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explore Beihai Guides
Cultural Etiquette in Beihai: What Not to Do (2026)
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Beihai Name Origins & Local Words (2026)
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Typical Souvenirs from Beihai (2026)
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First Time in Beihai: Complete Guide 2026
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Beihai Nightlife Guide (2026)
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Best Day Trips from Beihai (2026)
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Beihai Airport to City Center (2026)
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Beihai Hidden Gems (2026)
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Beihai on a Budget: Tips 2026
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Where to Stay in Beihai (2026)
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bar_chart Trends in Beihai
Beihai Airport to City Center (2026)
Beihai Fucheng Airport (BHY) is about 25 kilometers northeast of the city center. It serves both domestic and a few international flights, with a single terminal that is compac… ✈️ Airport Overview
Beihai Fucheng Airport (BHY) is about 25 kilometers northeast of the city center. It serves both domestic and a few international flights, with a single terminal that is compact and easy to navigate.
🚌 Airport Shuttle Bus
The most affordable option is the airport shuttle bus, which costs 20 CNY per person and takes about 40 minutes. Buses run every 30 minutes from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, dropping you at Beihai Railway Station and the Silver Beach area.
🚕 Taxi Tips and Scams
Taxis from the airport to the city center cost around 80 to 100 CNY and take 30 minutes. Avoid drivers who refuse to use the meter or quote flat rates above 120 CNY. Always insist on the meter or use a ride-hailing app like Didi for a transparent price.
🚇 Future Metro Plans
As of 2026, Beihai does not have a metro system, but a light rail line connecting the airport to the city center is under construction and expected to open by 2028. For now, buses and taxis remain the primary options.
🚗 Ride-Hailing Apps
Didi Chuxing is widely available and often cheaper than taxis, with fares around 60 to 80 CNY to the city center. Use the app to book a ride from the designated pickup zone outside the arrivals hall. Payment is via Alipay or WeChat Pay.
🚐 Private Transfer Services
Pre-booked private transfers cost 150 to 200 CNY and offer door-to-door convenience. Companies like Ctrip and Klook provide reliable options with English-speaking drivers. This is ideal for groups or those with heavy luggage.
🚍 Public Bus Routes
Local public buses 21 and 22 connect the airport to downtown for just 2 CNY, but they take over an hour and run infrequently. This option is best for budget travelers with light bags and plenty of time.
💡 Booking Tips
For the best experience, book a Didi or private transfer in advance during peak hours to avoid long waits. If taking the shuttle, have exact change or use mobile payment. Avoid exchanging money at the airport; use ATMs in the city for better rates.
yeah the didi thing is solid advice. just make sure your phone has data working before you land, the airport wifi is spotty and you'll be stuck trying to connect while everyone else grabs their bags. i usually download the offline map for beihai on alipay maps just in case, saves a headache
another tip for the didi pickup zone - it's actually past the taxi line, not right at the exit. you'll see a bunch of drivers holding signs, walk past them to the covered waiting area. i stood at the wrong spot for 10 mins once like an idiot
honestly the public bus route is not worth it unless you're really trying to save every yuan. i tried bus 22 once and it took almost 90 minutes because it loops through a bunch of random villages before hitting downtown. the 2 yuan fare is nice but you'll regret it if you're carrying a suitcase on those bumpy roads
one thing the guide didn't mention is the shared minivan service at the airport exit. they charge about 30 yuan per person and leave when full, so it's faster than the shuttle and cheaper than a taxi. just look for the guys holding signs that say "市区" near the parking lot. they'll drop you anywhere along the main road but not to specific hotels
if you're heading to silver beach area, the shuttle is actually decent because it goes straight there without the downtown detour. but for laojie or the train station, didi is the move every time
the shuttle bus is fine but honestly just use didi. the bus stop at the airport can be a bit confusing to find if you're not familiar with it, and the 40 minute estimate is optimistic with traffic. i usually pay around 65 yuan to get to laojie area, the old street, and it's way less hassle than figuring out the bus schedule
Cultural Etiquette in Beihai: What Not to Do (2026)
When meeting locals, a simple nod or handshake is fine, but avoid a firm grip; a light handshake is preferred. Address people by their surname plus a title like 'xiansheng' (Mr… 🙏 Greeting Customs
When meeting locals, a simple nod or handshake is fine, but avoid a firm grip; a light handshake is preferred. Address people by their surname plus a title like 'xiansheng' (Mr.) or 'nvshi' (Ms.) unless invited to use first names. Smiling is appreciated, but overly enthusiastic gestures may feel intrusive.
🏯 Temple Rules
At temples such as the Puxia Temple or the Beihai Buddhist Temple, dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes before entering prayer halls, and never point your feet at Buddha statues. Photography is often banned inside, so look for signs or ask a monk before taking pictures.
🥢 Dining Etiquette
Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles incense at a funeral. When sharing dishes, use the serving spoon or the opposite end of your chopsticks to pick food. Tipping is not customary in Beihai; instead, round up the bill or leave small change at upscale restaurants.
👕 Dress Code
Casual wear is fine for beaches and streets, but avoid swimwear outside the shore. For nicer restaurants or evening events, men should wear collared shirts and women a sundress or blouse. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Silver Beach, but sandals are fine for the boardwalk.
🤫 Public Behavior
Keep your voice low in public spaces; loud talking is considered rude, especially on buses or in queues. When taking photos of locals, especially fishermen or elders, ask permission first. In queues, wait your turn patiently, as pushing ahead will draw disapproving looks.
🚶 Navigating Streets
When crossing roads, use pedestrian crossings and obey traffic signals, but also watch for scooters that may ignore red lights. On sidewalks, keep to the right, and avoid stopping abruptly in crowded areas like the Old Street. If you need directions, approach a shopkeeper or police officer, as they are used to tourists.
🎁 Gift Giving
If invited to a local home, bring a small gift like fruit or pastries from a shop such as Beihai Old Street's dessert stalls. Present gifts with both hands, and expect the host to set them aside without opening immediately. Avoid giving clocks or white flowers, as they are associated with funerals.
💬 Language Tips
Learning a few phrases in Mandarin, like 'xie xie' (thank you) and 'ni hao' (hello), goes a long way. Many locals speak little English, so have a translation app ready for menus or directions. Speak slowly and clearly, and never shout; raising your voice only creates barriers.
honestly the part about asking before photoing fishermen is key, i learned that the hard way near the pier at dusk. they're usually fine with it, but a quick nod and point at your camera first makes all the difference, and sometimes they'll even pose for you if you're respectful.
for the squid jerky thing someone mentioned, that's actually a weizhou island specialty, but in the city proper, look for the little stalls selling "shrimp cakes" (xia bing) near the old street entrance. they're crispy, cheap, and way better than the touristy ones further in, plus the vendors there are used to foreigners and won't push you to buy more.
one thing nobody's said yet: if you're taking a taxi from the train station, don't get in the first one that honks at you. walk a bit further to the official rank, the drivers there actually use the meter, the others will try to charge you triple for the beach route.
Good tips overall, especially the temple dress code, I got caught out at Puxia Temple once and had to borrow a sarong from the gate. One thing I'd add is to not be surprised if locals stare a bit on the Old Street, it's not rude, just curiosity, a quick smile usually breaks the ice. Also, for the gift giving part, if you bring something like a nice box of tea instead of pastries, it's seen as a bit more thoughtful, and they'll definitely appreciate it more than something from a tourist stall.
The chopstick rule is spot on, I've seen tourists get some serious side-eye for that at local seafood spots. One thing the guide doesn't mention: if you're eating at a dai pai dong style stall near the pier, it's totally fine to just grab your own bowl and sit wherever, but don't start eating until your whole group is seated, it's a small courtesy that goes a long way.
Also, when you're on the beach at Silver Beach, those women walking around with baskets of fresh oysters and corn aren't just selling snacks, they're offering to grill them on the spot. It's a great local experience, but agree on the price before they start cooking, and don't be shy to haggle a little, it's expected and done with a smile. For getting around, I'd add that the public e-bike rentals are cheap and easy, but always wear the helmet they provide, the traffic police do check near the Old Street on weekends.