Passing through Saertu Airport? A layover in Daqing is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of DQA:
- Can you legally enter China? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Daqing, here are two things worth checking out:
Daqing Olympic Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Iron Man Wang Jinxi Memorial Hall is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at DQA, check out VIP Lounge (DQA) or Airport Souvenir & Convenience Store to keep yourself occupied.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Daqing is the local transport, which takes about 60 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 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Lao Bian Dumpling Restaurant (Daqing) and Siji Shuanroufang (Hotpot) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Daqing.
- At the airport: DQA Noodle Bar and Airport Cafe & Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Daqing, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Daqing, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at DQA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Daqing itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for China that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at DQA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Daqing for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, DQA has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Daqing is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Daqing.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.