Planning a trip to China often starts with choosing the right flight. But before booking your tickets, it is worth understanding China's airport codes and the differences between airports serving the same city.

For example, Beijing has two major international airports: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). Shanghai is served by Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). Chengdu also has two airports, with different locations and travel connections.

Choosing the wrong airport can mean a longer journey to your hotel, an inconvenient connection or an unexpected change to your travel plans.

This guide introduces the IATA codes of major airports in China, explains which airport serves each destination, and shows you how to get from the airport to the city by metro, taxi, ride-hailing service or private transfer.

Whether you are planning a classic Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai itinerary, exploring Chengdu and Chongqing, visiting Guilin and Zhangjiajie, or traveling to Tibet and Yunnan, this guide will help you make more informed flight and transfer decisions.

1. Understanding Airport Codes in China

When searching for flights, you will usually see three-letter airport codes rather than full airport names.

These are IATA codes, assigned by the International Air Transport Association to identify airports and certain metropolitan areas in airline reservations and travel systems.

For example:

• PEK – Beijing Capital International Airport

• PVG – Shanghai Pudong International Airport

• XIY – Xi'an Xianyang International Airport

• CTU – Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

• KMG – Kunming Changshui International Airport

Airport codes are especially important in China because some major cities have more than one airport.

Airport code vs. city code: What is the difference?

A city code may represent multiple airports serving the same metropolitan area. It is not necessarily the code of an individual airport.

For example:

The city code can be useful when searching for flights to a general destination, but it does not tell you which airport your flight will use.

Important: Always check the full airport name and three-letter airport code on your ticket. Do not arrange a transfer based only on the city name.

2. China Airport Codes: Major Airports for International Travelers

The following table covers major airports commonly used by international visitors and travelers following popular China itineraries.

Major International and Regional Airports

This is a practical selection of airports for travel planning, not a complete list of every airport in China. Routes, airline services and airport operations can change, so confirm the airport shown on your current booking.

3. Beijing Airports: PEK vs. PKX

Beijing is served by two major airports, and choosing between them can affect your transfer time and travel arrangements.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Beijing Capital International Airport is located northeast of central Beijing. It has traditionally been the city's main international gateway and remains an important airport for domestic and international flights.

Airport code: PEK

Best for: Travelers whose flights are scheduled to arrive at or depart from Beijing Capital.

Getting to central Beijing:

• Airport Express: The Airport Express connects the airport with the city's urban rail network. Travelers can transfer to other metro lines to reach different districts.

• Taxi: Follow the official signs to the designated taxi queue. Have your hotel address in Chinese ready.

• Ride-hailing: Use a supported service such as DiDi and follow the app's pickup instructions.

• Private transfer: A pre-arranged vehicle can be convenient if you are arriving with several suitcases, traveling with family or landing late at night.

The most suitable option depends on your hotel location, arrival time and luggage.

Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)

Beijing Daxing International Airport is located south of central Beijing, near the boundary between Beijing and Hebei Province.

Airport code: PKX

Best for: Travelers whose flight specifically uses Beijing Daxing.

Getting to central Beijing:

• Airport Express / rail: Daxing Airport has dedicated rail connections to the city. Check the current service and transfer arrangements for your destination.

• Taxi: Official taxi services operate from designated airport pickup areas.

• Ride-hailing: Follow the app's designated pickup instructions.

• Private transfer: Useful for direct hotel journeys, especially when traveling with luggage or on a tight schedule.

PEK or PKX: Which Beijing Airport Should You Choose?

You usually cannot choose the airport independently of the airline and flight schedule, but you can compare the arrival airport before purchasing a ticket.

Consider:

1. Where your hotel is located.

2. Whether you need to connect to a domestic flight or high-speed train.

3. The arrival time and available transport services.

4. Whether you are traveling with children or large suitcases.

Do not assume that a flight arriving in Beijing will land at PEK. Always check whether your ticket shows PEK or PKX.

For sightseeing and destination planning, explore our Beijing Travel Guide.

4. Shanghai Airports: PVG vs. SHA

Shanghai also has two major airports: Pudong and Hongqiao. They serve different parts of the city's air travel network and are not interchangeable for airport transfers.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is located east of central Shanghai, in the Pudong area.

Airport code: PVG

Best for: Many international arrivals and departures, as well as flights specifically scheduled through Pudong.

Getting to central Shanghai:

• Metro: Metro Line 2 connects Pudong Airport with central Shanghai and other parts of the network. Check the operating timetable and your final destination before traveling.

• Maglev: The Shanghai Maglev connects Pudong Airport with Longyang Road, where passengers can transfer to the metro.

• Taxi: Official taxi ranks are available outside the terminals.

• Ride-hailing: Use a supported app and follow the airport's designated pickup instructions.

• Private transfer: A convenient choice for direct hotel transfers or arrivals with substantial luggage.

Because Pudong is relatively far from many central neighborhoods, allow sufficient time for the journey.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is located closer to the western side of central Shanghai.

Airport code: SHA

Best for: Domestic flights and journeys involving Hongqiao Railway Station, although the actual flight and rail arrangements should always be checked.

Getting to central Shanghai:

• Metro: Several metro lines serve the Hongqiao transport hub and connect with the wider city network.

• Taxi: Follow the official signs to the taxi pickup area.

• Ride-hailing: Check the designated pickup point in your app.

• Private transfer: Useful for travelers with multiple bags or those heading directly to a hotel.

Hongqiao is particularly convenient if your onward journey involves the railway station at the same transport hub.

PVG or SHA: Which Shanghai Airport Is Better?

The most important difference is location and your onward travel plan.

If you are flying internationally into Shanghai and then taking a high-speed train to another city, check whether your arrival and departure use the same airport or transport hub.

Do not assume that transferring between PVG and SHA is a short or simple connection.

5. Chengdu Airports: TFU vs. CTU

Chengdu is another city where travelers should pay close attention to airport codes.

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is located southeast of central Chengdu.

Airport code: TFU

Best for: Flights scheduled to arrive at or depart from Tianfu Airport.

Getting to Chengdu city:

• Metro: Airport rail and metro connections provide access to the city. Check the current route and transfer requirements for your hotel.

• Taxi: Use the official taxi pickup area.

• Ride-hailing: Follow the pickup point displayed in your app.

• Private transfer: Particularly convenient after a long flight or when traveling with luggage.

Because TFU is outside the main urban center, allow additional time for the journey compared with an airport closer to downtown.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is located southwest of central Chengdu.

Airport code: CTU

Best for: Flights scheduled through Shuangliu Airport.

Getting to the city:

• Metro: Shuangliu is connected to Chengdu's metro network.

• Taxi: Official taxi ranks are available.

• Ride-hailing: Use the app's designated pickup area.

• Private transfer: Useful for direct transfers to hotels or onward sightseeing.

TFU or CTU: What Should Travelers Check?

Before booking a domestic connection or arranging a hotel pickup, check the airport code carefully.

A journey arriving at TFU and departing from CTU involves an airport-to-airport transfer across Chengdu. It should not be treated as a normal same-airport connection.

Allow enough time for:

• Leaving the arrival airport.

• Collecting checked luggage.

• Traveling across the city.

• Checking in at the second airport.

• Completing security procedures.

If you are planning a multi-city itinerary through Chengdu, confirm both airport codes before finalizing your domestic flights.

For a longer journey through Sichuan, explore our 8-Day Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou and Chongqing Tour.

6. Airport Transfers in Other Popular China Destinations

Beyond Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, several other airports are particularly relevant to travelers visiting China's historic cities, natural landscapes and cultural destinations.

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)

Airport code: XIY

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport serves Xi'an, the historic capital of several Chinese dynasties and the gateway to the Terracotta Warriors.

Transfer options:

• Airport metro or rail services, depending on the current operating arrangements.

• Airport shuttle services where available.

• Official taxis.

• Ride-hailing services.

• Pre-arranged private transfers.

When traveling to the city center, check your hotel's exact location and the most suitable station or pickup point.

For travelers visiting the Terracotta Warriors, remember that the archaeological site is outside the central urban area. An airport-to-hotel transfer and a separate sightseeing journey may need to be planned.

Discover more in our Xi'an Muslim Quarter and Food Guide.

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG)

Airport code: CKG

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport serves the municipality of Chongqing, a major destination known for its mountain landscape, riverside scenery and distinctive food culture.

Transfer options:

• Metro connections to the urban rail network.

• Official airport taxis.

• Ride-hailing services.

• Private transfers.

Chongqing's mountainous geography and complex road network mean that travel distance alone may not accurately indicate journey time. Check the actual route to your hotel rather than relying only on a map's straight-line distance.

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL)

Airport code: KWL

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport serves Guilin in Guangxi, a popular gateway to the region's karst landscapes and the Li River.

Transfer options:

• Airport shuttle services, subject to current routes and schedules.

• Official taxis.

• Ride-hailing where available.

• Pre-arranged private transfers.

If your hotel is in Yangshuo rather than central Guilin, plan the transfer separately. Yangshuo is a different destination, and the journey is considerably longer than a typical airport-to-city-center transfer.

For travelers combining Guilin and Yangshuo, a pre-arranged vehicle can simplify the journey, particularly when carrying luggage.

Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG)

Airport code: DYG

Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport is the main airport serving Zhangjiajie, a destination famous for its dramatic sandstone pillars and national park landscapes.

Transfer options:

• Local taxi services.

• Ride-hailing where available.

• Pre-arranged hotel or private transfers.

One important planning detail: Zhangjiajie City and the Wulingyuan Scenic Area are not the same location.

If your hotel is in Wulingyuan, do not book a transfer based only on the airport and city names. Confirm the hotel's full address and arrange transport to the correct area.

For travelers visiting the national park, a coordinated transfer can be especially useful after arrival.

Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)

Airport code: KMG

Kunming Changshui International Airport serves Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province and a major gateway to destinations such as Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La.

Transfer options:

• Metro or airport rail connections.

• Official taxis.

• Ride-hailing services.

• Private transfers.

If Kunming is your first stop before continuing to Dali or Lijiang, compare the airport arrival time with your onward train or flight schedule.

For a multi-city Yunnan itinerary, it is often easier to plan each transfer as part of the overall route rather than arranging every journey separately.

Explore our 10-Day Yunnan Discovery Tour for inspiration.

Lhasa Gonggar International Airport (LXA)

Airport code: LXA

Lhasa Gonggar International Airport serves Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Transfer options:

• Airport shuttle services, depending on current schedules.

• Official airport taxis.

• Pre-arranged private transfers.

Lhasa is at a high altitude, so travelers should plan their arrival day carefully. Avoid scheduling a demanding sightseeing program immediately after landing.

A comfortable transfer to your hotel and time to rest can be a sensible way to begin a Tibet journey.

If you are planning a longer Tibet itinerary, consider the route, arrival time and altitude adjustment period together rather than treating the airport transfer as an isolated journey.

7. How to Get from a Chinese Airport to the City

Most major Chinese airports offer several ways to reach the city. The best option depends on your arrival time, luggage, destination and familiarity with local transport.

Option 1: Airport Metro or Rail

Metro and airport rail services are often convenient for independent travelers.

Advantages:

• Generally clear route information and station signage in major airports.

• No need to negotiate a road journey.

• Useful for travelers with light luggage.

• Connections to city metro networks in many major destinations.

Things to consider:

• Some stations may require transfers.

• Not every hotel is close to a metro station.

• Late-night and early-morning service may be limited.

• Large suitcases can make crowded trains less comfortable.

Check the current operating hours and last-train times before choosing this option.

Option 2: Official Airport Taxi

Official taxis are available at many major Chinese airports.

To use one:

1. Follow the airport signs for the official taxi queue.

2. Avoid unsolicited offers from drivers inside the terminal.

3. Have your destination address written in Chinese.

4. Confirm that the meter is being used.

5. Keep the receipt if you need it.

Taxis are useful when you want a direct journey without navigating public transport.

However, some drivers may not speak English, and payment options can vary. Confirm how you can pay before starting the journey.

Option 3: Ride-Hailing Apps

Ride-hailing is a practical choice for travelers who prefer to book a car through their phone.

Foreign visitors can use services such as DiDi-Greater China and ride-hailing options accessed through Alipay or WeChat, subject to account setup and local availability.

A typical booking process is:

1. Open your ride-hailing app.

2. Confirm your current pickup point.

3. Enter your hotel or destination.

4. Select a suitable vehicle.

5. Review the booking details.

6. Follow the app's instructions to reach the pickup area.

7. Check the vehicle's license plate before getting in.

Airport pickup zones can be different from ordinary roadside pickup points. Follow the app instructions and airport signage.

For a detailed explanation, read our Guide to Using China's Ride-Hailing Apps.

Option 4: Pre-Arranged Private Airport Transfer

A private transfer is a useful option when you want your arrival transportation organized before landing.

It can be particularly suitable for:

• First-time visitors to China.

• Families with children.

• Travelers with several suitcases.

• Groups arriving together.

• Late-night or early-morning arrivals.

• Travelers heading directly to a destination outside the city center.

• Visitors who prefer not to arrange transport after a long flight.

Depending on the service, your driver may meet you at an agreed pickup point and take you directly to your hotel or next destination.

When arranging a transfer, provide:

• Your flight number.

• Arrival date and local arrival time.

• Airport code and full airport name.

• Terminal, if known.

• Number of passengers.

• Number and size of suitcases.

• Hotel name and full address.

Always confirm the meeting point and what happens if your flight is delayed.

8. Airport Transfers for Multi-City China Itineraries

China is a large country, and many international visitors combine several cities in one trip.

A well-planned itinerary should consider not only which cities to visit but also how to move between airports, railway stations and hotels.

Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu – Guilin – Shanghai

This classic route combines China's imperial history, regional culture, natural scenery and modern city life.

When planning the journey:

• Check whether your Beijing flight arrives at PEK or PKX.

• Confirm the airport or railway station used for your Xi'an connection.

• Check whether Chengdu flights use TFU or CTU.

• Confirm the correct airport for Guilin.

• In Shanghai, distinguish between PVG and SHA.

The airport code matters at every stage, particularly when arranging pickups and domestic connections.

Chengdu – Jiuzhaigou – Chongqing

This route combines Chengdu's food and cultural experiences, Jiuzhaigou's natural scenery and Chongqing's urban landscapes.

Depending on your itinerary, you may use airports, railway stations and road transfers at different stages.

Do not assume that every destination is reached by a direct airport transfer. Some scenic areas require additional ground transportation.

Kunming – Dali – Lijiang – Shangri-La

Yunnan itineraries often combine several destinations with different transport arrangements.

Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) is a major gateway to the province. Travelers may continue to Dali, Lijiang or Shangri-La by train, flight or private vehicle, depending on the route.

Plan your arrival and onward journey together, especially if your international flight arrives late in the day.

Beijing – Xi'an – Lhasa

A Tibet journey requires additional planning.

Travelers should confirm their arrival arrangements, onward transportation and applicable Tibet travel requirements before departure.

For Lhasa, the airport code is LXA. Because of the altitude, it is also important to leave enough time for rest after arrival.

9. Airport-to-Airport Transfers: What You Need to Know

One of the most common mistakes when planning a China trip is assuming that two flights in the same city use the same airport.

This is particularly important in Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu.

Beijing: PEK to PKX

A transfer between Beijing Capital and Beijing Daxing involves crossing a large metropolitan area.

Allow sufficient time for:

• Collecting luggage.

• Leaving the first airport.

• Traveling to the second airport.

• Checking in again.

• Completing security and departure procedures.

Do not plan a tight connection between separate tickets.

Shanghai: PVG to SHA

A transfer between Pudong and Hongqiao is also a cross-city journey.

Although public transport connects the airports with Shanghai's wider network, the journey can take considerable time.

If you have an international arrival at PVG followed by a domestic flight from SHA, allow enough time for immigration, baggage collection, airport transfer and check-in.

Chengdu: TFU to CTU

Chengdu Tianfu and Shuangliu are separate airports in different parts of the city.

If your flights use different airports, plan the ground transfer in advance and check the travel time at the actual time of day.

Important Advice for Separate Tickets

If you book two flights separately, the airlines may not protect your onward connection if the first flight is delayed.

For a self-transfer, consider:

• Whether you need to collect and recheck your luggage.

• Whether you must pass immigration.

• The check-in deadline for the next flight.

• Whether you need to change airports.

• The time required to travel between terminals or airports.

When possible, choose a longer connection or a through-ticket that offers a more coordinated transfer arrangement.

10. Practical Airport Transfer Tips for Foreign Travelers

A little preparation can make your arrival in China much easier.

Save Your Hotel Address in Chinese

English hotel names are not always recognized accurately by maps or ride-hailing apps.

Before departure, ask your hotel for its full Chinese address.

Save it on your phone and take a screenshot in case your internet connection is unavailable.

Prepare Your Payment Methods

Set up your preferred payment methods before arriving.

International visitors can use eligible foreign bank cards through supported services, but payment acceptance varies by platform and transaction.

Keep a backup method available, such as another supported card or a small amount of RMB cash.

Check Your Internet Connection

Airport Wi-Fi may require registration or verification.

If you plan to use mobile data, confirm your SIM or eSIM arrangement before arrival.

You will need a working connection to use ride-hailing apps, navigation services and online travel information.

Keep Your Flight Details Accessible

Save your flight number, arrival time, airport code and terminal information.

If your flight is delayed or your arrival terminal changes, check the latest information before confirming your transfer.

Confirm Your Driver and Vehicle

If you book a ride-hailing service, check that the license plate matches the booking details.

If you have arranged a private transfer, confirm the driver's name, meeting point and contact method in advance.

Allow Extra Time During Busy Periods

Traffic can be heavy around major airports, especially during peak travel periods.

A journey that looks short on a map may take longer during rush hour.

For important onward flights or train departures, leave a comfortable time buffer.

11. Which Airport Transfer Option Is Best for You?

The most suitable transfer depends on your travel situation.

There is no single best option for every arrival. Consider your flight time, hotel location, luggage and onward schedule.

12. Frequently Asked Questions About China Airport Codes and Transfers

What is the airport code for Beijing, China?

Beijing has two major airports. Beijing Capital International Airport uses the code PEK, while Beijing Daxing International Airport uses PKX. BJS is a city code that may represent Beijing as a general flight destination.

What is the airport code for Shanghai?

Shanghai has two major airports. Shanghai Pudong International Airport uses PVG, and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport uses SHA.

Which airport should I fly into in Shanghai?

It depends on your flight schedule and onward travel plans. Pudong (PVG) is a major international gateway, while Hongqiao (SHA) is closer to western Shanghai and the Hongqiao Railway Station transport hub. Always compare the full journey rather than choosing by airport name alone.

What are the airport codes for Chengdu?

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport uses TFU, while Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport uses CTU. Check your ticket carefully because the two airports are in different locations.

What is the airport code for Xi'an?

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport uses the code XIY.

What is the airport code for Guilin?

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport uses the code KWL.

What is the airport code for Zhangjiajie?

Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport uses the code DYG.

What is the airport code for Lhasa, Tibet?

Lhasa Gonggar International Airport uses the code LXA.

What is the easiest way to get from a Chinese airport to a hotel?

For independent travelers, metro services, official taxis and ride-hailing apps are common options. A pre-arranged private transfer can be more convenient for families, groups, late arrivals or travelers with substantial luggage.

Can foreigners use DiDi at Chinese airports?

Foreign visitors can use DiDi-Greater China, subject to account registration, payment setup and local service availability. Follow the app's airport pickup instructions and confirm the vehicle details before boarding.

How do I arrange an airport transfer in China?

You can use an official taxi rank, a supported ride-hailing app, an airport shuttle where available or a pre-arranged private transfer. For a private transfer, provide your flight number, arrival date, airport, passenger count, luggage details and hotel address.

How much time should I allow for an airport transfer in China?

There is no single journey time for every airport. The distance, traffic, transport mode, terminal and time of day all matter. Check the current route and allow additional time during busy periods or when connecting to another flight or train.

Do I need to change airports when flying between Chinese cities?

Not usually, but it can happen when separate flights are booked through different airports in the same city. Always compare the three-letter airport codes on both tickets. Beijing (PEK/PKX), Shanghai (PVG/SHA) and Chengdu (TFU/CTU) are particularly important examples.

Plan Your China Journey with the Right Airport and Transfer Arrangements

Choosing the correct airport is one of the first steps toward a smooth China trip. Knowing the difference between PEK and PKX, PVG and SHA, or TFU and CTU can help you avoid unnecessary transfers and make better decisions when booking flights.

Once your airport is confirmed, consider the journey beyond the terminal: how far your hotel is, which transport options operate at your arrival time and whether you need a connection to another city.

For a short city stay, public transport or ride-hailing may be enough. For a multi-city journey, family holiday or trip involving several airports and railway stations, coordinated transfers can make the experience much easier.

Explore our China Travel Guide, browse our China Travel Itineraries, or discover Sunda Travel's China Private Tours.

If you would like to combine several destinations with airport pickups, hotel transfers and sightseeing, explore our Tailor-Made China Tours.

Start with the right airport. Plan the connections carefully. Enjoy a smoother journey through China with Sunda Travel.