Jilin China Travel Guide
Changchun's main air gateway is Changchun Longjia International Airport (CGQ). It sits approximately 31 kilometers northeast of the city center, making it an accessible point for visitors.
Flight prices generally increase during Chinese public holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Liberation Day Golden Week) plus busy summer travel season (July-August). Winter (December-February) also sees higher prices for domestic routes. Book flights well in advance in these periods. Changchun Longjia International Airport offers different facilities.
Connects CGQ directly to Changchun Rail Depot in 20-30 minutes.
Economical choice to various city parts, longer travel 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 transfers 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 Railway Station (city center, both high-speed and conventional) and Changchun West Train Terminal (mainly high-bullet train services).
Long-long-haul 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 a landlocked 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 in 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 Baidu maps navigation app or Amap are needed for navigation.
Highways are well-kept up and generally safe. Local roads can be congested. Driving standards and adherence to driving regulations may are different 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 plus fitting tires needed. Parking is available but can be challenging to find and expensive in central areas. For car rentals, use DiscoverCars.com.
Changchun is an inland city, so sea or river arrivals are not applicable as a primary mode of international or long-distance domestic transport for mainstream travel.
Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for direct arrival in Changchun. For foreign visitors arriving in China via sea, you would likely typically disembark at a coastal city port (e.g., Shanghai, Tianjin) and next use domestic flights or trains 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 convenience stores.
Double-check flight/train times 24-48 hours before departure to avoid issues.
Account for potential traffic delays to the airport/station, especially during peak hours.
Factor in time for security screening; it could require longer than expected at busy times.
Ensure all your travel documents (passport, visa, boarding pass) are easily accessible. Dispose of any prohibited items before security. Have your mobile payment apps ready if needed for last-last-minute buys.
