For those who take to the skies regularly, most airports begin to take on a familiar look and feel. If you travel often enough, business class lounges all begin to look the same, too. Despite the obvious benefits that some may have to offer. With that being said, some airports do differ from others in the way they do things, especially in China. Air travel can, at times, be a complicated process in China. Unfortunately, delays and small inconveniences often arise. To limit these, we’ve found and listed the 3 best international airports in China.
1. Beijing Capital International Airport
Where better to begin than with China’s biggest airport? With tens of millions of passengers passing through its terminals each year, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) remains one of the largest and busiest airports in China and the world. Most long-haul international flights continue to operate through the impressive Terminal 3, which was built ahead of the 2008 Summer Olympics. The terminal offers a wide range of dining options catering to both local and Western tastes.
If you’re departing from Beijing Capital, it’s best to plan for extra travel time. Beijing is famed for its heavy traffic, and getting to the airport can take longer than expected, particularly during peak hours. The route is made up of multiple highways that can become congested without much warning.
To avoid crowded roads, many travelers opt for the Airport Express train, which operates from Dongzhimen and Sanyuanqiao subway stations throughout most of the day (with the last departures typically around 10:30 PM). For business travelers, however, the express train is not without its own hassles. If you’re carrying large luggage, squeezing onto busy trains and navigating queues can be challenging.
Although the express train is often the faster option, the most comfortable and hassle-free way to reach the airport remains a private car service. This option provides ample space for luggage, avoids long taxi queues, and eliminates the need for transfers. A professional driver will collect you directly from your location and take you door-to-door.
Once inside the airport, travelers should be prepared for lengthy security and immigration lines, especially during peak travel periods such as Chinese New Year or national holidays. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to catch up on work if they arrive early. However, access to many international websites and apps remains restricted due to China’s internet regulations. Travelers who rely on services such as Gmail, WhatsApp, or social media should ensure they have a VPN installed before arriving in China.
2. Shanghai Pudong International Airport
The younger of Shanghai’s two international airports, Pudong International Airport (PVG) opened in 1999 and is located approximately 30 km outside Shanghai’s city center. Getting to and from Pudong is relatively straightforward compared to many other major airports in China, particularly thanks to the Maglev train.
The Maglev is an experience in itself. Known as the world’s first commercially operated high-speed magnetic levitation train, it remains the fastest commercial train service in operation, reaching speeds of up to 431 km/h. That said, Shanghai is one of the most populated cities in the world, and even fast transport can become crowded. During busy hours, queues for tickets and seats are common unless you travel outside peak times.
The Maglev is not the only transport option. Many travelers also use the Shanghai Metro or taxis to reach the airport. However, crowded subway lines and language barriers with taxi drivers can sometimes make these options less convenient for foreign visitors.
Pudong International Airport serves as a major hub for China Eastern Airlines, Air China, and several international carriers, as well as global cargo operators such as DHL. The airport has continued to expand in recent years, with additional terminal and satellite facilities increasing overall passenger capacity and improving traffic flow.
Inside the airport, travelers will find a wide range of dining options familiar to Western passengers, as well as premium lounges such as the China Eastern Plaza Premium Lounge. This lounge is consistently ranked among the best in China, offering a buffet of Chinese and Western dishes, live cooking stations, and made-to-order noodle specialties inspired by Shanghai and Hong Kong cuisine.
Business travelers can make use of complimentary Wi-Fi, computer workstations, charging points, flight information displays, and telephones. Additional amenities include shower rooms, relaxation areas, nursing rooms, disabled access, reading materials, and designated smoking rooms—making Pudong a comfortable and efficient airport for long international journeys.
3. Hong Kong International Airport
If you’re lucky enough to arrive at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) during daylight hours, the approach offers spectacular views. Located on Lantau Island, flights descend over a mix of sea, mountains, and city skyline, making for one of the most scenic airport approaches in Asia.
Hong Kong International Airport is considered one of the region’s most important global transport hubs, with direct connections to destinations across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond. The airport is particularly popular with travelers thanks to its extensive shopping and dining options. International brands such as Zara, MAC, and Jimmy Choo sit alongside specialty stores and designer boutiques, while food courts throughout the terminals offer both Asian and Western options, including well-known cafés and casual dining chains.
For business and premium travelers, the Cathay Pacific lounges, particularly The Pier and The Bridge, are among the airport’s highlights. These lounges consistently rank among the world’s best, offering private relaxation spaces, high-quality dining, shower suites, and business facilities. Designed with comfort and productivity in mind, they provide restaurant-quality meals, freshly prepared bakery items, and well-stocked bars overlooking the tarmac.
Other facilities include private shower suites with complimentary amenities, IT zones with high-speed internet access, printers, and quiet workspaces—making transit through Hong Kong both comfortable and efficient.
Getting to the airport is generally straightforward, though taxis can occasionally be inconvenient due to traffic or language barriers. Many experienced travelers prefer using a private car service or the Airport Express train. A key advantage of the Airport Express is in-town check-in, available at Hong Kong and Kowloon stations for select airlines. This allows passengers to check in luggage and receive boarding passes before arriving at the airport, making the final leg of the journey smoother and faster.
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