Passing through Huatugou Airport? A layover in Mengnai is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 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.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of HTT:
- Can you legally enter China? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CNY. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What to See and Do in Mengnai
If you head into Mengnai, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
If you’d rather stay inside HTT — 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 Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Transport from Huatugou Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Huatugou Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
Where to Eat
In Mengnai
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside HTT
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Mengnai might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$7 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$22 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HTT, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Mengnai 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at HTT 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 Mengnai for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Need a Nap? Options at HTT
Long overnight layover? Your options at HTT 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
A layover in Mengnai doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from HTT, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.