Changbaishan Airport

Changbaishan Airport (NBS) is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the enchanting world of forests and mountains in Jilin Province. It is China's first "forest" tourism airport, surrounded on all sides by dense taiga, creating a unique atmosphere before you even step out of the terminal. Travellers often remark on the incredible views during landing: the aircraft seems to glide over the tops of ancient trees as it approaches the foot of the majestic Changbai Mountain (Mount Paektu).

Airport Features and Highlights:

• Unique Location: The airport is situated in the very heart of a nature reserve. The air here is always fresh and filled with the scent of pine needles, while the terminal blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
• Proximity to Resorts: This is the ideal arrival point for winter sports enthusiasts. The popular Wanda Changbaishan International Resort is located just a 15–20 minute drive away; many hotels provide complimentary shuttles directly from the arrivals exit.
• Cosiness and Comfort: Despite its compact size, the single terminal is equipped with everything necessary. There is none of the hustle and bustle of giant hubs, and navigation is intuitively clear, allowing you to quickly complete all formalities and head out towards your adventures.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Changbaishan Airport (NBS). We recommend verifying the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: The most accurate and up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can be found on the official website: http://cbs.jla.com.cn/. The site is primarily in Chinese; an online translator may be required.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +86 439 625 9166.
• Airport Address: Fusong County, Baishan, Jilin Province, China. The airport is located in Fusong County, approximately a 30-40 minute drive from the main tourist areas of the Changbai Mountains.
• Email: A public email address for general inquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website or call by phone.
• Lost & Found: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the baggage tracing service at: +86 439 625 9123 or speak directly to your airline representative at the airport.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main inquiry service at the phone number listed above.

Changbaishan Airport (NBS) serves as the main aerial gateway to the famous Changbai Mountains and surrounding resorts. Getting from here to tourist centres or, conversely, from the city to the airport can be done in several ways, each with its own features.

Public Transport. The most popular and budget-friendly option is the specialised shuttle buses. Their routes connect the airport with major tourist zones, such as the towns of Songjianghe (near the West Slope) and Erdaobaihe (near the North Slope). Shuttle schedules are often linked to flight arrival and departure times, and the ticket price is usually around 25–45 CNY. There is no direct metro or train connection to the airport, so travelling by rail will require an additional transfer to the nearest station.

Taxi and Private Transfer. Taxis are always available at the arrivals terminal exit. This is a convenient and fast way to get to your hotel, especially if you are travelling with luggage or a small group. The journey to the main resort areas at the foot of the mountains will take from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. The cost of a taxi ride is significantly higher and can vary from 150 to 300 CNY depending on the distance to your hotel and the season. It is recommended to have your destination address written in Chinese. Many hotels also offer a pre-booked transfer service, which is the most comfortable, albeit more expensive, option.

Car Rental. For those who value independence and plan to actively explore the region, renting a car can be an excellent solution. Rental company counters can be found at the airport. However, it is worth remembering that for driving in China, foreign tourists generally require a Chinese driving licence. This option is more suitable for travellers familiar with local traffic regulations.

Airport Parking. If you are travelling to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking complexes are at your service. Zones for both short-term and long-term parking are provided here, which is convenient if you are flying away for a few days.

Changbaishan Airport (NBS) is a modern and compact aviation hub designed for traveller convenience. Its structure is extremely simple and clear, allowing tourists to orient themselves quickly without any stress.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all flights — both domestic and international (primarily seasonal and charter). Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals: all procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place in one building. The terminal layout is intuitive: departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, and signs are duplicated in English.

The departure zone is located in the main part of the terminal. Immediately after entering, you find yourself in the check-in hall where airline counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, after which they enter the secure area with waiting lounges and boarding gates. The arrival zone is located separately, typically on the ground floor. After disembarking from the aircraft, passengers follow signs to the baggage claim hall, and then to the city exit where taxis and buses await.

Check-in and security procedures at Changbaishan Airport usually proceed very quickly due to its small size and the efficient work of the staff. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport no later than 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be more than sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing. For navigation, simply follow the standard route: check-in counters → security control → your boarding gate. Getting lost here is practically impossible.

The history of Changbaishan Airport (NBS) is inextricably linked with the development of tourism in one of the most picturesque corners of China. The air harbour, located near the city of Baishan, was built to ensure convenient access to the famous Changbai Mountain range. Construction began in July 2006, and as early as 3 August 2008, the airport officially opened, receiving its first flight. It became the country's first "forest tourism airport", a concept which implied maximum integration into the surrounding natural landscape.

Since its opening, the airport has faced incredibly rapid growth in passenger traffic — the region's popularity exceeded the boldest forecasts. The initial infrastructure quickly reached its capacity limit, which was the reason for launching a large-scale expansion project in 2017. During the reconstruction, the runway was lengthened, the aircraft parking apron was expanded, and, most importantly, a new, more spacious terminal was built. The modernisation, completed in 2021, allowed for a significant increase in capacity and raised the level of passenger service.

Changbaishan Airport is unique not only in its purpose but also in its location. Situated at an altitude of over 800 metres above sea level, it often operates in challenging meteorological conditions, especially during snowy winters, which requires high professionalism from its team. Its opening became a truly landmark event for local tourism, reducing travel time to the mountain beauties from several hours of exhausting driving to a comfortable flight. Today, it serves as a modern and convenient gateway to the world of amazing nature and the distinctive culture of the country's northeast.

Changbaishan Airport (NBS), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to ensure quick and convenient passage through all pre-flight procedures. For travellers, there are cafes and small restaurants where you can have a snack with local and European dishes, as well as enjoy a coffee. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, Changbaishan regional products, and travel essentials.

For comfortable waiting, the airport is equipped with general halls and a VIP lounge, offering a more secluded atmosphere and additional services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous power outlets and special charging stations allow you to stay connected at all times. Although there is no full-fledged business centre at the airport, basic conditions for work can be found in the VIP lounge.

Practical services are also provided at Changbaishan Airport. At passengers' disposal are ATMs and currency exchange points, which is particularly convenient for international tourists. In case of feeling unwell, a medical point is available where first aid can be received. For passengers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped, where you can take care of your baby in a calm environment.

The airport is fully adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms. Airport staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance during check-in and boarding. There are no hotels directly within the airport building, however, many accommodation options are located in nearby resort zones, which can be easily reached by taxi or transfer.

Changbaishan Airport (NBS), being a regional air hub serving mainly tourist flows to the Changbai Mountains, offers a compact but sufficient selection of establishments for a snack or a full meal. Unlike large international hubs, the emphasis here is on convenience and an introduction to local cuisine rather than a variety of global chains.

The basis of the menu in local restaurants and cafes consists of dishes from Northeast Chinese cuisine (Dongbei). This is a wonderful opportunity to taste authentic flavours before departure. Look out for dishes such as grilled corn, various dumplings (Jiaozi), or the famous sweet and sour pork in batter (Guobaorou). Noodle soups are also popular, which are excellent for a quick and filling lunch.

For those looking for something more familiar or simply wanting a coffee, there are several cafes in the airport. Here you can order standard hot and cold beverages, pastries, sandwiches, and desserts. This is an ideal option for a light breakfast or a quick snack while waiting for a flight. Additionally, vending machines with drinks and snacks are installed in the terminal.

Most dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal building, both in the public area before security control (landside) and in the departure zone (airside). Their opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so in the early morning or late evening hours, the selection may be limited. Full-service restaurants are most often found in the departure hall.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding specialised vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus (or strictly Halal certified options) may be difficult. It is recommended to choose dishes made from vegetables, rice, or tofu from the main menu and clarify the ingredients with staff. The average price range at the airport is higher than in the city but remains quite moderate compared to major international airports.

Travelling through Changbaishan Airport (NBS) will be an easy and pleasant start to your mountain adventure if you prepare in advance. Here are a few tips to help you orient yourself at the airport of Baishan city and avoid unnecessary hassle.

When to arrive at the airport? Changbaishan Airport is not very large, but during peak seasons, especially in winter, it can get quite crowded. We recommend arriving 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage, pass security control, and find your boarding gate without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control. If possible, complete online check-in to save time. However, be prepared that for some flights in China, you may still need to visit the counter. Security control here, as elsewhere in the country, is very thorough. Take laptops, tablets, and power banks out of your hand luggage in advance. The capacity of power banks must be clearly indicated on the casing, otherwise, they may be confiscated.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If possible, choose a window seat. During take-off and landing, stunning views of the Changbai Mountain range may open up to you. An aisle seat is suitable for those who want the freedom to stand up and stretch their legs during the flight.

Hand Luggage Rules. Strict rules apply in China: it is categorically forbidden to bring lighters and matches on board. Liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Power banks can be carried only in hand luggage; carrying them in checked luggage is prohibited.

Passengers with connections and Customs. Changbaishan Airport is primarily a destination airport, so transit flights are rare here. If you have a transfer to another domestic flight, check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Customs and passport control take place at the first point of arrival in China (for example, in Beijing or Shanghai), so when flying to Baishan from another Chinese city, you will not have to do this again.

Saving time and money. Book a transfer from the airport in advance, especially if you are travelling in winter. This will help avoid inflated prices from private drivers. Take a light snack and a bottle for water, which can be filled after passing security control — this will save money on purchases at the airport.

If the flight is delayed. In case of a flight delay, remain calm. All current information will be displayed on the departure boards. Contact your airline's counter — for long delays, passengers are usually provided with drinks and meals. Having a charged power bank and an interesting book or film will help pass the waiting time.