If you’ve got a layover in Nanyang, don’t let it go to waste sitting at NNY. The city, in China, is within easy reach — roughly 75 minutes by Airport Shuttle Bus. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Nanyang, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for China vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Nanyang is roughly 75 minutes from NNY via Airport Shuttle Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CNY. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
What’s Worth Seeing in Nanyang
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Nanyang, two standouts are:
- Wuhou Temple (Wolonggang Wuhouci) — The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
- Nanyang Han Dynasty Stone Carving Museum — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside NNY — 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:
- NNY Airport VIP Lounge
- Airport Retail & Souvenir Shops
Eating Well on a Nanyang Layover
For food in Nanyang, local travelers recommend Juyuan Hui Mian (èåç©é¢). If you have time for a second stop, Lao Luoyang Tang Guan (èéé³æ±¤é¦) is another popular pick.
Back at NNY, Airport Noodle Bar is the go-to. Airport Cafe & Snack Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting to Nanyang from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Shuttle Bus | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Airport Shuttle Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Nanyang:
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.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Bag Storage Near NNY
Luggage storage is available at Information on public luggage lockers is not readily available in English for this regional airport. Inquire at the airport information desk upon arrival.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Nanyang.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at NNY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Nanyang or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at NNY
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at NNY, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Nanyang count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave NNY. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.