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Nanjing Lukou International Airport to Nanjing City Center

Every transport option from NKG — cost, journey time, and which one to pick. Updated for 2026 travellers arriving in China.

Airport
NKG
Country
China
Fastest
35-50 min
Cheapest
CNY 7-9 (~USD 1)

How to get from NKG to Nanjing

OptionCostJourney time
Metro Line S1 (Airport Express)CNY 7-9 (~USD 1)35-50 min
Airport shuttle bus (Line 1-5)CNY 20 (~USD 2.80)55-75 min
DiDi (ride-hail app)CNY 100-160 (USD 14-22)35-55 min
Airport taxi (metered)CNY 130-180 (USD 18-25)35-55 min

NKG is 40km SE of Nanjing centre. Metro Line S1 (Airport Express) opened 2014 — direct to Nanjing South Railway Station in 35 min for CNY 7-9. DiDi CNY 100-160 standard. Nanjing is one of China's "Four Great Ancient Capitals" — served as capital during 10 dynasties. UNESCO Ming Xiaoling tomb + Confucius Temple + WW2 history. For 6h layovers: Confucius Temple + Nanjing City Wall. For 12+ hours: add Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum + Purple Mountain area. Rich cultural + historical significance.

Skip the queue — pre-book an arrival transfer

A fixed-price transfer meets you inside arrivals with a name-board. No haggling, no cash, no scam risk after a long flight into NKG.

Getting out of Nanjing (NKG)

Skip the taxi rank and lock in your fare before you land.

Pre-book a fixed-price transfer

Our pick

Driver waits at arrivals with your name, tracks your flight, and the price you see is the price you pay. English-speaking, fixed price. No surge, no haggling at 2am.

Check transfer prices
Renting a car instead? Compare rentals with free cancellation.

Where to stay near Nanjing

Comparing hotels across Nanjing — filter by neighbourhood, price, and distance from Nanjing Lukou International Airport.

Common questions

How much does a taxi from Nanjing Lukou International Airport to Nanjing cost?

CNY 130-180 (USD 18-25) — expect the higher end during rush hour or bad weather. Pre-book a fixed-price transfer if you want price certainty.

What's the cheapest way from NKG to Nanjing?

Metro Line S1 (Airport Express) at CNY 7-9 (~USD 1)35-50 min to central Nanjing.

Do I need to buy a visa on arrival in China?

144-hour transit visa free at NKG for 53+ countries. Must connect to a THIRD country.