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Tongren Airport

About the Airport

Tongren Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Tongren Fenghuang Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to a world of mystical mountains and ancient Chinese traditions. Located at the unique junction of two provinces—Guizhou and Hunan—it serves as the ideal starting point for travelers eager to see the famous Fenghuang Ancient City and the sacred Mount Fanjingshan. Instead of exhausting transfers from major metropolises, you land just an hour's drive from the region's main treasures, immediately immersing yourself in an authentic Asian atmosphere.

IATA Code TEN
ICAO Code ZUTR
City Tongren (Guizhou)
Distance to Centre 21 km
Status Domestic (Regional)
Annual Passengers Approx. 1.2 million
Schedule Available online

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Unique location on the border of cultures. The airport is located within the Songtao County territory, making it a convenient hub for accessing several iconic sites at once. From here, it is equally easy to reach both the city of Tongren in Guizhou and the "Venice of China"—Fenghuang Ancient City in Hunan province (only about 30-40 km away).

Fast access to natural wonders. This is the nearest airport to Mount Fanjingshan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Special tourist shuttles and taxis allow you to reach the foot of this fantastic mountain significantly faster than traveling by train.

Compactness and comfort. The small size of the terminal eliminates the long queues and walks typical of giant hubs. Passengers appreciate the cozy atmosphere, the presence of souvenir shops featuring crafts from the local Miao and Dong ethnic groups, as well as the picturesque views of karst hills right upon landing.

Contact Information

Below is the main contact information for Tongren Airport (TEN), which will help you plan your trip and navigate upon arrival. Please note that for the most accurate flight data, it is recommended to contact your airline directly.

  • Official Website: Currently, Tongren Airport does not have its own official website. Up-to-date flight schedule information is best checked on airline websites or reliable travel portals.
  • Inquiry Service Phone: +86 0856-5938066 (language restrictions may apply; knowledge of Chinese is recommended).
  • Airport Address: Daxing Town, Songtao Miao Autonomous County, Tongren, Guizhou, China. The airport is located approximately 27 kilometres from the city of Tongren.
  • Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the phone for communication.
  • Social Media: The airport does not have official pages on international social networks.
  • Lost Luggage Information: In case of luggage issues (loss or damage), you must first contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly at the airport. You can clarify information by calling: +86 0856-5938026.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance, please use the main airport inquiry phone number.

How to Get to the Airport

You can get to Tongren Fenghuang Airport (TEN) from the city of Tongren in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The airport serves not only Tongren but also the popular Fenghuang Ancient City, so transport connections are well developed.

Public Transport: Shuttle Buses
The most economical way to get to the airport is to use special shuttle buses. They run between the airport, Tongren city centre, and Fenghuang Ancient City. This is a convenient option for solo travelers and those looking to save money. The bus schedule is often linked to flight arrival and departure times, so it is recommended to check current information in advance. The bus ride to Tongren centre usually takes about 40-50 minutes.

Taxi and Private Transfer
For maximum convenience, especially if you are traveling with family or a large amount of luggage, a taxi is the best choice. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take approximately 30-40 minutes, excluding traffic. It is recommended to use official taxis and ensure the driver switches on the meter. An even more reliable option is to book a private transfer in advance. This guarantees a fixed price and a meet-and-greet at the appointed time.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to actively explore the region, car rental will provide you with complete freedom of movement. You can rent a car both in the city and at the airport itself. Please note that to drive a car in China, foreign tourists generally require a local driving license. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, parking is available with zones for short-term and long-term stays.

Useful Tips and Alternative Airports
When planning your route, always allow extra time for the journey, especially during peak hours. If you do not speak Chinese, it is useful to have the address of your destination written in Chinese characters. It is also worth considering alternative air hubs in the region that might be more convenient for certain routes. Among them are Zhijiang Airport (HJJ) and Biancheng Airport (Xiangxi Biancheng) (DXJ).

Terminals and Map

Tongren Fenghuang Airport (TEN) is a modern and compact aviation hub served by one passenger terminal. This structure makes it extremely convenient for navigation, as all processes, from check-in to boarding, are concentrated in one building. The terminal serves all domestic flights arriving in and departing from the region.

The terminal layout is simple and intuitive. Generally, the building has two main levels: the ground floor is used for the arrivals area, baggage claim, and check-in counters, while the first floor is the departure zone. It is here that passengers go through security control and enter the airside area with boarding gates, small shops, and cafes. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings.

Completing all pre-flight procedures at Tongren Airport usually takes little time thanks to its compactness and lower passenger traffic compared to major hubs in China. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly check in for your flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Getting lost here is practically impossible. All main zones—check-in, security, boarding gates—are located logically and sequentially, making the stay at the airport as comfortable as possible even for first-time visitors.

Airport History

The history of Tongren Fenghuang Airport (TEN) is a clear example of how an infrastructure facility can become a catalyst for tourism development in an entire region. The airport was opened on October 28, 2001, and originally bore the name Daxing. Its main task was to improve transport accessibility for the mountainous Guizhou province.

A key moment in the airport's history was 2009, when it was renamed Tongren Fenghuang. This was a strategic decision aimed at attracting tourists to one of the most famous attractions in the neighbouring Hunan province—Fenghuang Ancient City. Such a name highlighted the unique location and mission of the airport—to serve the tourist flows of two provinces at once.

Over time, as the region's popularity grew, the need for expansion arose. In 2014, a large-scale reconstruction was completed: a new, more spacious terminal was opened, and the runway was extended. This modernization allowed for handling a greater number of flights and passengers, giving new impetus to tourism development not only in Fenghuang but also near Mount Fanjingshan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China.

One of the most interesting facts about Tongren Fenghuang Airport is its unique "inter-provincial" role. It is one of the few airports in the country that, while located in one province (Guizhou), bears the name of an attraction from another (Hunan). Today, it is an important transport hub for both civil aviation and military needs, successfully fulfilling its mission of connecting remote yet incredibly beautiful corners of China with the rest of the world.

Services and Amenities

Tongren Fenghuang Airport (TEN) offers its passengers a set of essential services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminal, travelers will find several dining establishments, including cafes and small restaurants where one can have a snack featuring local and international cuisine. Shops are also available where you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and newspapers.

For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, and waiting halls are equipped with special zones for charging electronic devices. Financial services are represented by ATMs and currency exchange points, allowing you to settle monetary issues right upon arrival or before departure. For those who value enhanced comfort, premium lounges or VIP halls with a more secluded atmosphere may be available.

The airport caters to all categories of travelers. Mother and child rooms are provided for passengers with small children. People with disabilities can count on special assistance and a barrier-free environment, including ramps and adapted restrooms. In case of necessity, a medical point operates in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, several accommodation options are located in its immediate vicinity. For business travelers, basic business services may be available, however, the availability of full-fledged conference rooms is better clarified in advance.

Where to Eat

At Tongren Fenghuang Airport (TEN), passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the selection here is not as wide as in major international hubs, the available establishments allow for a comfortable time while waiting for a flight, offering both quick snacks and hearty dishes.

For those wishing to have a substantial lunch, a Chinese cuisine restaurant typically operates in the main terminal, usually before the security zone (landside). This is an excellent opportunity to try local dishes of Guizhou province, known for their vibrant sour and spicy flavours. Such a meal will not just be about satisfying hunger, but a true gastronomic introduction to this part of China. Look out for traditional noodles or rice dishes with local specialties.

If time is limited, several cafes and eateries are at your service. Here you can order coffee, tea, pastries, sandwiches, or other light snacks. Such places are ideal for a quick bite. Small outlets selling beverages and snacks may also be available in the sterile area (airside), after passing security control, but the main selection is concentrated in the general departure hall.

Regarding practical points: be prepared that prices at the airport will be noticeably higher than in the city. Opening hours of most catering establishments are linked to the flight schedule: they open in the morning and close after the departure of the last plane. Specialized menus (vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal) may be difficult to find at Tongren Airport. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are recommended to carry their own snacks.

Traveler Tips

To ensure your journey through Tongren Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. The airport serves the city of Tongren and is an important regional transport hub. Proper preparation will help you save time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Tongren Airport is regional, so queues here are usually shorter than in major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure. Many airlines operating in China offer convenient online check-in. Use it to select a seat in advance and receive a boarding pass, but remember that luggage must still be dropped off at a designated counter.

Passing Security Control: Be prepared for standard screening procedures. All electronics, such as laptops and tablets, must be removed from your bag into a separate tray. Liquids in hand luggage are permitted in containers no larger than 100 ml each, and all must be packed in a single transparent bag. Prepare these items in advance to speed up the process.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: window seats offer beautiful views, while aisle seats offer more space and freedom of movement. It is prohibited to pack sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous items in hand luggage. Always check the rules of your specific airline to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Transfers: If you have a connecting flight, carefully follow the "Transit" signs in the terminal building. Be sure to clarify with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again for the next flight, as rules may vary.

Savings and Flight Delays: To save a little, bring an empty water bottle with you—after passing security control, you can fill it at drinking fountains. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative to find out about the new departure time and possible compensation (for example, meals or beverages). The airport has cafes and rest areas where you can comfortably spend time waiting.

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