There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Zhalantun into a quick city adventure. From NZL, the local transport can get you into town in around 50 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at NZL:
First, verify that you can enter China — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 50 minutes into Zhalantun, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Zhalantun
From NZL, the local transport gets you to Zhalantun in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Zhalantun:
Start with Zhalantun City Museum (æå°å±¯å¸åç©é¦). Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Then, if time allows, make your way to Zhalantun Pedestrian Street. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside NZL, you can spend time at Passenger Waiting Area & Observation Windows or try Airport Retail & Convenience Store. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Zhalantun Hot Pot Experience and Northeast Family Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Zhalantun.
- At the airport: Airport Noodle & Dumpling House and Terminal Coffee & Snack Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Zhalantun:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at Chengjisihan Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at NZL may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Zhalantun’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at NZL should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in China and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at NZL
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at NZL, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Zhalantun exploring the streets or relaxing at NZL, 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.