Changchun Jilin, China Travel Guide
Changchun's main air gateway is Changchun Longjia International Airport (CGQ). It sits approximately 31 kilometers to the northeast of the city center, making it an approachable point for visitors.
Flight prices generally increase during Chinese public holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Liberation Day The Golden week holidays) plus busy summer travel season (July-August). Winter (December-February) also sees higher prices for domestic routes. Book flights well in advance during these periods. Changchun Longjia International Airport presents various facilities.
Connects CGQ directly to Changchun Railway Station in 20-30 minutes.
Economical choice to various city parts, more travel time times.
Approx. ¥80-120 to city center, 45-60 minutes travel. Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.
Secure flights early, especially during holidays or peak seasons, for better prices. Use Skyscanner for comparisons.
Purchase a local SIM or arrange mobile payment apps (Alipay/WeChat Pay) upon arrival at the airport to simplify taxi bookings and other transactions.
For international trips, plan for connections through major Chinese or East Asian hubs, as direct international flights to Changchun are limited.
Changchun acts as a major railway hub in Northeast China, maintaining extensive connections. The main stations are Changchun Train Station (city center, both high-speed and conventional) and Changchun West Rail Depot (mainly high-speed rail services).
Long-distance buses connect Changchun to various cities and towns within Jilin Province and neighboring provinces. The central bus terminals include Changchun Passenger Transport Center and Changchun Kaixuan Road Bus Station. Options range from standard coaches to sleeper buses. Changchun is an inland city; direct border crossings into North Korea or Russia are generally not made from here for tourism. Such crossings involve specific procedures and visas, usually via other border cities.
Foreigners cannot legally drive within China using an International Driving Permit. A temporary Chinese driving license, obtainable after arrival and passing a written test, is needed. Most tourists find it impractical for short visits. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours. Major highways are generally well-maintained, however local apps like The The baidu maps app app or Amap are needed for navigation.
Highways are well-maintained and generally safe. Local roads can be congested. Driving standards and adherence to rules of the road may differ from what you are utilized to. Exercise caution with aggressive driving by others, pedestrians, and cyclists. Roads can become icy and snowy during winter, creating extreme caution and appropriate tires needed. Parking is available but can be challenging to find and expensive in the city center. For car rentals, use DiscoverCars.com.
Changchun is a landlocked city, so sea or river arrivals are not applicable as a main mode of international or long-distance domestic transport for general tourism.
Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for direct arrival in Changchun. For foreign visitors arriving in China via sea, you would typically disembark at a coastal city port (e.g., Shanghai, Tianjin) and next use domestic flights or trains heading to reach Changchun.
Changchun's geographical position means no direct sea access.
Connect using other major Chinese cities if arriving by sea.
No ferry services or cruise ports applicable for Changchun.
There are no specific exit fees or taxes for departing China. Reconfirm your flight or train schedule 24-48 hours before departure. Allow extra time for travel to your point of departure during peak hours.
Changchun Longjia International Airport maintains various facilities for departing travelers, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores (for international departures). Lounges are also available for eligible passengers. Changchun Train Stations maintain waiting rooms, restaurants, and mini-marts.
Double-check flight/train times 24-48 hours before departure to avoid issues.
Factor in potential traffic delays to the airport/station, especially during peak hours.
Factor in time for security screening; it can take longer than expected at busy times.
Verify that all your travel documents (passport, visa, boarding pass) are easily accessible. Dispose of any things you can't bring before security. Have your mobile payment apps ready if needed for last-minute purchases.
