Huai’an is a historic city in Jiangsu Province, China, known for its rich cultural heritage and waterway connections. With Huai’an Nanjiao Airport (HIA) serving as a regional hub, layovers here offer a chance to explore traditional Chinese architecture, local cuisine, and important historical sites. Whether you have a few hours or an overnight layover, this guide will help you make the most of your time.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
| Visa Requirements | Check IATA Travel Centre for China visa requirements based on your nationality. Many nationalities qualify for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for short stays. |
| Language | Mandarin Chinese is the primary language. Download offline translation apps (Google Translate, Pleco) before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable. |
| Currency | Chinese Yuan (CNY). Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for the best exchange rates. Avoid airport currency counters – rates are significantly worse. |
| Time Zone | China Standard Time (CST, UTC+8) |
Getting to Huai’an City
Huai’an Nanjiao Airport is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. For specific transit options, current schedules, and transportation details, visit the official airport website.
Important Transit Timing: Always factor in immigration and security time when calculating whether you can leave the airport. For international layovers, budget at least 1 hour for immigration clearance plus 2-3 hours to return to the airport and clear security before departure. This means you’ll need a minimum 6+ hour layover to comfortably explore the city.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 hours)
With limited time, stay near the airport or use the layover for rest:
- Rest at the airport: Find a quiet seating area or check if sleeping pods are available
- Refresh yourself: Use airport facilities to freshen up, change clothes, and recharge devices
- Grab a meal: Eat at airport food courts (note: airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices)
- Stay connected: Use airport WiFi to check messages and download offline maps for future reference
Medium Layover (4-8 hours)
You have enough time to explore nearby areas or key city attractions:
- Huai’an City Center: Visit the historic downtown area with traditional architecture and local markets
- Local cuisine: Eat in the city rather than the airport – you’ll find authentic Huai’an dishes at better prices. Try local specialties at street food stalls or casual restaurants
- Shopping: Browse local shops and markets for regional crafts and souvenirs
- Quick cultural visit: Depending on location, visit a nearby temple or historical site
Overnight Layover (8+ hours)
With an overnight layover, you can experience Huai’an more thoroughly:
- Historical sites: Explore major attractions including temples, museums, and cultural heritage areas
- Local neighborhoods: Walk through residential areas to experience daily life and local culture
- Dining experiences: Enjoy sit-down meals at local restaurants featuring regional cuisine
- Accommodation: Book a hotel near the airport or city center for rest. Check SleepingInAirports.net for airport sleeping options if you prefer to stay at HIA
- Luggage storage: Use Bounce or Stasher to store luggage near the airport or city ($5-10/bag/day) – much cheaper than airport lockers
Quick Layover Tips
- Download offline maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing to navigate without relying on airport WiFi or data
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Share your location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact for safety
- Get an eSIM: Consider purchasing an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) for instant data without hunting for WiFi
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave HIA airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave Huai’an Nanjiao Airport during a layover if you have a valid visa or qualify for visa-free entry to China. However, you must factor in immigration clearance (1+ hour), travel time to the city and back (varies by destination), and security re-entry (1-2 hours). For international flights, a minimum 6+ hour layover is recommended to safely explore outside the airport. Always verify your visa requirements before your trip.
What is there to do at HIA during a layover?
At the airport, you can rest, refresh in airport facilities, eat at food courts, use WiFi, and recharge devices. If you have time to leave the airport, Huai’an offers historic sites, local markets, traditional architecture, temples, museums, and authentic regional cuisine. The city center is approximately 20 kilometers from the airport. For specific attractions and current information, check the airport website or download offline maps before arrival.
How long of a layover do I need at HIA?
For a short layover staying at the airport: 2-4 hours is sufficient for rest and refreshment. To explore the city: budget at least 6+ hours total layover time, accounting for 1 hour immigration, 2-3 hours for travel and exploration, and 1-2 hours to return and clear security. For an overnight layover (8+ hours), you can experience Huai’an more thoroughly, including accommodation and dining.
Are there lounges at HIA?
Specific lounge information for Huai’an Nanjiao Airport is not currently available. Check with your airline about lounge access included with your ticket class or frequent flyer status. Alternatively, you can purchase a one-time lounge day pass through your airline or explore Priority Pass membership, which provides access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide. Some credit cards include Priority Pass benefits.
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Whether you’re spending a few hours or an overnight layover in Huai’an, smart planning makes all the difference. Download offline maps, check visa requirements in advance, and use luggage storage services if needed. Ready to optimize your layover? Use the Yopki layover calculator above to see exactly what you can fit into your time at HIA.