Passing through Delingha Airport? A layover in Haixi is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 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.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Haixi, 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: Haixi is roughly 40 minutes from HXD via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Haixi
For a layover visit to Haixi, we’d suggest Delingha Museum (德令åå¸åç©é¦) and Delingha People’s Park (德令å人æ°å¬å). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HXD, you can spend time at Delingha Airport VIP Lounge or try Departure Hall Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Haixi: Lanzhou Lamian (Noodle) Restaurant and Haixi Local Cuisine Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Delingha Airport Noodle House or Terminal Coffee & Tea. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Haixi is the local transport, which takes about 40 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 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Haixi:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at HXD
Specific locker facilities at HXD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Haixi itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HXD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Haixi 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 Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, HXD 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 Haixi doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from HXD, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.