A layover in Xingyi is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Xingyi Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Airport Bus / Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave ACX:
- 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 Xingyi takes about 40 minutes by Airport Bus / Taxi. 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.
Exploring Xingyi on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Xingyi:
Start with Maling River Canyon Scenic Area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Wanfenglin Scenic Area (Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks). Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ACX, check out Xingyi Airport VIP Lounge or Xingyi Souvenir & Local Products Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Xingyi: Guizhou Sour Soup Fish Restaurant (Local) and Authentic Xingyi Local Cuisine. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Xingyi Airport Noodle House or Airport Coffee & Tea Express. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Xingyi
From ACX, the Airport Bus / Taxi gets you to Xingyi in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Xingyi:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $10 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $25 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at ACX 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 Xingyi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ACX for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Xingyi 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.
Need a Nap? Options at ACX
Long overnight layover? Your options at ACX 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 Xingyi with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Xingyi may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.