A long layover in Anshan is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Anshan Air Base for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside AOG
A few things to sort out before you leave AOG:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for China. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Anshan takes about 70 minutes by Airport Shuttle Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CNY. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting from AOG to Anshan
From AOG, the Airport Shuttle Bus gets you to Anshan in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Shuttle Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Anshan Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Anshan:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Anshan.
Luggage Storage at AOG
Specific locker facilities at AOG aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Anshan itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What’s Worth Seeing in Anshan
For a layover visit to Anshan, we’d suggest Jade Buddha Garden (çä½è) and 219 Park (äºä¸ä¹å¬å). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AOG, check out AOG Airport Waiting Area or AOG Convenience Store to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In Anshan
If you make it into town, Laobian Dumpling (Anshan Branch) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Anshan Local Hot Pot.
Inside AOG
If you’re staying in the terminal, AOG Airport Cafe is your main option. AOG Noodles & Snacks Counter works too if you want something quick.
Sleep & Lounge Options at AOG
Long overnight layover? Your options at AOG include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in China also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AOG is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Anshan and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Anshan genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.