Nanjing Airport (NKG): Facts, Terminals, and Connections

Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG) is one of the busiest aviation hubs in eastern China, serving the capital of Jiangsu Province. For international travelers planning a trip to China — especially those heading to cultural landmarks like the Shaolin Temple or other destinations — understanding NKG’s layout, terminals, and transport links is essential for a smooth journey.

Key Facts About Nanjing Airport (NKG)

• Location: About 35 kilometers (22 miles) south of downtown Nanjing.
• IATA Code: NKG
• Terminals: Two main terminals — Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2).
• Annual Passenger Capacity: Over 30 million passengers.
• Airlines: Serves both domestic and international routes, with direct flights to major cities in Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania.

Nanjing is a major gateway to eastern China, offering convenient connections to historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural experiences across the country.

Terminals at Nanjing Airport

Terminal 1 (T1)

• Used primarily for domestic flights.
• Features modern facilities, including shops, restaurants, lounges, and luggage storage.
• Directly connected to the metro and bus stations.

Terminal 2 (T2)

• Handles international flights and some domestic routes.
• Larger and more modern than T1, with duty-free shopping, currency exchange, and premium lounges.
• Easy access to transportation hubs via walkways and shuttle buses.

Tip: If you are connecting from an international flight to a domestic one, allow at least 2–3 hours for immigration, customs, and transfer.

Getting to and from Nanjing Airport

By Metro

• Line S1 connects the airport to Nanjing South Railway Station and the city center.
• Trains run every 10–15 minutes, with travel time around 30–40 minutes to the city center.

By Airport Bus

• Several bus routes operate between NKG and major districts, including:
  • Route 1: To Nanjing Railway Station.
  • Route 2: To Zhongyangmen and other central areas.
  • Route 3: To Nanjing South Railway Station.
  • Route 4: To Jiangning and other suburbs.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

• Taxis are available outside both terminals. The journey to downtown Nanjing takes about 40 minutes depending on traffic.
• Ride-hailing apps like Didi are widely used and can be booked with an international credit card or local payment methods.

By Car Rental

• Several international and local car rental agencies have counters at NKG. Note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in China.

Connecting from Nanjing to the Shaolin Temple

The Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Chinese martial arts (Kung Fu), is located near Dengfeng City in Henan Province, about 700 kilometers northwest of Nanjing. Most travelers reach the temple via Zhengzhou or Luoyang.

Recommended Route

1. Fly from Nanjing (NKG) to Zhengzhou (CGO) — Flight time is about 1.5 hours. Several airlines operate daily flights.
2. From Zhengzhou Airport, take a bus or taxi to Dengfeng City (about 1.5 hours).
3. From Dengfeng, local buses or taxis can take you directly to the Shaolin Temple (about 15–20 minutes).

Alternative Route

• High-speed train: From Nanjing South Railway Station to Zhengzhou East Railway Station takes about 3–4 hours. Then connect by bus or taxi to Dengfeng.

Tip: If you are on a multi-city tour, many travel services offer packages that include Nanjing, Zhengzhou, and the Shaolin Temple, saving you time on logistics.

Practical Travel Advice for International Travelers

• Visa: Most international travelers need a tourist visa (L-visa) to enter China. Apply at your local Chinese embassy or consulate well in advance.
• Language: English is not widely spoken at the airport or in the city. Download a translation app and have key phrases ready.
• Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the local currency. ATMs at NKG accept international cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at Nanjing Airport. Registration requires a Chinese phone number or passport.
• Flights: Book flights to Zhengzhou or other destinations early, especially during Chinese holidays like Spring Festival and National Day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How far is Nanjing Airport from the city center? A: About 35 kilometers (22 miles), or roughly 30–40 minutes by metro or taxi.

Q: Can I take a direct flight from Nanjing to Shaolin Temple? A: No, there is no airport at the Shaolin Temple. You must fly to Zhengzhou or Luoyang, then take ground transportation.

Q: Is there luggage storage at Nanjing Airport? A: Yes, both Terminals 1 and 2 offer luggage storage services for a fee.

Q: What is the best time to visit the Shaolin Temple? A: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Q: Are there English-speaking guides available at the Shaolin Temple? A: Yes, guided tours in English can be arranged through travel agencies or at the temple’s ticket office.

Conclusion

Nanjing Lukou International Airport is a convenient and well-connected hub for international travelers exploring eastern China. Whether you are visiting Nanjing for its rich history or using it as a gateway to cultural icons like the Shaolin Temple, NKG offers modern terminals, efficient transport links, and a range of services to make your journey smooth. Plan your connections in advance, and consider combining Nanjing with nearby destinations for a richer travel experience.