Our first layover in Beijing, China gave us the opportunity to explore The Great Wall of China and the city of Beijing. On our last layover, heading back home to Hawaii, our flight was delayed causing another 5-hour window of exploration. It was so long, we booked a stay in the Hourly Hotel inside the Beijing International Airport.
The Hourly Hotel is located inside ‘Terminal 3E’. They offer multiple hourly lounges such as a room with bed and shower, couch, and shower, or just hourly showers. They also offer other services such as manicures, pedicures, and spa treatments. It was a complete comfort take over for the pampered traveler.
We did not book anything in advance and being that the airport was busy, we couldn’t help but be fearful of no vacancies. When we inquired the front desk for availability, the only things that were open were hourly showers and a lounge. Since we had 5 hours to kill, the lounge was the best decision.
After reserving the lounge, we were escorted to the room by the attendant and given extra towels since each lounge usually comes with two towels, pillows, and blankets. The room offers a couch, tv, and shower. We all took advantage of the clean environment and hot shower. After exploring Beijing city, it felt amazing getting cleaned up before our flight.
After an endearing trip – through all the adventures, layover, and continuous activity, the last thing we wanted was another delay. However, being able to shower and rest for a few hours before our final departure felt great! If you don’t have enough time to explore the city, booking a hotel room or a lounge is the next best thing to do at the airport. Make sure to book in advance to avoid any vacancy issues.
For more information on Hourly Hotel, visit here.
2026 Update: Beijing now has two international airports. Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) is still the main hub for Air China and Star Alliance carriers, while Beijing Daxing Airport (PKX) handles China Southern, China Eastern, and SkyTeam airlines. Make sure to confirm which airport your airline uses before planning your layover. Some reports indicate the original BCAT Hourly Hotel Lounge in Terminal 3E may have closed, but alternative paid rest lounges with showers are still available in the terminal, including near Gate E10. We recommend confirming availability before your trip.
Related Post: How to Spend a 10-Hour Layover in Beijing – Great Wall, Forbidden City, and More
2026 Updated Information
Two Airports: Beijing now has two international airports. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), referenced in this post, still operates and has hourly lounges in Terminal 3. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) opened in 2019 and handles many international flights. Check which airport your flight uses when planning layovers.
Current Pricing: Hourly lounge rates at Terminal 3 are approximately 150 CNY ($21 USD) for 1 hour with shower, or 360 CNY ($50 USD) for 3 hours with shower and a meal. Standard rooms with en-suite bathroom run about 220 CNY per hour.
China Transit Visa: Many nationalities can enjoy a 144-hour visa-free transit through Beijing, which means you can leave the airport during a layover. Check current visa policies for your nationality before traveling.
2026 Updated Information
Two Airports: Beijing now has two international airports. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), referenced in this post, still operates and has hourly lounges in Terminal 3. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) opened in 2019 and handles many international flights. Check which airport your flight uses when planning layovers.
Current Pricing: Hourly lounge rates at Terminal 3 are approximately 150 CNY ($21 USD) for 1 hour with shower, or 360 CNY ($50 USD) for 3 hours with shower and a meal. Standard rooms with en-suite bathroom run about 220 CNY per hour.
China Transit Visa: Many nationalities can enjoy a 144-hour visa-free transit through Beijing, which means you can leave the airport during a layover. Check current visa policies for your nationality before traveling.
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