How to Get from Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG) to Downtown Nanjing

Quick Answer

The best way to get from Lukou Airport to downtown Nanjing for most travelers is the Metro S1 Line + transfer to Line 1 or 3 (50-70 minutes, 7-9 CNY, to Xinjiekou or Confucius Temple). This is the most reliable option, especially during Nanjing's heavy traffic. For convenience with luggage: Taxi or Didi (40-70 minutes, 120-160 CNY to Xinjiekou). For budget with heavy bags: Airport Shuttle Bus Line 1 (60-80 minutes, 20 CNY to Nanjing Railway Station). Note that both Terminal 1 and 2 have direct indoor access to the metro station, which is a major advantage of Lukou Airport.

Taxi from Lukou Airport to Nanjing City Center

Taking a taxi from Lukou Airport to downtown Nanjing is the most convenient door-to-door option. The airport is 35-40 km (22-25 miles) from the city center, with travel time heavily dependent on traffic: 40-70 minutes normally, but 70-100 minutes during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM). Nanjing taxis always use meters and are regulated. The airport expressway toll (10 CNY) is usually added to the meter. Taxis are readily available outside both terminals.

Transport Option	Travel Time	Approximate Cost	Best For	Notes
Taxi (metered)	40-100 minutes	120-160 CNY (≈$17-22 USD)	Families, groups, heavy luggage, convenience	Metered, +20% 11 PM-6 AM, + tolls (10 CNY)
Didi (ride-hailing)	40-100 minutes	110-150 CNY (≈$15-21 USD)	Tech-savvy, have Chinese SIM/app	App shows price, pickup in designated zone
Private Transfer (pre-booked)	40-80 minutes	250-350 CNY (≈$35-49 USD)	Business, families, groups, peace of mind	Fixed price, English-speaking driver, meets at arrivals

How to Get a Taxi at Lukou Airport

Follow signs for Taxi after exiting baggage claim at either terminal. Nanjing has organized taxi queues with staff managing the flow. The system is efficient. Tell the attendant your destination or show your hotel address in Chinese characters. Taxis are clean, meters are used, and receipts are provided. Have 150-200 CNY in smaller bills ready, though most taxis accept Alipay/WeChat Pay. The queue at T2 can be 5-15 minutes during peak arrival times. Never use unauthorized taxis that approach you inside the terminal.

Taxi Fare Breakdown & Expressway Tolls

Daytime (6 AM-11 PM): 11 CNY for first 3 km, then 2.4 CNY/km. After 10 km, 3.6 CNY/km. Night (11 PM-6 AM): 20% surcharge. Airport expressway toll: 10 CNY, added to meter. A typical fare to Xinjiekou is 120-160 CNY. To Confucius Temple: 130-170 CNY. To Nanjing Railway Station: 140-180 CNY. Always get a receipt—it has taxi number and driver info. I once left a bag in a Nanjing taxi; the receipt helped the company locate the driver within an hour.

Late Night Taxi from Lukou Airport

For late night arrivals (after 11:00 PM), taxis are available with a 20% night surcharge. Expect 140-190 CNY to Xinjiekou. The queue is usually shorter at night. This is your most reliable option. Didi is also available but may have limited availability after midnight. The airport shuttle buses have reduced frequency. The metro stops around 10:30-11:00 PM. I've arrived at 1:30 AM and found taxis waiting with minimal wait.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at Lukou on Monday at 8:00 AM. You decide to take a taxi to your hotel near Confucius Temple. You hit rush hour traffic on the Airport Expressway and Zhongshan Road. The 38 km journey takes 95 minutes, costing 155 CNY. You're stressed and tired. Meanwhile, the traveler who took Metro S1 to Nanjing South, then transferred to Line 3, paid 8 CNY and arrived in 60 minutes, then walked 5 minutes to their hotel. During Nanjing's notorious rush hour, the metro is almost always faster than road transport.

Didi (Ride-Hailing) from Lukou Airport

Didi Chuxing operates at Lukou Airport with good availability. Fares are similar to taxis (110-150 CNY to Xinjiekou) but can surge during peak hours. The app provides upfront pricing. You'll need a Chinese SIM card with data, and payment via Alipay/WeChat Pay (linked to Chinese bank account) or international credit card. Pickup is at designated ride-hailing zones—follow signs carefully. Didi offers more car options than taxis, including premium vehicles.

Using Didi as a Foreigner at Lukou: The Reality

Many travel blogs say "Didi is easy." The reality for foreigners: the international Didi app has limited functionality. The Chinese app requires a Chinese phone number. Payment without a Chinese bank card is tricky. The pickup zones can be confusing to find. For tech-savvy travelers with Alipay Tour Pass: it works well. For others: the taxi queue is simpler. I've helped tourists struggling to find their Didi driver at Lukou—the pickup points aren't as well-marked as taxi queues.

Didi vs Taxi: Which is Better from Lukou?

Didi advantages: Upfront pricing, multiple car types (Economy, Comfort, Premium), driver info in app, cashless payment, can schedule rides. Taxi advantages: No app needed, accepts cash, pickup queue is straightforward, drivers know the city better, often faster pickup during peak times. For most tourists: Taxis are simpler. For residents/expats: Didi offers more convenience. During rain or holidays, Didi surge pricing can exceed taxi fares.

Step-by-Step: Booking Didi at Lukou Airport

1. Connect to airport WiFi (requires Chinese number) or use mobile data. 2. Open Didi app. 3. Set pickup to "Lukou Airport T2 - Ride-hailing pickup zone" (or T1). 4. Set destination in Chinese characters. 5. Select car type (Express is cheapest). 6. Confirm booking. 7. Go to designated pickup area (follow signs). 8. Find your car. 9. Show confirmation. Tip: Take a photo of nearby landmarks to help guide your driver. Allow 5-10 minutes for driver to arrive.

Private Transfer from Lukou Airport

Private Airport Transfer Service

Private transfer services can be pre-booked online. Cost: 250-350 CNY (≈$35-49 USD) for a standard sedan to Xinjiekou. This is ideal for business travelers, families with young children, or those wanting guaranteed service. The English-speaking driver meets you at arrivals with a sign, helps with luggage, and provides a stress-free journey. While 2 times the taxi fare, it's worth it for first-timers, large groups, or late arrivals.

When Private Transfer Makes Sense from Lukou

Despite the higher cost, a private transfer is worth it when: 1) You're a family with young children needing car seats. 2) You have multiple large suitcases. 3) You're arriving after a long flight and want zero hassle. 4) You're a group of 3-4 people (splitting makes it reasonable). 5) Your company is paying. 6) You need an English-speaking driver. 7) You're going to a conference or business meeting. The airport is far from the city, so the comfort is appreciated after a flight.

Hotel Pickup Services

Many luxury hotels in Nanjing offer complimentary airport pickup for guests booking certain room categories. Mid-range hotels may offer it for 180-250 CNY. Always ask when booking. This is often a good deal as the driver knows your exact hotel. Some boutique hotels near Confucius Temple offer this service. Confirm in advance and have the hotel's Chinese address ready.

Metro S1 Line & Transfers to Downtown

Metro S1 Line (Airport Line) runs directly from Lukou Airport to Nanjing South Railway Station in 35 minutes. From there, transfer to Line 1 (north-south line) or Line 3 (east-west line) to reach downtown. Total journey to Xinjiekou: 50-60 minutes for 7-9 CNY. The metro is the most reliable option during rush hours and incredibly affordable. Both terminals have direct indoor access to the Lukou International Airport Station.

Metro Experience: Terminal Access

Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have direct access to Lukou International Airport Station. Follow signs for "Metro" or "Subway." From T2: 3-5 minute walk via covered walkway. From T1: 5-7 minute walk. The station is between the terminals. Purchase tickets at machines (English available) or use Nanjing Transportation Card/Alipay/WeChat Pay. Trains run approximately 6:00 AM to 10:30-11:00 PM. Frequency: 6-10 minutes during day, 8-12 minutes at night.

Who Should Take the Metro from Lukou?

The metro is suitable for: 1) Solo travelers with one manageable suitcase/backpack. 2) Those on a tight budget. 3) People staying near a Line 1 or 3 station. 4) Avoiding rush hour traffic. 5) Traveling during off-peak hours. Not suitable for: Families with strollers/young kids, travelers with multiple large bags, elderly/disabled, or those with heavy luggage during rush hour. The metro involves stairs and can be crowded.

Peak Hour Realities on S1 and Transfer Lines

During rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM), S1 Line is usually not too crowded as it starts at the airport. However, Lines 1 and 3 at Nanjing South Station can be very crowded. The transfer at Nanjing South involves walking 5-7 minutes. I've taken S1 during rush hour with a backpack—it's manageable but with a large suitcase would be challenging. The key is the transfer at Nanjing South, which can be busy.

Transfer Options at Nanjing South Railway Station

At Nanjing South Station, you have two main transfer options: 1) Transfer to Line 1 (Green Line): Take toward Maigaoqiao for Xinjiekou (city center), Gulou, Nanjing Railway Station. 2) Transfer to Line 3 (Orange Line): Take toward Linchang for Confucius Temple, Daxinggong, Nanjing Forestry University. Follow signs carefully—Nanjing South is a large station with clear English signage. The transfer walk takes 5-7 minutes.

Airport Shuttle Bus from Lukou Airport

Airport shuttle buses operate 4 main lines from NKG to key locations. Fares: 20 CNY. Travel time: 50-80 minutes depending on traffic and destination. Buses have luggage compartments, making them better for heavy bags than the metro. They run from early morning until late evening, with intervals of 20-30 minutes. While slower than metro during light traffic, they're more comfortable for those with luggage and provide door-to-terminal service.

Airport Bus Lines: Key Routes from Lukou

Bus vs Metro: A Reality Check for Lukou

Bus advantages: Luggage space, seats usually available, avoid subway stairs/crowds, scenic above-ground travel. Bus disadvantages: Subject to Nanjing's notorious traffic, longer travel time, less frequent. Metro advantages: Predictable timing, cheaper, more frequent, unaffected by traffic. Metro disadvantages: Crowded during peaks, stairs, no dedicated luggage space. For travelers with one large suitcase: the bus is often better than struggling on the metro. For backpackers: metro is faster and cheaper.

How to Take the Airport Bus

After baggage claim, follow signs for "Airport Bus" or "Airport Shuttle Bus." Purchase tickets at the booth near the bus stop (cash/Alipay/WeChat Pay). Tell staff your destination; they'll point you to the correct line. Buses are comfortable coaches with air conditioning. Keep your ticket; you may need it to retrieve luggage. Buses make 1-2 stops en route; listen for announcements. Bus stops are at both terminals. Line 1 and Presidential Palace Line are most useful for tourists.

Terminal 1 vs Terminal 2 Guide

Understanding Lukou's Two Terminals

Lukou Airport has two terminals: T1 (mainly domestic flights) and T2 (international and some domestic). T2 is larger and newer. Both terminals are connected by an indoor walkway (10-15 minute walk) and free shuttle bus (5 minutes). The metro station is located between them, accessible from both terminals via covered walkways. Most international flights use T2, while domestic flights can use either. Always check your terminal before arrival.

Free Inter-terminal Shuttle Bus

Free shuttle buses run 24/7 between T1 and T2. Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes. Travel time: 5 minutes. The shuttle stops are clearly marked outside each terminal's arrivals. Buses are usually white with "Inter-terminal Shuttle" signs. No ticket needed—just board. Useful if you arrive at the wrong terminal or need to transfer between terminals for connections.

Walking Between Terminals

Possible but long. T1 and T2 are connected by a 500-meter indoor walkway (10-15 minute walk). The walk is covered and has moving walkways part of the way. With luggage, I'd recommend the shuttle bus. The walkway passes through the metro station area, so you might use it if you're going to the metro anyway.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at T1 on a domestic flight. Your friend told you to take the metro, so you follow signs. After 7 minutes of walking, you reach the metro station. Meanwhile, another traveler arriving at T2 reached the same station in 3 minutes. The difference isn't huge, but with heavy luggage, those extra minutes matter. The key is that both terminals have good metro access, which is a major advantage of Lukou Airport.

Metro & Bus: Detailed Route & All Stops

Understanding the metro and bus routes helps optimize your journey. Below are all stops for S1 Line and key airport bus lines from Lukou Airport to downtown Nanjing.

Metro S1 Line (Airport Line) - Full Route from Lukou Airport to Nanjing South

Metro S1 Line runs from Lukou International Airport to Nanjing South Railway Station. From airport to Nanjing South takes 35 minutes. All stops:

1. Lukou International Airport (T1 & T2 access) - Journey start
2. Lukou Airport Terminal 2 (for T2 access only)
3. Zhenzhu Road
4. Shimenkan
5. Xiangyulubei
6. Xiangyulunan
7. Cuipingshan
8. Kongzhenyuan
9. Jilong Road
10. Nanjing South Railway Station - Transfer to Lines 1, 3, S3

Transfer to Line 1 at Nanjing South Station

From Nanjing South Station, take Line 1 toward Maigaoqiao for downtown:

1. Nanjing South Railway Station (transfer from S1)
2. Cuipingshan (different from S1's Cuipingshan)
3. Huashan Road
4. Baguazhou
5. Mufushan
6. Xiaohang
7. Andemen
8. Zhonghuamen (near Confucius Temple)
9. Sanshanjie
10. Zhangfuyuan
11. Xinjiekou - City center, major shopping area
12. Zhujiang Road
13. Gulou
14. Xuanwumen
15. Nanjing Railway Station - Main railway station
16. ...continues to Maigaoqiao

Transfer to Line 3 at Nanjing South Station

From Nanjing South Station, take Line 3 toward Linchang for other areas:

1. Nanjing South Railway Station (transfer from S1)
2. Mingfaguangchang
3. Hongyun Road
4. Daming Road
5. Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple) - Tourist area, Qinhuai River
6. Changfujie
7. Daxinggong - Presidential Palace area
8. Jiefangmen
9. Nanjing Forestry University
10. Xinjizhou
11. ...continues to Linchang

Airport Bus Line 1: All Stops to Nanjing Railway Station

Airport Bus Line 1 makes limited stops:

1. Lukou Airport (T1, T2)
2. Yuhuatai (optional stop)
3. Zhonghuamen (optional stop)
4. Nanjing Railway Station (main terminal) - Final stop

From Nanjing Railway Station, you can take metro Lines 1 or 3, or taxi to your final destination.

Presidential Palace Line: All Stops to Xinjiekou Area

Presidential Palace Line (to city center):

1. Lukou Airport (T1, T2)
2. Yuhuatai
3. Zhonghuamen
4. Presidential Palace (near Xinjiekou) - Final stop

Lukou Airport to Nanjing City Center Route Map

The map below shows the route from Nanjing Lukou International Airport to the city center. The primary routes are via Metro S1 Line, Airport Expressway, and Hongjiang Avenue.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from Lukou Airport to Nanjing City Center on Google Maps

The distance from Lukou Airport to Xinjiekou is approximately 38 km (24 miles) via Airport Expressway. The Metro S1 + Line 1 route is slightly longer at 42 km (26 miles) but avoids road traffic entirely.

Lukou Airport to City: Ticketing & Costs Comparison

How to Purchase Tickets for Each Option

Taxi: Pay driver cash (CNY) or Alipay/WeChat Pay. Didi: App payment via linked account. Metro: Single-journey tickets from machines (English available) or Nanjing Transportation Card/Alipay/WeChat Pay. Airport Bus: Ticket counter at bus stop or pay on board (cash/Alipay/WeChat). Private Transfer: Pre-paid online. Have small CNY bills for bus/metro tickets; machines may not accept 50 or 100 CNY notes.

Cost Comparison: What Locals Choose

Locals with light luggage: Metro (7-9 CNY). Locals with heavy luggage/group: Taxi/Didi (split cost). Business travelers: Taxi or private car. Students: Airport bus or metro. As a tourist, expect to pay the same fares as locals for metro/bus/taxi. Private transfers and some hotel pickups are marked up for tourists. Don't stress about saving 50 CNY; choose based on your luggage and comfort needs.

Traveler Experience: Getting to Nanjing from Lukou Airport

Arriving at Nanjing Lukou International Airport is generally efficient. The airport is modern, clean, and well-signed in English. After exiting baggage claim, you'll see clear signage for transport options. The key challenge is the airport's distance from the city—it's not close. During peak hours (9 AM-12 PM, 6-9 PM), the taxi queue can be 10-20 minutes at T2. The metro is easily accessible from both terminals via covered walkways.

First-Time Visitor Experience

As a first-timer, Lukou is manageable. Check which terminal you're in (T1 or T2). For taxi: join the queue. For metro: follow signs. For bus: find the bus stop. Have your hotel address in Chinese characters. Most taxi drivers don't speak English. The airport staff are helpful if you're lost. I've seen many confused tourists at Lukou looking for the metro—it's between the terminals, but well-signed.

The Reality of Nanjing Traffic

Nanjing traffic is heavy, especially around Xinjiekou and during rush hours. The 38 km from airport to Xinjiekou can take 40 minutes at midnight or 100 minutes at 8:30 AM. The metro is unaffected by traffic, making it the most time-reliable option. The area around Confucius Temple is often congested, even outside rush hours. The internet might say "taxi takes 40 minutes," but that's only at optimal times. During holidays and weekends, traffic is much worse.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at Lukou T2 on a Friday at 6:00 PM. You decide to take a taxi to your hotel near Confucius Temple. You hit weekend traffic on the approach to the city. The 38 km journey takes 90 minutes, costing 150 CNY. You're stressed and tired. Meanwhile, the traveler who took the metro to Nanjing South, then transferred to Line 3 to Fuzimiao, paid 8 CNY and arrived in 65 minutes, then walked 5 minutes to their hotel. During Nanjing's heavy traffic periods, the metro is almost always faster.

Practical Tips & Advice for Lukou Airport to Nanjing

• Check your terminal: T1 or T2? Both have good metro access, but walking distances differ.
• With large luggage (2+ suitcases): Take taxi, Didi, or airport bus. Metro is difficult with large bags, especially during rush hour.
• First-time visitor tip: Have your hotel address written in Chinese characters. Most taxi drivers don't speak English.
• Late night arrival (after 11:00 PM): Taxi is most reliable. Metro stops around 10:30-11:00 PM. Airport night buses run for last flights.
• Early morning flights (before 7:00 AM): Metro S1 starts around 6:00 AM from airport—may work for 8:00 AM flights. Taxis are available 24/7.
• With kids/strollers: Taxi or private transfer. Metro has stairs and crowded trains; airport buses are better than metro.
• Business travelers: Taxi or private transfer. The time saved and door-to-door service is worth the cost.
• Cost-saving tip: Metro (7-9 CNY) if with light luggage. Airport bus (20 CNY) if with heavy luggage.
• Time-saving tip (non-rush hour): Taxi/Didi (40-70 minutes). Time-saving tip (rush hour): Metro (50-70 minutes, predictable).
• Group travel (3-4 people): One taxi (same price as 1-2 people, split cost). More economical than multiple metro/bus tickets.
• Weekday vs weekend: Weekday rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM) dramatically increase taxi/bus time. Metro is consistently 50-70 minutes.
• Hotel location matters: Hotels near Line 1/3: metro is best. Hotels near Confucius Temple: consider taxi or Airport Bus Line 3.
• Return trip (city to airport): Allow 70-110 minutes before flight. Taxi can be booked via Didi or hotel. Metro is reliable time-wise.
• Mobile apps: Download Didi, Nanjing Metro (offline map), Google Translate (offline Chinese), and Alipay/WeChat Pay.
• Payment: Have CNY cash (150-200 in small bills). Most taxis accept Alipay/WeChat Pay. Metro tickets: cash or transportation card.
• SIM cards: Buy at airport (China Mobile/Unicom counters in arrivals) or arrange eSIM before arrival. Essential for connectivity.
• Peak seasons (Chinese holidays, spring/autumn): Allow extra time. Confucius Temple area is extremely crowded. Traffic is heavier.
• Rainy season (June-July): Taxi demand surges. Metro becomes more crowded. Consider airport bus.
• Accessibility: Metro has elevators at Lukou Airport station. Taxis are most accessible. Airport buses have steps.
• Luggage storage: Available at airport if you want to explore before heading downtown. Then take metro without luggage.
• Tipping: Not expected in China. Taxi: round up fare (e.g., 148 to 150). Porters: 5-10 CNY per bag if they help.
• Scams: Ignore unofficial taxi touts inside terminal. Only use official taxi queue. No "special tourist price" for taxis.
• Nanjing South Station transfer: Allow 5-7 minutes to transfer between S1 and Lines 1/3. Follow signs carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions: Lukou Airport to Nanjing City Center