Changchun (Railway Station)

It is important for passengers to know that the station has two main exits: South and North, which are connected by an underground passage. This allows for easy movement between the squares without stepping outside. Waiting halls are located on the upper floors, and access to platforms is through turnstiles. The station operates a strict security check system, so it is recommended to pay close attention to the navigation signs, which are duplicated in English.

• Official Website: 12306.cn (unified portal for China Railways)
• Helpline: +86 12306 (unified hotline, service in Chinese and English)
• Address: Changbaishan Road, Kuancheng District, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
• Opening Hours: 24 hours (ticket counters may have technical breaks)
• Luggage Storage: Available in waiting halls and on the basement level, open from 06:00 to 22:00
• Accessibility: The station is equipped with elevators, escalators, and dedicated restrooms for passengers with reduced mobility; escort services are available upon prior request.

Reaching Changchun Railway Station is possible via several convenient methods, as it is integrated into the city's transport network.

The fastest and most reliable option is the Metro. The Changchun Railway Station metro stop is served by Line 1 (Red) and Line 3 (Light Rail). Line 4 also passes nearby (North Exit). A trip from the city centre will take approximately 15–20 minutes.

For those who prefer ground transport, numerous bus routes (e.g., No. 6, No. 66, No. 306) lead to the station, stopping at both the South and North Squares. A taxi ride from central districts will cost approximately 15–25 CNY and take 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.

If you are arriving at Longjia Airport, the most convenient option is to take the high-speed intercity train, which will deliver you directly to the railway station in just 15 minutes.

Changchun Railway Station offers a wide range of services for a comfortable wait before your journey. The building features spacious waiting halls equipped with ample seating. For business class passengers and special cardholders, there are separate VIP lounges with comfortable furnishings.

Available to travellers:

• Ticket counters and automatic terminals (machines often accept only Chinese ID cards; international visitors are advised to use the staffed counters).
• Free hot water (boiling water) dispensers — a traditional and very useful service in China.
• Mobile device charging points (may be fee-based).
• Clean restrooms and mother-and-baby rooms.
• Smoking zones (usually strictly regulated).

Wi-Fi is available throughout the station, though connecting often requires a Chinese phone number to receive an SMS verification code.

It is impossible to go hungry within the station grounds or its immediate vicinity. Inside the building, especially on the upper levels and in the underground passage, there are popular fast-food chains such as KFC, McDonald’s, and Dicos. This is an excellent option for a quick and safe meal with an average bill of around 30–50 CNY.

For those wishing to try local cuisine, there are many small cafes offering beef noodles, dumplings, and traditional Chinese snacks. If you have time, it is recommended to exit to the South Square: in the surrounding shopping centres and on Changbaishan Road, the selection of restaurants is significantly wider, and prices are often lower than inside the station.

The history of Changchun Railway Station is inextricably linked with the development of railways in Manchuria. The first station building was constructed back in 1907 and served as a symbol of the city for a long time. Throughout the 20th century, the station was repeatedly rebuilt and expanded, reflecting the economic growth of the region.

A key stage was the massive reconstruction in the early 2010s, when the old building was demolished, and a modern futuristic complex capable of servicing high-speed trains was erected in its place. In 2013, new waiting halls and renovated platforms were opened, transforming the station into one of the most modern transport hubs in the Northeast. Today, the station plays a critical role in logistics, linking Changchun with China's key economic centres.

When planning a trip through Changchun Railway Station, please note that the boarding procedure in China resembles that of an airport. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 1–1.5 hours before your train departs to calmly pass through security checks and ticket control.

A few important tips:

• Documents: Always keep your passport at hand. Tickets are often linked to your ID, and to pass through turnstiles, international visitors usually need to use the staffed aisles (Manual Lane).
• Luggage: It is prohibited to carry knives, scissors, flammable sprays, and unmarked high-capacity power banks.
• Boarding: Access to the platform closes 5 minutes before the train departs. Watch the gate numbers on the large electronic display boards.
• Overnight Waiting: The station is open 24 hours, but most shops close for the night. If you have a long layover, it is better to book a hotel nearby.