For travelers with a layover in Longyan, the proximity of LCX to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 90 minutes via Airport Bus, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave LCX:
- 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 Longyan takes about 90 minutes by Airport Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CNY. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
The Best Way Into Longyan from LCX
From LCX, the Airport Bus gets you to Longyan in around 90 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 110 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 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in Longyan
Two recommendations for your time in Longyan:
Start with Guanzhishan Scenic Area (Guanzhi Mountain). Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Longgong Cave Scenic Area (Dragon Palace Cave). A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
If you’d rather stay inside LCX — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Airport VIP Lounge
- Local Specialty Shop
Best Bites Near LCX
- In the city: Liancheng Hakka Flavor Restaurant and Xianglong Restaurant (Liancheng) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Longyan.
- At the airport: Airport Noodle & Snack Bar and Airport Cafe & Bakery will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Longyan layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$7 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$22 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At LCX, you’ll find bag storage at Likely unavailable or not easily accessible for international travelers..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at LCX, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Longyan 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.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at LCX.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Longyan 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.