Yichang is an important transportation hub in Central China. The transport and communication lines of Yichang link up most parts of the country. Sanxia Airport is 26 kilometers (16.2 miles) from the city center and is busy every day transporting passengers to and fro between big cities in China or some cities in Japan. For railways, Yichang is a junction where Jiaoliu Railway (from Jiaozuo City to Liuzhou City) and Yiwan Railway (from Yichang City to Wan County) meet. The railways radiate out to the neighboring cities as well as big cities around the country, including Beijing, Xian, Guangzhou and Shanghai. The Yangtze River runs across the city for 237 kilometers (147 miles). Yichang is an important city on the river connecting.Chongqing upstream and Shanghai downstream. Yichang Port is listed as one of the eight largest ports on the Yangtze River. Taking a cruise ship from Yichang Port is an ideal way to enjoy the picturesque view of the Three Gorges. The expressways and national highways offer a great convenience in land transportation. There are three main bus stations in the city and buses depart from the stations frequently to the neighboring cities every day.