Beijing Daxing International Airport Travel Guide

Hi, everyone! I’m Alex Chen, a passionate traveler who thrives on independent exploration. As a native of China, I’ve developed a knack for discovering hidden gems around the world while traveling on a budget. Today, I’m excited to share a comprehensive guide to Beijing Daxing International Airport, one of the most modern and traveler-friendly airports in the world. Whether you’re an international traveler or exploring domestically, this guide is packed with practical tips and helpful insights to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

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Overview of Beijing Daxing International Airport

• Airport Code: PKX
• Address: Located at the intersection of Yufa Town and Lixian Town in Daxing District, Beijing, and Jiuzhou Town in Langfang City, Hebei Province.
• Distance to Downtown: 46 kilometers (approximately 29 miles).
• Terminal Information:
  • Beijing Daxing International Airport features a single, state-of-the-art terminal.
  • The terminal spans 780,000 square meters and was inaugurated in 2019.
  • It serves both domestic and international flights seamlessly.

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5 Best Ways to Travel from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Downtown

If you’re traveling independently, taking the metro is highly recommended for its affordability and efficiency. For late-night arrivals, the airport bus is a better option to reach the city center. Interestingly, Beijing Daxing International Airport is one of the few airports in China that connects directly to a city train station via high-speed rail. If the timing aligns with your schedule, the train is the quickest and most cost-effective choice.

1. How to Take the Metro from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Downtown

• Metro Line: Daxing Airport Express Line to Caoqiao Station, then transfer to Metro Line 10 or Line 2.
• Location: Basement Level 1 (B1) of the terminal.
• Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM.
• Cost: ¥25–35.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.

How to Buy Tickets:

• Purchase single-use tickets at ticket windows or self-service machines. Payments can be made with cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.
• Scan the metro QR code using WeChat or Alipay.
• Use contactless bank cards (Mastercard, Visa, or UnionPay) directly at the turnstiles.
• Transportation Card Purchase: Klook Deals, KKday Offers

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2. How to Take the Airport Bus from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Downtown

• Location: First floor of the terminal, near Gate 20 on the east side.
• Travel Time: Around 2 hours.

Popular Bus Routes:

• Beijing Railway Station Line:
  • Route: Daxing Airport → Liujiayao → Puhuangyu → Temple of Heaven → Ciqikou → Chongwenmen → Beijing Railway Station.
  • Operating Hours: First bus at 8:15 AM, last bus at 11:15 PM.
  • Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes.
  • Fare: ¥35–40.
• Capital Airport Line:
  • Route: Daxing Airport → Liujiayao → Fangzhuang → Shuangjing → Liangmaqiao → Capital Airport.
  • Operating Hours: First bus at 1:30 PM, last bus at 6:30 PM.
  • Fare: ¥25–55.
• Beijing Night West Line (Lama Temple):
  • Route: Daxing Airport → Jin Xing Bridge → Xia Jia Hutong → Li Ze Bridge → Gongzhufen → Andingmen → Dongzhimen.
  • Operating Hours: From 11:15 PM to 5:00 AM.
  • Fare: ¥35–50.
• Beijing Night East Line (Sanyuan Bridge):
  • Route: Daxing Airport → Tiananmen → Sanlitun → Agricultural Exhibition Center → Sanyuan Bridge.
  • Operating Hours: From 11:15 PM to 5:00 AM.
  • Fare: ¥35–50.

How to Buy Tickets:

• Tickets are available at bus ticket counters or self-service machines.
• Payments can be made with cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.
• Tickets can also be purchased via the official WeChat account of the airport bus service.

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3. How to Take a Taxi from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Downtown

• Location: Taxi pickup zones are located on the first-floor roadway, with separate areas on the east and west sides for destinations toward Beijing.
• Cost: Approximately ¥200. The base fare is ¥13 for the first 3 kilometers, and ¥2.3 per kilometer thereafter. A 20% surcharge applies for rides between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.
• Travel Time: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Taxis are a convenient option, especially for travelers with heavy luggage or those arriving late at night.

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4. How to Use a Ride-Hailing Service from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Downtown

• Location: Ride-hailing vehicles pick up passengers at Level 1M of Parking Lot P1. You can access this area via the pedestrian bridge on the second floor of the terminal.
• Cost: Approximately ¥120.
• Travel Time: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

You can book a ride using apps like DiDi or through Alipay. Ride-hailing services are slightly cheaper than taxis and offer app-based convenience.

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5. How to Take the Train from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Downtown

The Beijing-Xiong’an Intercity Railway is the fastest way to travel between the airport and downtown Beijing. Trains connect directly to Beijing West Railway Station.

• Location: Intercity train platforms are located in the Rail Transit Hall on Basement Level 1 (B1).
• Travel Time: Only 20 minutes.
• Cost: Around ¥30.
• How to Buy Tickets: Tickets can be purchased onsite or via the 12306 app.

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4 Best Ways to Travel from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City

1. Metro

Take the Daxing Airport Express Line from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Caoqiao Station (boarding at Basement Level 1). Transfer to Metro Line 10 at Caoqiao, and then switch to Line 2 at Chongwenmen Station. Get off at Qianmen Station and walk approximately 15 minutes to reach Tiananmen Square or the entrance to the Forbidden City.

• Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Approximately ¥35.
• Best For: Independent travelers on a budget with enough time for public transport.
• Transportation Card Purchase: Klook Deals, KKday Offers

2. Airport Bus

Take the Beijing Railway Station Line airport bus from Daxing International Airport, which passes through Chongwenmen and other city landmarks like the Temple of Heaven. Get off at a stop near Tiananmen Square and walk to your destination.

• Location: First floor of the terminal, east side near the city bus waiting area.
• Travel Time: Around 2 hours.
• Cost: ¥35–40.
• Best For: Travelers with luggage or those arriving on late-night flights.

3. Taxi

Head to the designated taxi pickup zones on the first-floor roadway at Daxing International Airport. Take a taxi directly to Tiananmen Square or the south gate of the Forbidden City.

• Cost: Approximately ¥200, depending on traffic conditions.
• Travel Time: Around 1 hour.
• Best For: Travelers in a hurry or with large amounts of luggage.

4. Ride-Hailing Service

Book a ride using apps like DiDi or Alipay Taxi. The pickup point is at Level 1M of Parking Lot P1, accessible via the second-floor pedestrian bridge. Ride-hailing services are generally cheaper than taxis.

• Cost: ¥120–150.
• Travel Time: Around 1 hour.
• Best For: Tech-savvy travelers familiar with app-based transportation services.

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5 Best Ways to Travel from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Beijing West Railway Station

1. Metro

Take the Daxing Airport Express Line from the airport to Caoqiao Station. Transfer to Metro Line 9, which takes you directly to Beijing West Railway Station. The seamless transfers make it an economical and convenient choice.

• Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours.
• Cost: Approximately ¥35.
• Best For: Budget-conscious travelers with ample time.
• Transportation Card Purchase: Klook Deals, KKday Offers

2. Airport Bus

Use the direct Airport Bus to Beijing West Railway Station, which provides ample luggage space and comfortable seating. The route covers several key city stops before arriving at the station.

• Location: First floor of the terminal, east side near the city bus waiting area.
• Travel Time: Around 2 hours.
• Cost: ¥35.
• Best For: Travelers looking for a direct, no-transfer option.

3. Taxi

Taxis are one of the fastest options for reaching Beijing West Railway Station. The designated taxi areas are located on the first-floor roadway, with separate sections for eastbound and westbound destinations.

• Cost: ¥150–200, depending on traffic conditions.
• Travel Time: Around 1 hour.
• Best For: Those short on time or traveling with heavy luggage.

4. Ride-Hailing Service

Book a ride using apps like DiDi or Alipay Taxi. Ride-hailing pickup points are located at Level 1M of Parking Lot P1. This option is typically cheaper than taxis and offers app-based convenience.

• Cost: ¥120–150.
• Travel Time: Around 1 hour.
• Best For: Travelers who prefer scheduled pickups and cashless payments.

5. Train

The Beijing-Xiong’an Intercity Railway is the fastest and most efficient way to travel from Daxing Airport to Beijing West Railway Station. Trains depart from the Rail Transit Hall on Basement Level 1 (B1) and offer a comfortable, hassle-free experience.

• Travel Time: Only 20 minutes.
• Cost: Around ¥30.
• How to Buy Tickets: Available at ticket counters or via the 12306 app.
• Best For: Travelers prioritizing speed and convenience.

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4 Best Ways to Travel Between Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport

The distance between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is approximately 67 kilometers (straight line) or 80–90 kilometers by road. The journey typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Here are the recommended transportation options:

1. Beijing-Xiong’an Intercity Railway + Metro

This is one of the most convenient and cost-effective options, especially for travelers with flexible schedules.

• Route:
  • Take the Beijing-Xiong’an Intercity Railway from Daxing International Airport to Caoqiao Station.
  • Transfer to Metro Line 10 at Caoqiao Station and head to Sanyuanqiao Station.
  • Switch to the Capital Airport Line at Sanyuanqiao Station to reach Beijing Capital International Airport.
• Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.
• Cost: Around ¥70.
• Best For: Budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind multiple transfers.

2. Direct Airport Bus

A dedicated airport shuttle bus operates between Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport, offering a hassle-free option without transfers.

• Route: Board the shuttle bus from the designated airport bus station on the first floor of Daxing Airport. The service is available in both directions.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
• Cost: Around ¥100.
• Best For: Travelers who prefer direct routes and want to avoid navigating transfers.

3. Taxi

Taxis provide the most straightforward and private way to travel between the two airports, ideal for those with heavy luggage or traveling in groups.

• Cost: ¥300–400 during the day or ¥350–450 at night, depending on traffic.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
• Best For: Passengers in a hurry or those who prioritize convenience over cost.

4. Ride-Hailing Service

Apps like DiDi or other ride-hailing platforms offer an affordable alternative to taxis with similar convenience. You can book a ride directly from the app, which provides real-time updates and cashless payment options.

• Cost: ¥250–350, depending on the type of vehicle and traffic conditions.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
• Best For: Travelers familiar with ride-hailing platforms and who prefer app-based booking and payments.

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Guide to Beijing Daxing International Airport

Tax Refunds

If you’re eligible for a tax refund at Beijing Daxing International Airport, here’s everything you need to know:

• Eligibility Requirements:
  • A single purchase of tax-refunded goods worth at least ¥500 from the same store on the same day.
  • The purchase date must be within 90 days of your departure date.
• Refund Amount:
  • The refund rate is 13% of the invoice amount (including VAT), with 11% returned to the traveler.
• Refund Process:
  • Before Security: Get your refund validated at the customs counter. Follow the airport signage to locate the customs desk at the southern end of the D check-in island on the 4th floor.
  • After Security: Proceed to the refund counter located past the international security and immigration checkpoints, near the duty-free shop in the international departure area.
• For more detailed information on tax refunds, visit our China Tax Refund Guide.

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Buying SIM Cards

• Location:
  • China Unicom: First floor, east side (pre-security).
  • China Mobile: Third floor, center (pre-security).
• Available Plans:
  • 7-Day Plan: ¥100, includes 30GB of data and 100 minutes of calls.
  • 15-Day Plan: ¥150, includes 50GB of data and 200 minutes of calls.
  • 30-Day Plan: ¥250, includes 80GB of data and 300 minutes of calls.
• Important Note: You’ll need a VPN to access services like Google, Line, and others while in China.

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Payment App Assistance Counter

To make it easier for international travelers to use WeChat Pay and Alipay, Beijing Daxing International Airport offers a dedicated service desk for assistance.

• Services Provided:
  • Help downloading and installing WeChat Pay and Alipay apps.
  • Guidance on linking international bank cards and activating payment functions.
  • Basic operational support and answers to frequently asked questions.
• Location: Inquiry counter at the exit of the international baggage claim area (west side).

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Dining Options and Operating Hours

• Starbucks:
  • Location: Third floor, international departure area.
  • Hours: Open 24 hours.
  • Offerings: Coffee, light snacks.
• KFC:
  • Location: Third floor, international departure area.
  • Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
  • Offerings: Burgers and fast food.
• McDonald’s:
  • Location: Third floor, International E concourse.
  • Hours: 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
  • Offerings: Burgers and breakfast items.

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Duty-Free Shop Hours

• Location: Third floor, international departure area.
• Hours: Adjusted according to flight schedules.
• Offerings: Cigarettes, perfumes, cosmetics, and food items.

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Luggage Storage Locations

• Option 1:
  • Location: Second floor, domestic arrivals hall (near the JD counter, east side).
  • Hours: Open 24 hours.
  • Cost: ¥30/24 hours for bags under 20 inches, ¥40/24 hours for bags over 20 inches.
• Option 2:
  • Location: Fourth floor, departure hall (east side, H island).
  • Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
  • Cost: ¥30/24 hours for bags under 20 inches, ¥40/24 hours for bags over 20 inches.

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Currency Exchange

• Yu Xin Currency Exchange:
  • Location: Third floor, international departure area.
  • Hours: Open 24 hours.
• United Currency Exchange:
  • Location 1: Fourth floor, check-in hall.
  • Hours: Open 24 hours.
  • Location 2: First floor, international baggage claim hall.
  • Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

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Free Wi-Fi Access

Travelers can enjoy free Wi-Fi at Beijing Daxing International Airport using the following methods:

1. Mobile Number: Enter your phone number to receive a login code via SMS.
2. Passport Login: Provide your passport information to access the network.
3. Ticket Machine: Obtain a temporary login code from self-service kiosks inside the airport.

Tip: A VPN is necessary to access platforms like Google while using the Wi-Fi network.

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Can You Stay Overnight at the Airport?

Yes, Beijing Daxing International Airport accommodates overnight travelers with designated rest areas. These zones offer comfortable recliner chairs, panoramic views, and free charging outlets at every seat, ensuring a restful layover experience.

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Connecting from an International Flight to a Domestic Flight

If you arrive at Beijing Daxing International Airport on an international flight and need to transfer to a domestic flight, follow these steps for a smooth transition:

1. Disembark and Proceed Through Immigration

• After arriving, follow airport signage to the immigration area for entry clearance.
• Be prepared with your passport, visa (if required), and any health declaration forms as per the latest Chinese travel policies.

2. Collect Checked Luggage

• After clearing immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve your checked luggage.
• If your airline offers a “through-checked baggage” service, you can skip this step and move directly to the next one.

3. Check in for Your Domestic Flight

• Head to the domestic check-in counters to complete the check-in process and recheck your luggage.
• Domestic flight check-in counters are located in the terminal’s domestic flight zone. Look for signs or consult airport staff for assistance in finding your airline’s counter.

4. Security Screening

• Once you’ve checked in, proceed through the security checkpoint for domestic flights.
• Ensure your boarding pass and ID are ready, and verify that your carry-on items comply with domestic flight security regulations.

5. Head to Your Boarding Gate

• After security, follow the signs to your assigned boarding gate.
• Monitor gate information for any changes and allow yourself enough time to get to the gate without rushing.

Recommended Time

• Allocate at least 3 hours to complete the transfer process, ensuring you have sufficient time to avoid missing your connecting flight.

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Connecting from a Domestic Flight to an International Flight

If you’re transferring from a domestic flight to an international flight at Beijing Daxing International Airport, here’s what you need to do:

1. Disembark and Collect Checked Luggage

• Upon arrival, proceed to the baggage claim area to pick up your checked luggage.
• If your airline offers a “through-checked baggage” service, you can bypass this step.

2. Check in for Your International Flight

• Locate the international flight check-in counters in the terminal.
• Complete your check-in process and recheck your luggage at your airline’s counter.
• Make sure you have all required documents, including your passport, visa (if needed), and any COVID-related certificates (e.g., PCR test results, if applicable).

3. Clear Immigration

• After checking in, proceed to the immigration area for exit clearance.
• Present your passport, boarding pass, and any necessary documentation for verification.

4. Security Screening

• Go through the security checkpoint dedicated to international flights.
• Confirm that your carry-on luggage complies with international travel regulations to avoid delays.

5. Proceed to Your Boarding Gate

• Follow signs to your assigned boarding gate after completing security.
• Keep an eye on flight information screens for updates and allow extra time to account for changes in gate assignments.

Recommended Time

• To ensure a seamless transfer, plan to arrive at least 4 hours before your international flight, especially during peak travel times, to avoid unnecessary stress or delays.