If you’ve got a layover in Zhijiang, don’t let it go to waste sitting at HJJ. The city, in China, is within easy reach — roughly 50 minutes by Taxi/Local Bus. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave HJJ:
- 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 Zhijiang takes about 50 minutes by Taxi/Local 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.
How to Get Into Zhijiang
The most straightforward way into Zhijiang is the Taxi/Local Bus, which takes about 50 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Local Bus is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Zhijiang:
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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Zhijiang, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Zhijiang Airport
Luggage storage is available at Likely unavailable due to the airport’s small size.. 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 Zhijiang.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Zhijiang, we’d suggest Zhijiang Anti-Japanese War Victory Memorial Hall and Zhijiang Peace Park. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
If you’d rather stay inside HJJ — 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:
- Relaxing Airport Waiting Area
- Zhijiang Airport Souvenir & Convenience Shop
Food & Dining Options
For food in Zhijiang, local travelers recommend Zhijiang Dong Family Cuisine. If you have time for a second stop, Hunan Spicy Pot is another popular pick.
Back at HJJ, Zhijiang Airport Canteen is the go-to. Airport Snack & Coffee Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HJJ, 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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HJJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Zhijiang 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Zhijiang count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave HJJ. 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.