How to Get to Yiwu Market: Complete Travel Guide for Global Buyers

1. Where Is Yiwu Located?

The Yiwu Market, officially known as the Yiwu International Trade City (also called Futian Market or Yiwu International Trade Mart), is the world’s largest wholesale market for small commodities. It is located in Yiwu City, Zhejiang Province, China.

• Province: Zhejiang (eastern China, south of Shanghai)
• City: Yiwu (a county-level city under Jinhua prefecture)
• Main Area: Primarily along Chouzhou North Road (稠州北路) and surrounding streets in the central part of Yiwu.

The market is a massive complex divided into 5 districts, spanning over 4 million square meters with more than 75,000 booths. It’s easily recognizable and well-known locally—no exact street number is always needed for taxis, as saying “Yiwu International Trade City” or showing the Chinese name “义乌国际商贸城” will get you there.

2. Best Ways to Get to Yiwu Market

Most international buyers do not travel directly to Yiwu as a first stop.

Instead, they arrive in China through major international gateway cities, then continue to Yiwu by high-speed train or domestic flight.China has several well-connected international airports with frequent global routes. Choosing the right entry city can help reduce total travel time and make your Yiwu sourcing trip more efficient.

2.1 Getting to Yiwu by High-Speed Train (Most Popular Option)

For most international wholesale buyers visiting Yiwu Market, high-speed train (G-series or D-series) is the fastest, most convenient, and cost-effective choice—especially for first-time visitors.

Key Routes and Travel Times:

• From Shanghai: About 2–2.5 hours (Shanghai Hongqiao Station → Yiwu Station). Direct trains run frequently.
• From Hangzhou: Only 1–1.5 hours (Hangzhou East Station → Yiwu Station). Trains depart every 15–30 minutes during peak hours.

Why Wholesale Buyers Prefer the Train:

• Frequent Schedules: Dozens of trains daily, so delays or missed connections won’t disrupt your tight sourcing itinerary.
• Flexible Luggage Allowance: No strict weight limits like airlines—perfect for carrying samples, catalogs, or returning with purchased goods.
• Easy Arrival Transfer: Yiwu Railway Station is just 10–15 minutes by taxi or Didi (ride-hailing) to the International Trade City (Futian Market). Fares are typically ¥20–40.
• Comfort and Reliability: Clean, modern trains with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and ample space—ideal for reviewing supplier lists or resting after a long flight.

2.2 Getting to Yiwu by Air (For Long-Distance Travelers)

Yiwu has its own airport (Yiwu Airport – YIW), making it accessible for buyers coming from farther within China or connecting internationally.

Main Domestic Connections:

• Direct flights from major cities including Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xiamen, and Kunming (1.5–3 hours flight time).

Common Routes for International Buyers:

• Fly into Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) → connect to a short domestic flight to Yiwu (about 1–1.5 hours).
• Some buyers also route through Hangzhou Xiaoshan (HGH), then take a 1-hour train or shuttle.

Who Should Choose Flying:

• Buyers with tight schedules or coming from distant Chinese cities.
• Those with higher budgets willing to pay for time savings.

Important Considerations:

• Flight frequency is much lower than high-speed trains (only a few daily per route).
• Tickets sell out quickly during busy sourcing seasons—book at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
• Airport to market transfer takes 30–40 minutes by taxi (¥80–120).

For most overseas wholesale buyers, flying into Shanghai/Hangzhou and switching to train remains more practical than direct international connections.

2.3 Getting to Yiwu by Bus or Car

Long-Distance Bus:

• Available from nearby cities like Hangzhou, Ningbo, or Shanghai.
• Cheaper but slower (3–5 hours) and less comfortable—suitable mainly for budget-conscious domestic buyers.

Self-Driving or Private Car:

• Convenient if you’re already based in eastern China and traveling with a team or heavy equipment.
• Highways are excellent, and parking is available near the market.

Not Recommended for First-Time Overseas Buyers:

• Language barriers, navigation challenges, and traffic can add unnecessary stress.
• Public high-speed trains offer far better reliability and ease for international visitors focused on efficient sourcing trips.

Pro Tip: No matter how you arrive, download the Didi app (China’s Uber) and have your hotel or market address ready in Chinese for smooth transfers. Safe travels and successful sourcing in Yiwu!

Need help arranging transportation, hotel bookings, or market-guided sourcing services in Yiwu?

Contact us: info@yiwuagent.com, Tel/ WhatsApp: +86-13566736829

3. How to Buy Tickets in China?

3.1 Domestic Flights

• Online Booking: Foreigners can book domestic flights through Chinese travel platforms like com Official Site‎‎ | Travel Deals and Promotions, 携程旅行网:酒店预订,机票预订查询,旅游度假,商旅管理, or airline websites (Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, etc.). These platforms support English and accept international credit cards.

• Travel Agencies: Many local travel agencies in your home country or in China can book tickets on your behalf. This is useful if you encounter payment or ID verification issues online.
• At the Airport: Tickets can be purchased at airline counters, but availability may be limited, especially during peak seasons. You must present your passport.

3.2 High-Speed Train Tickets

• 12306.cn Official Website: China’s official railway website allows foreigners to book tickets after registering with a passport. English support is limited, so a local agent or travel platform is often easier.

• Travel Platforms: Websites like Trip.com, Ctrip, and Fliggy can book HSR tickets for foreigners in English and handle payment with international cards.
• At the Station: You can buy tickets at train stations with a passport. It’s recommended to arrive early, especially during holidays, as trains can sell out quickly.
• Delivery & Pickup: Some platforms allow you to pick up tickets at a station counter or even request mobile e-tickets where supported.

3.3 Tips for Smooth Booking

• Passport Required: Unlike domestic travelers, foreigners must always use a passport instead of a Chinese ID.
• Book in Advance: High-speed train tickets and popular flights can sell out, especially around Chinese holidays like Spring Festival or National Day.
• Use Local Travel Agents: A local Yiwu sourcing agent can assist with ticket booking and airport/train station pickup, avoiding stress for first-time buyers.

4. How to Get to Yiwu Market from Major Cities

Yiwu International Trade City attracts wholesale buyers from around the world. Reaching it efficiently from China’s major gateway cities is essential for maximizing your sourcing time. Below are the most practical routes from the top departure cities, tailored specifically for international and domestic procurement professionals.

4.1 How to Get to Yiwu Market from Shanghai

Recommended Transport: High-Speed Train

Take a G-series or D-series train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station directly to Yiwu Station.

Approximate Travel Time: 2–2.5 hours

Frequency: Over 50 trains daily, departures every 15–30 minutes during peak hours.

Why It’s Ideal for Wholesale Buyers:

• Fastest and most reliable option—arrive in Yiwu refreshed and ready to start sourcing the same day.
• Generous luggage allowance for carrying samples, catalogs, or initial purchases.
• Yiwu Station is only 10–15 minutes by taxi/Didi (¥20–40) to the International Trade City.
• Affordable second-class seats (around ¥150–200) make it cost-effective even for frequent buyers.

Alternative: Fly from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Yiwu Airport (1.5 hours flight + transfers), but trains are far more frequent and convenient.

4.2 How to Get to Yiwu Market from Guangzhou

Recommended Transport: High-Speed Train

Direct G-series trains from Guangzhou South Station to Yiwu Station.

Approximate Travel Time: 6.5–7.5 hours

Frequency: Multiple daily departures, especially morning and afternoon.

Why It’s Ideal for Wholesale Buyers:

• Comfortable overnight or daytime options allow you to travel while reviewing supplier lists or sleeping.
• No baggage weight restrictions—perfect after attending Canton Fair Phase 2/3 when buyers often head straight to Yiwu.
• Direct route eliminates transfers; arrive directly at Yiwu Station with quick access to the market.
• Business-class seats available for extra comfort on longer journeys.

Alternative: Fly Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) → Yiwu Airport (about 2 hours flight), then 30–40 minutes taxi to market—faster but more expensive and fewer flights.

4.3 How to Get to Yiwu Market from Shenzhen

Recommended Transport: High-Speed Train

Take a train from Shenzhen North Station to Yiwu Station (usually with one quick change in Guangzhou South or Hangzhou East).

Approximate Travel Time: 7–8 hours (direct options occasionally available)

Frequency: Several connections daily.

Why It’s Ideal for Wholesale Buyers:

• Seamless integration with electronics and gadget sourcing trips in Shenzhen/Huaqiangbei.
• Ample space for bulky samples or prototype items common in tech categories.
• Reliable scheduling lets you plan tight itineraries combining Shenzhen factories and Yiwu small-commodity markets.
• Cost-effective compared to flying when factoring in airport transfers.

Alternative: Fly Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) → Yiwu Airport (direct or via Guangzhou, ~2–3 hours total air time)—best if time is extremely limited.

4.4 How to Get to Yiwu Market from Hangzhou

Recommended Transport: High-Speed Train

Frequent trains from Hangzhou East Station to Yiwu Station.

Approximate Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours

Frequency: Trains every 10–20 minutes—extremely convenient.

Why It’s Ideal for Wholesale Buyers:

• Shortest major-city connection; perfect for day trips or extended sourcing stays.
• Many international buyers fly into Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport (HGH) first, making this route a natural extension.
• Low cost (¥50–80) and minimal travel fatigue—maximize time inside the market districts.
• Easy same-day returns if needed.

Alternative: Airport shuttle bus or private transfer (about 1.5 hours), but trains are faster, cheaper, and more frequent.

5. How a Yiwu Sourcing Agent Can Help with Your Trip

A local Yiwu sourcing agent does more than help you find suppliers. The right agent supports your entire sourcing trip, starting from arrival.

Agents can advise on the best way to reach Yiwu based on your schedule, arrange airport or station pickup, recommend suitable hotels near Yiwu Market, and plan efficient market routes. During your visit, they can also assist with translation, supplier meetings, and negotiation, helping you make better sourcing decisions in less time.

By handling logistics and coordination, a Yiwu sourcing agent allows you to focus on product selection, pricing, and long-term supplier relationships.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Getting to Yiwu Market

Is Yiwu Market easy to reach for foreign buyers?

Yes. Yiwu Market is very accessible for foreign buyers, even for first-time visitors to China.

Yiwu has a well-developed transportation system, including high-speed rail connections with major cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou, as well as a domestic airport. Clear station signage, ride-hailing apps, and reliable taxi services make it easy to reach the market area without complicated transfers.For buyers unfamiliar with China’s transport system, planning the route in advance or working with a local sourcing agent can significantly reduce time and travel stress.

What is the fastest way to get to Yiwu from Shanghai?

The fastest and most reliable way is by high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.

The journey usually takes around 2.5 hours, with frequent departures throughout the day. Compared with flights, high-speed trains offer more stable schedules, fewer delays, and easier luggage handling.

Many wholesale buyers prefer this option because it allows them to arrive in Yiwu and start market visits on the same day.

Can I visit Yiwu Market in one day?

Yes, but it is usually not ideal for wholesale sourcing.

Yiwu Market is very large and divided into multiple districts, each focusing on different product categories. A one-day visit may work if you are checking a very specific product or meeting pre-selected suppliers, but it is not enough for serious sourcing.Most buyers plan two to three days to review samples, compare suppliers, and discuss pricing and customization options.

Do I need to speak Chinese to travel to Yiwu?

You do not need to speak Chinese to travel to Yiwu, but basic communication support is helpful.

Hotels, transportation services, and many market suppliers are familiar with foreign buyers. However, not all vendors speak fluent English, especially when discussing technical details, pricing, or MOQs.For smoother negotiations and clearer communication, many buyers choose to work with a local Yiwu sourcing agent during their visit.

Is Yiwu Market close to the airport or train station?

Yes. Yiwu International Trade Market is relatively close to both transportation hubs.

From Yiwu Railway Station, the market is about 15–20 minutes by taxi. From Yiwu Airport, travel time is usually 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.

This short distance allows buyers to arrive in Yiwu and begin sourcing quickly, even on a tight schedule.

Conclusion

Yiwu Market is one of the easiest wholesale markets in China for foreign buyers to reach.

With frequent high-speed trains, a domestic airport, and clear connections from major cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, traveling to Yiwu is straightforward and efficient when planned correctly.Choosing the right transportation route can help you save time, control travel costs, and maximize your sourcing schedule. For first-time visitors, understanding the city layout and market districts in advance is especially important, as Yiwu Market is large and highly specialized by product category.

If you want to focus on supplier selection, pricing discussions, and product development rather than logistics and navigation, working with a local Yiwu sourcing agent can make your visit more productive. Professional on-the-ground support helps ensure that your trip to Yiwu leads to reliable suppliers and long-term sourcing results.