Nanchong Sichuan, China Travel Guide
Nanchong Gaoping Airport (NAO) directly serves Nanchong, mainly handling domestic flights. Most international travelers connect through Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) or Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG).
Airlines like Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, Shenzhen Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines operate domestic routes from NAO to major Chinese cities. No direct international flights operate to NAO.
Connects directly to Nanchong city center (Railway Station, Wanda Plaza) in 30-40 minutes.
Readily available outside the terminal. A lift to the city center costs approximately ¥50-80.
Most efficient transfer. Metro/bus to main high-speed station, then train to Nanchong North.
Smaller airport with basic facilities: check-in, baggage claim, few dining options.
Major international airport with extensive facilities, lounges, duty-free, diverse dining.
Significant international hub offering similar extensive facilities as CTU.
Nanchong North Rail Depot (南充北站) is the main high-speed rail station, with frequent connections to major cities. Travel to Chengdu takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, and to Chongqing also about 1-1.5 hours. You can reach Xi'an in about 3-4 hours, with further connections to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
Nanchong has several long-distance bus stations, including Nanchong Bus Station and Nanchong East Bus Station. These connect the city to surrounding areas within Sichuan and neighboring provinces. Buses are generally slower than trains but provide access to destinations not served by rail.
Foreigners cannot drive in China with an International Driving Permit (IDP). A temporary or full Chinese driver's license is required. This process is often complex and time-consuming for short-term visitors. For most tourists, self-driving is not a practical option. Major highways are generally well-maintained. Road conditions are for the most part paved in Nanchong.
Driving in China can be challenging due to aggressive driving styles and less strict adherence to traffic laws compared to many Countries in the west. Pedestrian and cyclist safety requires vigilance. Traffic congestion is common during rush hours and public holidays. DiscoverCars.com for car rentals if you have a Chinese license.
Nanchong is an inland city within Sichuan province. It does not feature significant tourist-oriented ferry services or cruise ports for international or long-distance travel. River excursions on the Yangtze are popular further downstream, but Nanchong is not a port for these.
Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for travel to Nanchong, as it is an inland destination. Connections to land transportation from significant sea or river arrivals are also not applicable for Nanchong due to its geographical position.
For domestic flights from NAO, arrive 1.5-2 hours prior. For international from CTU/CKG, allow 3 hours.
Arrive at Nanchong North Railway Station 30-45 minutes before departure.
Arrive at the bus station 20-30 minutes before departure.
No particular exit fees or taxes are typically levied upon departure from China for air or land travel, beyond what is included in your ticket price. This simplifies your departure planning.
Nanchong Gaoping Airport (NAO) offers basic waiting areas, some shops, and food stalls. High-speed rail stations feature comfortable waiting rooms, various dining options, convenience stores, and restrooms. These facilities are generally modern and well-maintained for a comfortable departure.
You could receive a maximum OF €600 if your flight is delayed. Conditions apply.
Compensation for cancellations. Check eligibility and apply.
Services like AirHelp can help with claiming compensation.
Allow ample time for transfers, check-in, and security, especially when connecting from Nanchong to an international flight via Chengdu or Chongqing.
