Comprehensive guide to Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG) – where, terminals, facilities, how to get to Lijiang Old Town/high-speed train.
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About Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG)
Lijiang Airport, officially known as Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (IATA: LJG), is the main aviation hub in northwestern Yunnan Province, China. Opened in 1995 and expanded several times over the years, it acts as the primary entry point for travelers visiting Lijiang’s top attractions—such as Lijiang Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and Lugu Lake. Each year, the airport serves millions of passengers, with domestic flights connecting to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
Detail Category | Specific Information |
IATA Code | LJG |
Location | Qihe Township, Gucheng District, Lijiang City (approximately 28 km from Lijiang downtown and 30 km from Lijiang Old Town) |
Terminals | 2 main terminals (T1 and T2), both serving domestic flights. T2 handles most regular flights, while T1 provides additional capacity during peak travel seasons. There is no dedicated international terminal—occasional international flights use T2. |
Major Airlines | China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Lucky Air, Spring Airlines, Juneyao Airlines |
Where is Lijiang Airport located?
Lijiang Sanyi International Airport is located in Qihe Township, Gucheng District, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. Its specific address is: Qihe Village, Qihe Township, Gucheng District, Lijiang (postal code: 674100).
- Distance to key areas:
- Approximately 28 kilometers from Lijiang downtown (near the Gucheng District Government).
- Approximately 30 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- Approximately 120 kilometers from Lugu Lake (a popular scenic spot, about a 2.5-hour drive).
- Transport links nearby: The airport is adjacent to the Dali-Lijiang Expressway, making it easy to reach by car or bus. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive to Lijiang Old Town takes 40-50 minutes. Heavy traffic is rare, except during peak travel seasons like the National Day Holiday.
Lijiang Airport - Map & Layout
Credit: China Airline Travel
Lijiang Airport features a compact, user-friendly layout that reduces traveler confusion:
- Terminals: T1 and T2 are adjacent and connected by a covered walkway (a 5-minute walk). T2 is the main terminal, with more check-in counters, security lanes, and boarding gates.
- Departure Area: Located on the 2nd floor of both terminals. Check-in counters are organized by airline, with electronic displays showing the counter number for each flight. After check-in, passengers go through security checks (6-8 lanes in T2) and then proceed to the waiting area, where boarding gates 1-10 are located.
- Arrival Area: Situated on the 1st floor. Baggage claim halls (with 4-6 carousels) are near the arrival exits. Outside the exits, travelers can find taxi stands, airport bus ticket offices, and ride-hailing pick-up zones.
- Parking: A large outdoor parking lot is available in front of T2, with spaces for private cars and tour buses. Parking fees are around CNY 5 for the first hour, followed by CNY 2 per additional hour.
- Transfer Tips: For domestic transfers, passengers can use the internal transfer corridor between the arrival and departure areas—this eliminates the need to exit the terminal (follow “Transfer” signs).
Lijiang Airport - Arrivals & Departures Guide
Credit: China Airline Travel
Lijiang Airport - Arrivals Guide
- After your flight lands, follow the signs to the “Arrival Hall” (1st floor of T1 or T2).
- Collect your checked luggage at the baggage claim carousel—electronic screens will show which carousel corresponds to your flight.
- Exit the arrival hall. Outside, you can choose from the following transport options:
- Airport Bus: Buy tickets at the counter near Exit 2 (T2) for routes to Lijiang Old Town or downtown.
- Taxi: Queue at the official taxi stand (avoid unlicensed taxis, as they may overcharge).
- Ride-hailing: Wait at the designated pick-up area (marked “Didi Pick-up” or “Ride-hailing Zone”) for your driver.
- Tip: If you need tourist information, visit the tourism service desk near the arrival exit. Staff can assist with hotel bookings or tour recommendations.
Lijiang Airport - Departures Guide
- For domestic flights, arrive at the airport 2 hours in advance (for international charter flights, 3 hours in advance) to ensure there is sufficient time for check-in procedures.
- Go to the second floor (departure hall) and find the check-in counter of the airline. Use the electronic display screen to confirm the counter number. If you do not have checked luggage, please use the self-service check-in booth (which is available on most airlines) to print your boarding pass.
- Check in your luggage (if necessary) and then undergo a security check. Have your ID card (international flight passport) and boarding pass ready for inspection. Note: Carry-on luggage is not allowed to carry liquids, sharp objects or flammable items exceeding 100 ml.
- After passing through security, head to the boarding gate (indicated on the boarding pass) and wait for boarding.
- Tip: Lijiang is at a high altitude (about 2,200 meters), so some tourists may experience mild altitude sickness. Oxygen tanks (20-30 yuan) are available for sale at the airport convenience store.
How to Get to Lijiang City & Top Attractions from Lijiang Airport
Choose based on budget and convenience: Airport Bus (cheapest), Taxi/Ride-hailing (fastest), or Chartered Car (flexible for groups/remote spots).
Destination | Transport Method | Travel Time | Cost (CNY/USD) | Key Notes |
Airport Bus (Line 1) | 50 mins | 20 / ≈2.8 | Drops at Lantian Hotel (1km away) | |
Taxi/Ride-hailing | 35–40 mins | 80–100 / ≈11.1–13.9 | Direct to entrance | |
Direct Airport Shuttle | 1 hr | 20 / ≈2.8 | Hourly 8:00–20:15 | |
Chartered Car | 1 hr 15 mins | 150–200 / ≈20.8–27.8 | Best for groups | |
Lijiang Railway Station | Taxi/Ride-hailing | 25–30 mins | 60–80 / ≈8.3–11.1 | Fast for train transfers |
To Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Ancient Town)
Lijiang Old Town is the most popular destination, approximately 30 km from the airport.
- Airport Bus
Take Line 1 or the “Old Town South Gate Line” from the airport’s Arrival Hall Gate 2 (Terminal 2). Buses stop at Lantian Hotel (1 km west of the Old Town) or Old Town South Gate, operating from the first incoming flight until the last flight of the day. The fare is CNY 20, and the journey takes 50 minutes . From the drop-off points, walk 10-15 minutes or take a short taxi ride (CNY 10-15) to the Old Town entrance. - Taxi
Queue at the official taxi stand on the 1st floor of the Arrival Hall. The metered fare is around CNY 90 one-way, with a travel time of 35-40 minutes. Nighttime fares (22:00-6:00) are slightly higher (≈CNY 100-110) . - Ride-hailing
Book via Didi or other apps. The price is similar to taxis (CNY 80-100), and drivers meet you at the designated “Ride-hailing Zone” outside the Arrival Hall.
To Shuhe Ancient Town
Shuhe Ancient Town, quieter than Lijiang Old Town, is about 35 km from the airport.
- Direct Airport Shuttle
Take the dedicated “Shuhe Ancient Town Line” from Arrival Gate 3 (Terminal 2). Buses run hourly from 8:00 to 20:15, with a return service from Shuhe starting at 5:45. The fare is CNY 20, and the journey takes 1 hour . This is the most convenient option, dropping you near Shuhe’s South Gate. - Taxi/Ride-hailing
A taxi costs approximately CNY 100-120, with a travel time of 45-50 minutes. Ride-hailing apps offer similar prices and avoid queueing for taxis. - Transit via Airport Bus
For off-peak hours, take the airport bus to Lantian Hotel (CNY 20, 50 minutes), then transfer to City Bus 5A or 103 to Shuhe Ancient Town (CNY 2-5, 30 minutes) .
To Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is 58 km from the airport, a top natural attraction.
- Chartered Car
The most straightforward option—charter a car at the airport (CNY 150-200 one-way) for a 1-hour 15-minute drive directly to the scenic area’s visitor center . This is ideal for groups or travelers wanting to avoid transfers. - Public Transit (With Transfer)
- Take the airport bus to Lantian Hotel (CNY 20, 50 minutes).
- From Lantian Hotel, walk to the nearby “Snow Mountain Bus Station” and take the No. 101 Special Line to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (CNY 20, 1 hour).
Total cost: CNY 40, total time: 2.5 hours .
- Taxi
A one-way taxi ride costs around CNY 150, with the same travel time as a chartered car.
To Lijiang Railway Station
Lijiang Railway Station is 21 km from the airport, serving high-speed trains to Dali and Kunming.
- Taxi/Ride-hailing
The fastest option: a taxi costs CNY 70-80, with a 25-30 minute journey. Ride-hailing apps offer prices as low as CNY 60 . - Airport Bus + City Bus
Take the airport bus to Lantian Hotel (CNY 20, 40 minutes), then transfer to City Bus 4 or 18 to the railway station (CNY 2, 20 minutes). Total cost: CNY 22, total time: 1.5 hours.
The Ancient Town of Shuhe
4.5/5
404 reviewsIf you’re heading to Lijiang, don’t skip Shu He Ancient Town! It’s a hidden gem just 4km from the main city and way more peaceful than the crowded Lijiang Old Town. The cobbled streets, flowing streams, and traditional Naxi-style homes create such a relaxing vibe.I loved how you could stroll around without rushing — every corner had something charming, whether it was a quiet teahouse, local crafts, or red lanterns swaying in the breeze. It’s also rich in history, once a key stop along the Ancient Tea Horse Road. You can still feel that timeless atmosphere in the air.
Lijiang Airport Facilities, Lounges & Food
1. Lijiang Airport - Passenger Facilities
- Basic services: Info Desk (located in the arrival hall and departure hall of T2, staff can often speak Chinese and basic English), luggage storage (in the arrival hall of T2, charges 10-20 RMB per day), ATM (operated by Bank of China and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China), free WiFi (Network name: “LJG-Airport-Free-WiFi”, no password required), and charging stations (in waiting areas and rest zones).
- Accessibility: Wheelchair rental (free with valid identification, available at the service desk), barrier-free ramps and barrier-free restrooms throughout the airport.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops (only for international flights, offering a small selection of cosmetics and liquor) and domestic stores selling Yunnan specialties (such as pu’er tea, flower cakes, and Tibetan-style jewelry) and travel essentials (snacks, water, umbrellas).
2. Lijiang Airport - Lounges
Lijiang Airport has a few lounges to cater to different traveler needs:
- Airline Lounges: China Eastern Airlines Lounge (T2, near Gate 5), China Southern Airlines Lounge (T2, near Gate 8). These services are available to business class passengers or members of the airline's frequent flyer programs (such as Eastern Miles Silver and above members). They offer free drinks, snacks, newspapers and charging ports.
- Third-Party Lounges: "Lijiang Airport VIP Lounge" (T2, near Gate 3). You can enter the VIP lounge through a VIP membership (such as a dragon ticket or priority ticket) or by paying (about 80 yuan per person for 2 hours). It offers facilities similar to those in airline lounges, along with more comfortable seats. Trip.com may also have lounges.
3. Lijiang Airport - Food & Beverage
The airport offers a range of dining options to cater to different tastes and budgets.
- Chinese Fast Food: Chain stores like Zhenkungfu (offering rice and pickles) and Rural Flavor (offering Sichuan cuisine). The prices range from 30 to 50 yuan per meal.
- Local Specialties: Small restaurants offering Yunnan-style dishes, such as Guoqiao Mian (40-60 yuan) and Lijiang Fried Rice (25-35 yuan).
- Cafés & Snacks: Starbucks, Luckin Coffee (prices similar to those in the center of Lijiang), convenience stores (7-Eleven, selling snacks, water and instant noodles, 10-20 yuan).
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What to Prepare for a Trip to China?
- Visa & Entry Tips China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy now covers 54 countries, incl. the US, UK, Canada, and Brazil, allowing up to 10 days during layovers. Learn more about China Entry Tips to land in China easily.
- Getting Connected VPNs are vital for accessing Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc in China. Set one up before arriving. China eSIMs are the easiest option for data and bypassing restrictions. Pocket Wi-Fi devices work best for group but are pricier and require pickup/return.
- Money Exchange & Tax Refunds Exchange money in China banks (better rates than airports). ATMs accept foreign cards, but notify your bank first. For tax refunds, spend over ¥500 at stores with a "Tax-Free" sign. Keep receipts and get forms stamped at customs before departure.
Must-Have Apps in China
- China Payment Apps Forget cash. Chinese use Alipay (I like it better) or WeChat Pay to pay for everything in China. Scan a QR code at noodle stalls, metros, even temples. Link your foreign Visa/Mastercard before landing.
- China Map Apps Amap (Gaode Map) & Baidu Map (limited English) is what locals use, with real-time navigation, metro/bus routes, and traffic updates. Apple Maps does a good job too if you're already an IOS user.
- China Transport Apps Street taxis are cheap, but drivers rarely speak English. Use China Taxi App like DiDi (China’s Uber)—set your destination in English, pay by Alipay.
- China Travel Apps 15+ China trips taught me: Use Trip.com. It's the best English app for booking China trains/flights/hotels + finds Trip.com deals.
- China Dating Apps Locals use Tantan (China’s Tinder) and Momo. WeChat’s “People Nearby” works too, but expect language barriers unless your Mandarin’s decent.
- China Food App Use Meituan (also helps find nearby restaurants) or Ele.me for food delivery—both have English mode. No English menu in restaurants? Scan the QR with Alipay's translator.
FAQs about Lijiang Airport
Does Lijiang have an international airport?
Yes, Lijiang’s main airport is Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG), which holds international airport status. However, its international routes are limited—most are seasonal chartered flights to Southeast Asian cities (e.g., Bangkok, Thailand) or East Asian destinations. For regular international travel, most visitors transfer via Kunming Changshui International Airport to Lijiang.How do I get from Lijiang Airport to Lijiang Old Town?
There are four common ways: Airport Bus (Line 1): Departs every 30-60 minutes after flight arrivals, dropping off near Lijiang Old Town North Gate. The fare is CNY 20-25 per person, and the journey takes 40-50 minutes. Taxi: Official taxis are available at the airport stand, with metered fares ranging from CNY 80-120 (depending on traffic). The trip takes 40-50 minutes—avoid unlicensed taxis. Ride-hailing (Didi): Book via the Didi app, with prices similar to taxis (CNY 70-110). Your driver will meet you at the designated ride-hailing zone. Chartered Car: Suitable for groups or families. The fare is CNY 150-200 per trip, and the service includes door-to-door transport.Does Lijiang have a metro?
No, Lijiang currently does not have a metro system. Its main public transport options include: City buses: Fare is CNY 1-2 per ride, covering downtown and Lijiang Old Town. Airport buses: Connecting Lijiang Airport to downtown and Lijiang Old Town. Taxis and ride-hailing cars: Common for short trips around the city. Electric bikes: Available for rent near Lijiang Old Town, costing CNY 20-30 per day—ideal for short distances.Is there a high-speed train from Chengdu to Lijiang?
No, there is no direct high-speed train from Chengdu to Lijiang. You will need to transfer: Option 1: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu East Railway Station to Kunming South Railway Station (6-7 hours, CNY 260-350). Then, take a high-speed train from Kunming South Railway Station to Lijiang Railway Station (2.5-3 hours, CNY 150-200). Option 2: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Dali Railway Station (5-6 hours, CNY 220-300). Then, take a high-speed train from Dali Railway Station to Lijiang Railway Station (1.5-2 hours, CNY 80-120). Total travel time for both options is 8-10 hours. Book tickets in advance via the official 12306 platform.Which month is best to visit Lijiang?
The best months to visit Lijiang are March-May (spring) and September-November (autumn): March-May: Temperatures are mild (10-20°C), with blooming flowers (e.g., cherry blossoms, azaleas) and little rain. This is ideal for hiking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. September-November: Skies are clear, temperatures are comfortable (8-18°C), and the area features beautiful autumn foliage. This is perfect for visiting Lijiang Old Town and Lugu Lake. Avoid July-August (rainy season, with possible landslides) and December-February (cold, though it offers winter snow scenery on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain).Is Lijiang safe at night?
Yes, Lijiang is generally safe at night, especially in tourist areas like Lijiang Old Town—these areas are well-lit and have security patrols. However, take basic precautions: Keep valuables (e.g., phones, wallets) secure. Avoid unlit back streets in less crowded areas. Ask for prices before ordering food or drinks at street stalls to avoid overcharging. If taking a taxi at night, use official taxis or ride-hailing apps to prevent being overcharged.