Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport is about 27 km from Hangzhou city centre. Transport costs vary depending on your method, destination, and time of day.
By transport type
Metro Line 1 and Line 7: CNY 7-9 per person. Metro Line 1 connects the airport to the city centre via Line 7 transfer. Line 7 runs directly from the airport. The journey to West Lake area takes about 50-65 minutes. Runs approximately 6:30 AM to 10:30-11 PM.
Airport bus: CNY 15-30 depending on the route. Slow but inexpensive.
Taxi: CNY 100-160 to central areas. Meters are standard. After 11 PM, fares increase by roughly 20 percent. Rush hour traffic pushes fares toward the higher end.
Pre-booked transfer: $35-55 USD for a sedan. Minivans and premium vehicles cost more. The price is fixed regardless of traffic.
By destination
| Destination | Taxi (CNY) | Transfer (CNY) |
|---|---|---|
| West Lake area | 80-130 | 280-400 |
| Wulin Square (CBD) | 80-120 | 260-380 |
| Xihu district | 80-130 | 280-400 |
| Gongshu (Grand Canal) | 90-140 | 300-430 |
| Xiaoshan (near airport) | 20-40 | 80-150 |
| Hangzhou East Station | 50-80 | 180-280 |
Hidden costs to consider
- Late-night surcharge: Taxi meters increase after 11 PM. Budget an extra 20 percent.
- Traffic factor: Rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) fares can be significantly higher as the meter runs on both time and distance.
- Language confusion: If a taxi driver misunderstands your destination, the detour costs you money on the meter. Having your address in Chinese reduces this risk.
- Payment friction: Without WeChat Pay or Alipay, you are limited to cash. ATMs are available in arrivals.
Tips for managing costs
- The metro at CNY 7-9 is by far the cheapest option, but factor in walking and possible transfers to your final destination.
- For groups of 3-4 people, a taxi or transfer becomes more cost-effective per person than individual transit fares.
- Cash in CNY is the most reliable payment for taxis. ATMs in the arrivals hall accept international cards.
- Pre-booked transfers include the price for the vehicle, not per person, making them economical for families and small groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport from the city center?
Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport is approximately 27 km from the city center (West Lake area). The metro takes 50-65 minutes, a taxi takes 35-50 minutes depending on traffic.
What is the cheapest way from Hangzhou Airport to the city?
Metro Line 7 at CNY 7-9 ($1-1.25 USD) is the cheapest option. Transfer to Line 1 to reach West Lake and the city center. Runs from approximately 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM.
How much is a taxi from Hangzhou Airport to West Lake?
A metered taxi from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport to the West Lake area costs CNY 80-130 (approximately $11-18 USD). Rush hour fares are higher. After 11 PM, expect a 20% night surcharge.