For travelers with a layover in Jinchuan, the proximity of JIC to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 75 minutes via Airport Bus / Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Before You Step Outside JIC
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at JIC:
First, verify that you can enter China — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Airport Bus / Taxi takes about 75 minutes into Jinchuan, 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Jinchuan
If you head into Jinchuan, here are two things worth checking out:
Jinchuan National Mine Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Jinchang Park is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at JIC, check out Jinchuan Airport First Class Lounge or Jinchuan Airport Retail Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Transport from Jinchuan Airport to Downtown
From JIC, the Airport Bus / Taxi gets you to Jinchuan 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 Airport Bus / Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Eating Well on a Jinchuan Layover
In Jinchuan
If you make it into town, Authentic Lanzhou Beef Noodles is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Xinjiang Flavors Restaurant.
Inside JIC
If you’re staying in the terminal, Jinchuan Airport Noodle House is your main option. Airport Cafe JIC works too if you want something quick.
What to Budget for Your Jinchuan Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Jinchuan:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Jinchuan, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JIC, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Jinchuan 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.
Luggage Storage at JIC
Luggage storage options at JIC can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Jinchuan for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, JIC 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
Whether you spend your layover in Jinchuan exploring the streets or relaxing at JIC, 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.