinese characters. 5. Select car type (Express is cheapest). 6. Confirm booking. 7. Go to designated pickup area (follow signs). 8. Find your car. 9. Show confirmation. Tip: Take a photo of nearby landmarks to help guide your driver. Allow 5-10 minutes for driver to arrive.

Private Transfer from Xiaoshan Airport

Private Airport Transfer Service

Private transfer services can be pre-booked online. Cost: 200-300 CNY (≈$28-42 USD) for a standard sedan to West Lake. This is ideal for business travelers, families with young children, or those wanting guaranteed service. The English-speaking driver meets you at arrivals with a sign, helps with luggage, and provides a stress-free journey. While 2 times the taxi fare, it's worth it for first-timers, large groups, or late arrivals.

When Private Transfer Makes Sense from Xiaoshan

Despite the higher cost, a private transfer is worth it when: 1) You're a family with young children needing car seats. 2) You have multiple large suitcases. 3) You're arriving after a long flight and want zero hassle. 4) You're a group of 3-4 people (splitting makes it reasonable). 5) Your company is paying. 6) You need an English-speaking driver. 7) You're going to a conference or business meeting. The airport is far from the city, so the comfort is appreciated after a flight.

Hotel Pickup Services

Many luxury hotels in Hangzhou offer complimentary airport pickup for guests booking certain room categories. Mid-range hotels may offer it for 150-200 CNY. Always ask when booking. This is often a good deal as the driver knows your exact hotel. Some boutique hotels in West Lake area offer this service. Confirm in advance and have the hotel's Chinese address ready.

Metro Line 7 & Line 1 from Xiaoshan Airport

Metro Line 7 runs directly from Xiaoshan Airport T3 to downtown, reaching Wushan Square in 40-50 minutes for 7-9 CNY. Line 1 connects via transfer at Jiangcun Station, reaching Longxiangqiao (closest to West Lake) in 50-60 minutes. The metro is the most reliable option during rush hours and incredibly affordable. However, only Terminal 3 has direct metro access—if you arrive at T1 or T2, you must take the free shuttle bus to T3 first.

Metro Experience: Terminal 3 Access Only

Only Terminal 3 has the metro station. If you arrive at T1 or T2: Follow signs for "Free Shuttle Bus to T3" or "Inter-terminal Transfer." The free shuttle runs 24/7, every 5-10 minutes, taking 5-10 minutes. Don't try to walk—it's too far. At T3, follow signs to "Metro" or "Subway." The station is underground. Purchase tickets at machines (English available) or use Hangzhou Transportation Card/Alipay/WeChat Pay. Trains run approximately 6:00 AM to 10:30-11:00 PM.

Who Should Take the Metro from Xiaoshan?

The metro is suitable for: 1) Solo travelers with one manageable suitcase/backpack. 2) Those on a tight budget. 3) People staying near a Line 7 or 1 station. 4) Avoiding rush hour traffic. 5) Traveling during off-peak hours. Not suitable for: Families with strollers/young kids, travelers with multiple large bags, elderly/disabled, or those with heavy luggage during rush hour. The metro involves stairs and crowded trains.

Peak Hour Realities on Line 7

During rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM), Line 7 can be crowded, though not as bad as Shanghai's metro. You'll likely get a seat if boarding at the airport (start of line). The train fills up as it approaches the city. The transfer at Jiangcun Station to Line 1 can be busy during peaks. I've taken Line 7 during rush hour with a backpack—it's manageable but with a large suitcase would be challenging.

Airport Shuttle Bus from Xiaoshan Airport

Airport shuttle buses operate 5 lines from HGH to key locations. Fares: 15-20 CNY. Travel time: 40-80 minutes depending on traffic and destination. Buses have luggage compartments, making them better for heavy bags than the metro. They run from early morning until the last flight arrival, with intervals of 15-30 minutes. While slower than metro during light traffic, they're more comfortable for those with luggage and provide door-to-terminal service.

Airport Bus Lines: Key Routes from Xiaoshan

Bus vs Metro: A Reality Check for Xiaoshan

Bus advantages: Luggage space, seats usually available, avoid subway stairs/crowds, scenic above-ground travel. Bus disadvantages: Subject to Hangzhou's notorious traffic, longer travel time, less frequent. Metro advantages: Predictable timing, cheaper, more frequent, unaffected by traffic. Metro disadvantages: Crowded during peaks, stairs, no dedicated luggage space, T3 access only. For travelers with one large suitcase: the bus is often better than struggling on the metro. For backpackers: metro is faster and cheaper.

How to Take the Airport Bus

After baggage claim, follow signs for "Airport Bus" or "Airport Shuttle Bus." Purchase tickets at the booth near the bus stop (cash/Alipay/WeChat Pay). Tell staff your destination; they'll point you to the correct line. Buses are comfortable coaches with air conditioning. Keep your ticket; you may need it to retrieve luggage. Buses make 1-2 stops en route; listen for announcements. Bus stops are at all terminals. Line 1 and 2 are most useful for tourists.

Terminal 1, 2, 3 Transfer Guide

Understanding Xiaoshan's Three Terminals

Xiaoshan Airport has three terminals: T1 (old domestic), T2 (international and some domestic), and T3 (new domestic, opened 2022). T3 is the largest and has metro access. T1 and T2 are adjacent to each other, while T3 is 2 km away. Most domestic flights now use T3, while international flights use T2. Always check your terminal before arrival. The airport website and flight info screens clearly indicate terminals.

Free Inter-terminal Shuttle Bus

Free shuttle buses run 24/7 between all terminals. Frequency: Every 5-10 minutes during day, 10-15 minutes at night. Travel time: 5-10 minutes between T1/T2 and T3. The shuttle stops are clearly marked outside each terminal's arrivals. Buses are green and labeled "Free Inter-terminal Shuttle." No ticket needed—just board. This is essential if you need to reach T3 for metro access or if you arrive at the wrong terminal.

Walking Between Terminals

Not recommended. T1 and T2 are connected by an indoor walkway (5-10 minute walk). T3 is 2 km from T1/T2—too far to walk with luggage. I've seen tourists attempting to walk to T3 and getting lost. Always take the free shuttle. The shuttle is efficient and saves time and energy, especially with luggage.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at T2 on an international flight. You read online that the metro is at T3, so you decide to walk. After 15 minutes dragging your suitcase, you realize T3 is still far away. You're hot and tired. You finally find the shuttle bus stop, but you've wasted 25 minutes. Meanwhile, another traveler took the shuttle immediately and is already on the metro. Always use the free shuttle—it's fast and convenient.

Metro & Bus: Detailed Route & All Stops

Understanding the metro and bus routes helps optimize your journey. Below are all stops for Line 7 and key airport bus lines from Xiaoshan Airport to downtown Hangzhou.

Metro Line 7 (Purple Line) - Full Route from Xiaoshan Airport to Downtown

Metro Line 7 runs from Xiaoshan International Airport to Olympic Sports Center. From airport to Wushan Square takes 40-50 minutes. Key interchange stations in bold:

1. Xiaoshan International Airport (T3 only) - Journey start
2. Yongfeng Road
3. Xingyi Road
4. Building Materials Market
5. Xixing
6. Ouji
7. Jiangcun - Transfer to Line 1 (to West Lake)
8. Xinglong
9. Gongshu
10. Xueyuan Road
11. Xianghu Road
12. Wujiang Road
13. Citizen Center
14. Olympic Sports Center
15. Wushan Square - Close to West Lake, walk 10-15 minutes
16. Wu Hill
17. Zhejiang University Affiliated Children's Hospital
18. ...continues to other districts

Metro Line 1 (Red Line) - Key Stops After Transfer at Jiangcun

After transferring from Line 7 at Jiangcun Station, take Line 1 toward Xianghu:

1. Jiangcun (transfer from Line 7)
2. Qibao
3. Jiubao
4. Qiaosi
5. Pengbu
6. West Lake Cultural Square
7. Wulin Square
8. Longxiangqiao - Closest metro to West Lake (5 min walk)
9. Ding'an Road
10. Chengzhan (Railway Station)
11. ...continues to Xianghu

Airport Bus Line 1: All Stops to Chengzhan Railway Station

Airport Bus Line 1 makes limited stops:

1. Xiaoshan Airport (T1, T2, T3)
2. Kaiyuan Mingdu Hotel
3. Chengnan Bus Station
4. Wu Hill
5. Chengzhan Railway Station (Hangzhou Railway Station) - Final stop

From Chengzhan, you can take metro Line 1 or Line 5, or taxi to your final destination.

Airport Bus Line 2: All Stops to Huanglong Tourist Center

Airport Bus Line 2 (to West Lake area):

1. Xiaoshan Airport (T1, T2, T3)
2. Binjiang (UTown)
3. Zhejiang University (Zijingang Campus)
4. Huanglong Tourist Center - Final stop, near West Lake

Xiaoshan Airport to Hangzhou City Center Route Map

The map below shows the route from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport to the city center. The primary routes are via Metro Line 7, Airport Expressway, and Hongchun Road.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from Xiaoshan Airport to Hangzhou City Center on Google Maps

The distance from Xiaoshan Airport to West Lake is approximately 27-30 km (17-19 miles) via Airport Expressway. The Metro Line 7 route is slightly longer at 35 km (22 miles) but avoids road traffic entirely.

Xiaoshan Airport to City: Ticketing & Costs Comparison

How to Purchase Tickets for Each Option

Taxi: Pay driver cash (CNY) or Alipay/WeChat Pay. Didi: App payment via linked account. Metro: Single-journey tickets from machines (English available) or Hangzhou Transportation Card/Alipay/WeChat Pay. Airport Bus: Ticket counter at bus stop or pay on board (cash/Alipay/WeChat). Private Transfer: Pre-paid online. Have small CNY bills for bus/metro tickets; machines may not accept 50 or 100 CNY notes.

Cost Comparison: What Locals Choose

Locals with light luggage: Metro (7-9 CNY). Locals with heavy luggage/group: Taxi/Didi (split cost). Business travelers: Taxi or private car. Students: Airport bus or metro. As a tourist, expect to pay the same fares as locals for metro/bus/taxi. Private transfers and some hotel pickups are marked up for tourists. Don't stress about saving 50 CNY; choose based on your luggage and comfort needs.

Traveler Experience: Getting to Hangzhou from Xiaoshan Airport

Arriving at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is generally efficient. The airport is modern, clean, and well-signed in English. After exiting baggage claim, you'll see clear signage for transport options. The key challenge is the airport's distance from the city—it's not close. During peak hours (9 AM-12 PM, 6-9 PM), the taxi queue can be 10-20 minutes at T3. The metro is easily accessible from T3 but requires the shuttle from T1/T2.

First-Time Visitor Experience

As a first-timer, Xiaoshan is manageable. Check which terminal you're in. If T1/T2 and you want metro: take free shuttle to T3. For taxi: join the queue. For bus: find the bus stop. Have your hotel address in Chinese characters. Most taxi drivers don't speak English. The airport staff are helpful if you're lost. I've seen many confused tourists at T1/T2 looking for the metro—it's only at T3.

The Reality of Hangzhou Traffic

Hangzhou traffic is heavy, especially around West Lake and during rush hours. The 30 km from airport to West Lake can take 30 minutes at midnight or 90 minutes at 8:30 AM. The metro is unaffected by traffic, making it the most time-reliable option. The area around West Lake is often congested, even outside rush hours. The internet might say "taxi takes 30 minutes," but that's only at optimal times. During holidays and weekends, traffic is much worse.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at Xiaoshan T2 on a Saturday at 4:00 PM. You decide to take a taxi to your hotel near West Lake. You hit weekend traffic on the approach to West Lake. The 30 km journey takes 85 minutes, costing 130 CNY. You're stressed and tired. Meanwhile, the traveler who took the free shuttle to T3, then Metro Line 7 to Wushan Square, paid 8 CNY and arrived in 50 minutes, then walked 10 minutes to their hotel. During Hangzhou's heavy traffic periods, the metro is almost always faster.

Practical Tips & Advice for Xiaoshan Airport to Hangzhou

• Check your terminal: T1/T2 or T3? This affects metro access. Most domestic flights now use T3, international use T2.
• With large luggage (2+ suitcases): Take taxi, Didi, or airport bus. Metro is difficult with large bags, especially during rush hour.
• First-time visitor tip: Have your hotel address written in Chinese characters. Most taxi drivers don't speak English.
• Late night arrival (after 11:00 PM): Taxi is most reliable. Metro stops around 10:30-11:00 PM. Airport night buses run for last flights.
• Early morning flights (before 7:00 AM): Metro Line 7 starts around 6:00 AM from airport—may work for 8:00 AM flights. Taxis are available 24/7.
• With kids/strollers: Taxi or private transfer. Metro has stairs and crowded trains; airport buses are better than metro.
• Business travelers: Taxi or private transfer. The time saved and door-to-door service is worth the cost.
• Cost-saving tip: Metro (7-9 CNY) if with light luggage. Airport bus (15-20 CNY) if with heavy luggage.
• Time-saving tip (non-rush hour): Taxi/Didi (30-50 minutes). Time-saving tip (rush hour): Metro (40-50 minutes, predictable).
• Group travel (3-4 people): One taxi (same price as 1-2 people, split cost). More economical than multiple metro/bus tickets.
• Weekday vs weekend: Weekday rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM) dramatically increase taxi/bus time. Metro is consistently 40-50 minutes.
• Hotel location matters: Hotels near Line 7: metro is best. Hotels near West Lake: consider taxi or Airport Bus Line 2.
• Return trip (city to airport): Allow 60-90 minutes before flight. Taxi can be booked via Didi or hotel. Metro is reliable time-wise.
• Mobile apps: Download Didi, Hangzhou Metro (offline map), Google Translate (offline Chinese), and Alipay/WeChat Pay.
• Payment: Have CNY cash (150-200 in small bills). Most taxis accept Alipay/WeChat Pay. Metro tickets: cash or transportation card.
• SIM cards: Buy at airport (China Mobile/Unicom counters in arrivals) or arrange eSIM before arrival. Essential for connectivity.
• Peak seasons (Chinese holidays, May-Oct): Allow extra time. West Lake area is extremely crowded. Traffic is heavier.
• Rainy season (June-July): Taxi demand surges. Metro becomes more crowded. Consider airport bus.
• Accessibility: Metro has elevators at Xiaoshan Airport station. Taxis are most accessible. Airport buses have steps.
• Luggage storage: Available at airport if you want to explore before heading downtown. Then take metro without luggage.
• Tipping: Not expected in China. Taxi: round up fare (e.g., 98 to 100). Porters: 5-10 CNY per bag if they help.
• Scams: Ignore unofficial taxi touts inside terminal. Only use official taxi queue. No "special tourist price" for taxis.

Frequently Asked Questions: Xiaoshan Airport to Hangzhou City Center