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SimpleChinaTripBooking guide for foreign visitors

Beijing Capital & Daxing airport to the city

Beijing has two main international airports: Capital (PEK) northeast of the city and Daxing (PKX) to the south. Both have rail links into town. This page is the foreigner-oriented path: tickets, DiDi pins, and fixed-price transfers when you land late with luggage.

Capital Airport (PEK)

Daxing Airport (PKX)

Pre-booked private transfer

If you want a driver holding a sign after immigration:

We may earn a commission via Travelpayouts if you book those links. Compare the fixed price with a DiDi estimate once you have data.

After you drop bags

Hard Beijing tickets (Forbidden City 20:00, National Museum 17:00, Tiananmen noon window) do not wait for jet lag — open release times and set reminders in Beijing time.

Pitfalls: Booking a PEK hotel transfer when you land at PKX. Following a tout to an unmarked car. Trying to sightsee the Forbidden City the same morning you land without tickets already in hand.

Transport outline checked against commonly published PEK/PKX rail guidance and operator pages as of Oct 2026. Always re-check hours on the day of travel. Reviewed 9 Oct 2026.

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FAQ

Which airport will I land at?

Check your ticket: PEK = Capital, PKX = Daxing. They are far apart — do not assume a same-day connection without checking transfer time.

Is the Airport Express foreigner-friendly?

Yes — buy with cash, some cards, or Alipay/WeChat at machines/counters. Keep your ticket/QR for exit. Trains run frequently in daytime; late night may favour DiDi or a pre-booked car.

Should I pre-book a private transfer?

Worth it for late arrivals, families, or lots of luggage. English meet-and-greet options include Welcome Pickups and Kiwitaxi (links below). Otherwise DiDi from the official ride-hailing zone works once your eSIM/data is up.

More in Booking basics

More Beijing guides: Forbidden City tickets sold out — what to do · How to book Forbidden City tickets as a foreigner · Tiananmen Square reservation for foreigners · Mao Memorial Hall reservation for foreigners · Summer Palace tickets for foreigners · Temple of Heaven tickets for foreigners

See all in Booking basics → · All 48 travel guides