Hangzhou Airport to City | Metro, Taxi, Bus & Transfer Guide

If you’re flying to Hangzhou, your journey will begin at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. As a Malaysian traveller, I found the airport clean and well-organised, making arrival smooth and comfortable. Getting from the airport to the city centre is also very convenient, with several transport options available to suit different budgets and travel styles.

Here’s a simple guide to the best ways for Malaysian travellers to get from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport to the city centre. I’ve converted the costs into Ringgit Malaysia (RM) for easier reference.

Best Ways to Get from Hangzhou Airport to City

Source: Skytrax

🚇 Metro (Line 19)

• Duration: 35–45 minutes
• Cost: RM4–6
• Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Best for: Solo or budget travellers
• Notes: A fast and affordable way to reach Hangzhou East Railway Station and the CBD directly.

🚇 Metro (Line 7)

• Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Cost: RM4–5
• Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Best for: Travellers heading to Qianjiang New Town or the Olympic Sports Center area.

🚇 Metro (Line 1 via transfer)

• Duration: 50–70 minutes
• Cost: RM4–5
• Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
• Best for: Budget travellers who don’t mind transfers
• Notes: Requires a transfer from Line 7 or Line 19.

🚌 Airport Shuttle Bus

• Duration: 50–70 minutes
• Cost: RM13
• Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
• Best for: Budget travellers
• Notes: Direct service to Wulin Square, a central spot in Hangzhou.

🚕 Taxi / Didi

• Duration: 40–60 minutes
• Cost: RM75–115
• Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Best for: Families or late-night arrivals
• Notes: Use the Didi app for cashless rides and direct drop-off at your hotel.

🚐 Private Transfer

• Duration: 40–60 minutes
• Cost: RM125+
• Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Best for: Groups, families, or travellers with heavy luggage
• Notes: Pre-booking ensures a hassle-free ride with a driver waiting for you at arrivals.

🚙 Car Rental

• Duration: Varies
• Cost: RM190+
• Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
• Best for: Long stays or road trips
• Notes: You’ll need a valid driving licence and a deposit.

🚆 By Metro – Getting from Hangzhou Airport to the City

As a Malaysian traveller, I found that taking the metro is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport to downtown Hangzhou. The stations are well signposted, and it’s very convenient even if it’s your first time here.

🛤️ Train Lines

1. Line 19 (Most Recommended)
Line 19 departs from B1 Level of Terminal 4. It’s the fastest choice with minimal transfers, and it can take you directly to the CBD or West Lake area.

2. Line 7
Also departing from B1 Level, sharing the same entrance with Line 19. This line is a good option if you’re heading to Qianjiang New Town, Olympic Sports Center, or Citizen Center.

3. Combined Route (Line 7/19 + Line 1)
If your destination is Wulin Square or Hubin, you can transfer to Line 1 at Citizen Center or Qianjiang Road.

📍 Routes & Key Stops

1. Line 19 (Direct Route)
Stops include: Yongsheng Road → Xiaoshan International Airport → Hangzhou East Railway Station → West Lake Cultural Square → Shentangqiao → West Railway Station → Tiaoxi.

2. Line 7 Route
Stops include: Xiaoshan International Airport → Olympic Sports Center → Citizen Center → Jiangcheng Road → Wushan Square.
You can transfer to Line 2 or Line 4 for easy access to West Lake or the CBD.

3. Line 7/19 + Line 1 Route
Transfer at Qianjiang Road or Citizen Center to Line 1, then continue to Wulin Square, Fengqi Road, or Longxiangqiao (close to West Lake).

🕒 Operating Hours

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

• Price: RM4–6 (¥6–9)
• How to Buy:
• • Ticket kiosks (accepts cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay)
  • Staffed counters
  • Hangzhou Metro App / Alipay / WeChat QR code

👉 If you plan to take multiple metro rides in a day, consider the Hangzhou Metro Day Pass at about RM10 (¥15), valid for unlimited rides within 24 hours.

🧳 Pros & Ideal Travellers

✅ Great for: solo travellers, business travellers, budget-conscious visitors.

✅ Benefits:

• Avoids traffic jams.
• Connects directly to West Lake, CBD, and Hangzhou East Railway Station.
• Perfect if you’re travelling light.

⚠️ Things to Note:

• If you’re arriving late at night, taxis, Didi, or private transfers are better options.
• Peak hours (8–9 AM and 5–7 PM) can be crowded.

🚌 By Airport Bus – Getting from Hangzhou Airport to the City

As a Malaysian traveller, I found the Hangzhou Airport Shuttle Bus to be a reliable and budget-friendly way to reach the city. The Hangzhou Airport Coach Station operates more than 30 routes, connecting not only Hangzhou but also many towns and counties across Zhejiang province.

📍 Route & Key Stops

The most useful routes for visitors are:

• To Wulin Square (Downtown Hangzhou) – the most popular option, especially if you’re staying near West Lake, Hubin, or Qinghefang.
• To Hangzhou East Railway Station – convenient if you’re catching a high-speed train.
• Major Hotels in the City – some buses stop directly at well-known hotels, making transfers easier.

🚩 Tip: If your hotel is around Wulin Square, Hubin, or Qinghefang, you can usually walk from the drop-off point.

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

• To Wulin Square: RM13 (¥20)
• To Hangzhou East Railway Station: RM18 (¥28)

Where to Buy:

• Airport shuttle counters
• Self-service ticket machines
• Some routes accept Alipay / WeChat QR code payment when boarding

👍 Pros & Ideal Travellers

✅ Great for: budget travellers, families with kids, or those with luggage.

✅ Benefits:

• Comfortable, spacious seats
• A good option if you land late and don’t want to figure out metro transfers

⚠️ Things to Note

• Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so the journey may take longer.
• Always check the last bus timing if your flight lands close to midnight.
• Travel time (50–70 minutes) is slightly longer compared to the metro.

🚕 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing – Getting from Hangzhou Airport to the City

Source: Zhejiang - China Daily

As a Malaysian traveller, I find taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app like Didi the most convenient option if you want a direct, door-to-door ride after landing in Hangzhou. It saves you from the hassle of transfers, especially if you’re carrying luggage or arriving late at night.

🚖 Where to Get a Taxi or Book a Ride

• Official Taxi Stands: Located just outside the arrivals hall on Level 1 (Ground Level). Look out for signs marked “Taxi 出租车”.
• Ride-Hailing (Didi): Download and set up the Didi app before your trip. It works similarly to Grab in Malaysia, with upfront fare estimates.

💸 Fare Estimates & Cost Range

• Taxi: RM75–115 (¥120–180) to most areas in downtown Hangzhou.
• Didi: Around the same price range, with the advantage of seeing the fare upfront in the app.

🕒 Duration & Traffic Considerations

• Normal traffic: 40–60 minutes
• Peak hours: Can take up to 60–90 minutes

🧳 Who It’s Best For

✅ Families travelling with kids
✅ Travellers with heavy or multiple pieces of luggage
✅ First-time visitors who prefer a simple, direct option
✅ Late-night arrivals when buses and metro services are limited

⚠️ Things to Watch Out For

• Avoid unofficial drivers or touts who may approach you inside the arrivals hall.
• If using Didi, always double-check the car plate number before boarding to ensure it matches the booking.

🚗 By Private Airport Transfer – Getting from Hangzhou Airport to the City

Source: Asia Car Service

As a Malaysian traveller, I found booking a private airport transfer to be one of the most stress-free ways to get from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport to the city. A driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall, assist with your luggage, and send you straight to your hotel without any hassle.

🕒 Duration & Availability

• Travel Time: Around 40–60 minutes in normal traffic, and up to 60–90 minutes during peak hours.
• Availability: Available 24/7, making it perfect for early morning or late-night flights.

💸 Cost

• Average Fare: RM125–185 (¥200–300), depending on the type of car you book.

👍 Perks

✅ Door-to-door convenience with no transfers
✅ Fixed, transparent pricing (no surprises)
✅ Ideal for families, groups, or travellers with heavy luggage
✅ Peace of mind knowing your driver will be waiting even if your flight is delayed

⚠️ Considerations

• Costs more than the metro or shuttle bus
• Best to book at least 12–24 hours in advance to secure your ride

🚘 By Car Rental – Getting from Hangzhou Airport to the City

As a Malaysian traveller, renting a car at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport can be a good option if you’re planning a longer stay, a road trip around Zhejiang, or simply prefer the flexibility of driving on your own schedule. Cars can be picked up directly at the airport, making it convenient right after you land.

🚙 Where to Rent

• Car rental counters at the Arrival Hall or Car Rental Centre
• Online pre-booking (e.g. via Trip.com) for a smoother pickup and guaranteed availability

🕒 Duration & Availability

• Travel Time to City Centre: 40–60 minutes under normal traffic; 60–90 minutes during peak hours
• Availability: Car rental services are available 24/7 for both pickup and return

💸 Cost

• From RM190+ per day (¥300/day)
• Additional expenses: fuel, tolls, and a refundable deposit

👍 Perks

✅ Ideal for long stays, road trips, or business travellers
✅ Full privacy and flexibility to explore areas outside Hangzhou
✅ Comfortable for families or groups who prefer self-driving

⚠️ Things to Note

• A valid Chinese driving licence is required (an international licence is not accepted)
• Hangzhou traffic can be busy, so it’s best for those confident driving in China
• Recommended only if you plan to travel beyond the city limits, as the metro and taxis are usually easier for city travel

Which Option is Best for You?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Kids

Best choices: Taxi or Private Airport Transfer
Both options are door-to-door, making it easier when travelling with strollers and multiple bags. Some private transfer services even provide child seats on request, which is great peace of mind for parents.

💸 Budget Travellers

Best choices: Airport Shuttle Bus or Metro Line 19
These are the most affordable options, from around RM4–13 per person, reliable and convenient if you’re travelling light and don’t mind a slightly longer journey.

🚄 Solo or Business Travellers

Best choice: Metro Line 19
Quick, air-conditioned, and very cost-friendly at just RM4–6, this line connects directly to Hangzhou East Railway Station and the CBD, making it ideal for both meetings and sightseeing.

🌙 Late-night Arrivals

Best choices: Taxi, Didi Ride-hailing, or Private Transfer
All these operate 24/7, so you won’t need to worry about missing the last metro or bus if your flight lands after midnight.

🛣️ Road Trippers

Best choice: Car Rental
Starting from RM190+ per day, renting a car is perfect if you want to explore beyond Hangzhou, such as taking scenic drives to Wuzhen, Moganshan, or other towns in Zhejiang province.