Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Handan gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HDG to the city takes roughly 75 minutes by Taxi / Airport Shuttle Bus, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Handan, 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: Handan is roughly 75 minutes from HDG via Taxi / Airport Shuttle Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CNY. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Handan, we’d suggest Zhao Handan Ancient City Park (èµµçåéåå¬å) and Wuling Congtai Park (æ¦çµä¸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. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HDG, check out Handan Airport VIP Lounge or Airport Souvenir & Gift Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Handan Local Delicacy Restaurant and Popular Chinese Hotpot Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Handan.
- At the airport: Airport Noodle & Snack Bar and Terminal Coffee & Tea Kiosk will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting from HDG to Handan
From HDG, the Taxi / Airport Shuttle Bus gets you to Handan in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Airport Shuttle Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Handan Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Handan layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at HDG
Dedicated luggage storage at HDG may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Handan’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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HDG should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in China and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at HDG 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Handan 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.