If you’ve got a layover in Hailar, don’t let it go to waste sitting at HLD. The city, in China, is within easy reach — roughly 75 minutes by Local Bus / Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HLD:
First, verify that you can enter China — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Local Bus / Taxi takes about 75 minutes into Hailar, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CNY is the currency here. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Hailar, here are two things worth checking out:
Genghis Khan Square (æåææ±å¹¿åº) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Hailar.
World Anti-Fascist War Hailar Memorial Park (ä¸çåæ³è¥¿æ¯æäºæµ·æå°çºªå¿µå) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
If you’d rather stay inside HLD — 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:
- VIP Lounge (HLD)
- Local Souvenir Shop
How to Get Into Hailar
The most straightforward way into Hailar is the Local Bus / Taxi, which takes about 75 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 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Bus / Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Food Worth Trying
In Hailar
If you make it into town, Gereleme Mongolian Hot Pot (æ ¼æ¥åé¿å¦èé¤é¦) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Xiangyuan Roast Lamb Leg (é¦åç¤ç¾è¿).
Inside HLD
If you’re staying in the terminal, Northern Noodle House is your main option. Airport Fast Food works too if you want something quick.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Hailar might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Hailar, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and HLD is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Hailar 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at HLD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Hailar’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Need a Nap? Options at HLD
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HLD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Hailar exploring the streets or relaxing at HLD, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.