Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport’s new Terminal 3 (T3) and Zhongchuan Airport East Railway Station officially opened on March 20, 2025, marking a significant upgrade to air-rail connectivity in northwest China.
1. T3 Terminal Opens; T1 and T2 Closed
All domestic and international flights previously operated from T1 and T2 terminals have been permanently relocated to the T3 Terminal as of March 20, 2025. Passengers must now arrive at T3 for all departures and arrivals. The old terminals are no longer in use.
2. Zhongchuan Airport East Railway Station
Zhongchuan Airport East Railway Station (ZhongchuanJichangDong Station) is located beneath T3 of Zhongchuan Airport. It connects Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (via high-speed rail) to regional destinations like Lanzhou West Railway Station, Lanzhou Railway Station in downtown, or nearby cities like Wuwei and Zhangye.
Zhongchuan Airport Railway Station (Zhongchuanjichang Station, previous train station serving T1/T2 of Lanzhou Airport) is also no longer in use as of March 20, 2025.
3. Lanzhou West Railway Station – Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport by Train
Travelers can reach the airport (using the ZhongchuanJichangDong Railway Station or called Zhongchuan Airport East Station) from downtown Lanzhou via two main stations: Lanzhou West Railway Station (Lanzhouxi Station) and Lanzhou Railway Station (Lanzhou Station). Below are schedules, durations, and fares:
| Route | Daily Trains | Travel Time | Fare (CNY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lanzhou West → Zhongchuan Airport East | 20 | 40–45 mins | ¥20 |
| Zhongchuan Airport East → Lanzhou West | 16 | 40–45 mins | ¥20 |
| Lanzhou Station → Zhongchuan Airport East | 9 | 50–60 mins | ¥20 |
| Zhongchuan Airport East → Lanzhou Station | 9 | 50–60 mins | ¥20 |
| Search on https://www.trip.com/trains/china/ | |||
Notes:
- Enter ” zhongchuanjichangdong ” as Zhongchuan Airport East Station while you search the train schedule.
- Jichang = Airport, Dong = East
Check Live Train Schedule
| Zhangye to Lanzhou Train | Jiayuguan to Lanzhou Train | Dunhuang to Lanzhou Train |
| Lanzhou to Chengdu Train | Lanzhou to Xi’an Train | Lanzhou to Tianshui Train |
4. Lanzhou West vs. Lanzhou Railway Station: Key Differences
Understanding these two railway stations in Lanzhou is critical for smooth travel:
| Feature | Lanzhou West Railway Station | Lanzhou Railway Station |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Qilihe District (west of downtown) | Chengguan District (city center) |
| Primary Service | High-speed rail (G/D trains) | Conventional trains (K/T/Z-series) |
| Metro Access | Metro Line 1 | Metro Line 2 |
| Amenities | Modern facilities, limited dining options | Bustling area with hotels, restaurants |
| Proximity to Airport | Closer (40–45 mins by train) | Farther (50–60 mins by train) |
Key Tips:
- Lanzhou West is better for high-speed rail efficiency, while Lanzhou Station offers convenience for downtown stays.
- Confirm your ticket’s departure station carefully—mistaking the two could cause delays.
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