Why Take the Train?
Traveling by high-speed rail from Dunhuang to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport’s new T3 Terminal involves a rail transfer at Lanzhou West Station (Dunhuang – Lanzhou West – Zhongchuanjichangdong).
Step-by-Step Route
Stage 1: Dunhuang Station → Lanzhou West Station
- Departure Station: Dunhuang Railway Station (敦煌站)
- Frequency: 2 trains daily:
- Duration: 7 hours 20 minutes
- Fares: from ¥324 (2nd class)
Stage 2: Lanzhou West Station → Zhongchuan Airport East Station
- Arrival Station: Lanzhou West Station (Lanzhouxi)
- Frequency: 20 trains daily (6:30 AM – 10:30 PM)
- Duration: 40–45 minutes
- Flat Fare: ¥20 (2nd class)
Route Summary Table & Check Live Schedule
| Dunhuang to Lanzhou Train | Dunhuang to Jiayuguan Train | Dunhuang to Zhangye Train |
| Dunhuang to Xi’an Train | Dunhuang to Jiuquan Train | Dunhuang to Yumen Train |
| Route | Daily Trains | Duration | Price (CNY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dunhuang → Lanzhou West | 2 | 7h20m | from 324 |
| Lanzhou West → Zhongchuan Airport East | 20 | 40–45m | from 20 |
| Search on https://www.trip.com/trains/china/ | |||
⚠️ Critical Notes
- The morning train from Dunhuang is strongly recommended—it allows safer connections to evening flights.
- Dunhuang Station is 13 km from downtown; arrive 1 hour early for ticket pickup.
Key Travel Tips
1. Transfer at Lanzhou West Station
- Minimum Transfer Time: 40 minutes (platforms for airport trains are in a separate area).
- Look for the“Train” signs or ask staff for “中川机场东站” (Zhōngchuān Jīchǎng Dōng Station).
3. At Zhongchuan Airport East Station
Zhongchuan Airport East Station is referred as Zhongchuanjichangdong Station.
- Follow purple “Flight Check-In” signs to T3 Terminal (5-minute walk).
- Last check-in for flights is 30 minutes before departure.
Alternative Options
| Method | Duration | Cost (CNY) | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight (DNH→LHW) | 2h10m | 800–1,500 | High (only 1–2 flights/week, frequent cancellations) |
| Overnight Bus | 12–14h | 200 |
Trusted Online Ticket Agents:
Option 1: China Highlights is a reliable online agency for China train ticketing. They get positive reviews on TripAdvisor & Trustpilot. Sharon and her team help you buy tickets & plan rail routes even deliver tickets to your hotels with a service fee.
Option 2: Trip.com is an internatioal brand owned by Ctrip Group, China's largest online travel booking platform. Trip.com offers booking service for flight, train, hotel, activities, etc
