Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Changchun. Longjia Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 100 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Changchun, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for China vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Changchun is roughly 100 minutes from CGQ via ChangchunâJilin Intercity Railway. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CNY. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
What to See and Do in Changchun
If you head into Changchun, here are two things worth checking out:
The Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Cultural Square (Wenhua Guangchang) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside CGQ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- CGQ First Class Lounge
- Airport Retail & Duty-Free Shops
Where to Eat
- In the city: Laochangchun Fengwei (Old Changchun Flavor Restaurant) and Xishabu (Xia Bu Xia Bu Hotpot) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Changchun.
- At the airport: Local Noodle House and Starbucks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Changchun from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Changchun is the ChangchunâJilin Intercity Railway, which takes about 100 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 120 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the ChangchunâJilin Intercity Railway is usually the smarter call.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Changchun, budget roughly $22 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $7 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at Longjia Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At CGQ, you’ll find bag storage at Inquire at airport information desks or check with airline counters for potential baggage storage services. Dedicated lockers are not widely advertised..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CGQ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Changchun 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.
Taking a Break at CGQ
Long overnight layover? Your options at CGQ 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Changchun count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave CGQ. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.