Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is about 10 km from Xiamen city centre. Transport costs vary depending on your method, destination, and time of day.
By transport type
Metro Line 1 (BRT also available): CNY 3-5 per person. Metro Line 1 connects the airport to central Xiamen. The BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system also provides fast connections. The journey to the city centre takes only 15-25 minutes. Runs approximately 6:30 AM to 10:30-11 PM.
Airport bus: CNY 15-30 depending on the route. Slow but inexpensive.
Taxi: CNY 25-50 to central areas. Meters are standard. After 11 PM, fares increase by roughly 20 percent. Rush hour traffic pushes fares toward the higher end.
Pre-booked transfer: $15-35 USD for a sedan. Minivans and premium vehicles cost more. The price is fixed regardless of traffic.
By destination
| Destination | Taxi (CNY) | Transfer (CNY) | |-------------|------------|----------------| | Zhongshan Road (old town) | 20-35 | 80-130 | | SM City (shopping) | 15-25 | 50-90 | | Xiamen University | 20-35 | 70-120 | | Gulangyu Ferry Terminal | 20-35 | 80-130 | | Zengcuo'an village | 15-30 | 60-110 | | Jimei district | 15-25 | 50-100 |
Hidden costs to consider
- Late-night surcharge: Taxi meters increase after 11 PM. Budget an extra 20 percent.
- Traffic factor: Rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) fares can be significantly higher as the meter runs on both time and distance.
- Language confusion: If a taxi driver misunderstands your destination, the detour costs you money on the meter. Having your address in Chinese reduces this risk.
- Payment friction: Without WeChat Pay or Alipay, you are limited to cash. ATMs are available in arrivals.
Tips for managing costs
- The metro at CNY 3-5 is by far the cheapest option, but factor in walking and possible transfers to your final destination.
- For groups of 3-4 people, a taxi or transfer becomes more cost-effective per person than individual transit fares.
- Cash in CNY is the most reliable payment for taxis. ATMs in the arrivals hall accept international cards.
- Pre-booked transfers include the price for the vehicle, not per person, making them economical for families and small groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Xiamen Airport from the city center?
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is only about 10 km from the city center, making it one of China's most conveniently located airports. A taxi takes 15-25 minutes outside rush hour.
How much is a taxi from Xiamen Airport to Gulangyu?
A taxi from Xiamen Airport to the Gulangyu ferry terminal costs approximately CNY 20-35 ($3-5 USD). From there, you take the ferry to Gulangyu island. The total journey takes about 30-45 minutes including the ferry wait.
Is there a metro from Xiamen Airport?
Yes, Metro Line 1 connects Xiamen Airport to central areas. The fare is CNY 3-5 and the journey takes 15-25 minutes. It runs from approximately 6:30 AM to 10:30-11 PM.
What is the cheapest way from Xiamen Airport to the city?
Metro Line 1 at CNY 3-5 ($0.50-0.70 USD) is the cheapest option. The BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) is a similar price. Both are fast and efficient given the airport's close proximity to the city.