Passing through Heihe Airport? A layover in Heihe is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 70 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
A few things to sort out before you leave HEK:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for China. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Heihe takes about 70 minutes by Airport Shuttle Bus / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CNY. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Heihe Airport into town:
- Airport Shuttle Bus / Taxi: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Heihe, 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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Heihe, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at HEK
Specific locker facilities at HEK aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Heihe itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Exploring Heihe on a Layover
For a layover visit to Heihe, we’d suggest Heihe Port & Amur River Embankment and Heihe Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HEK, you can spend time at Heihe Airport Waiting Area & Tarmac View or try Heihe Airport Convenience Store. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Heihe: Heihe Dongbei Cuisine Restaurant and Heihe Hot Pot Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Heihe Airport Noodle Bar or Heihe Airport Snack & Beverage Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, HEK 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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and HEK is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Heihe 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Heihe 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 Heihe.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.