Duty Free opening hours Beijing airport

Question

I'll be arriving at 23:10 at Beijing terminal 3 on a flight and transiting there for 3 hours.

I would like to buy cigarettes.

Can anyone confirm if the duty free shop in airside at Terminal 3 is open at that time?

Answer

At Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) Terminal 3, the duty free shops located in the airside (after security) are generally open according to flight schedules, and many operate 24 hours or close to it, especially in the international departure areas. Since your arrival is at 23:10, you will be transiting late at night, so it is important to note the following:

Most major duty free stores in Terminal 3, including those selling cigarettes, remain open late into the night, but not all stores operate 24/7. The peak hours are typically daytime to evening, and late-night staffing may be reduced.
If you are connecting to an international flight, the airside duty free area is accessible for transit passengers, so you can shop after completing transit security checks.
The exact opening hours can vary depending on the specific store and airline operations on that day. Some smaller or specialty shops may close around midnight, while larger stores may remain open until the early hours to accommodate late-night arrivals and departures.

Tips to ensure you can buy cigarettes during your transit:

After landing, follow the signs for international transfer or airside duty free.
If possible, check with your airline or the official Beijing Airport website for real-time information about duty free opening hours for Terminal 3.
Allow at least 30–45 minutes to clear transit procedures and reach the duty free shop before any potential closing time.
Consider alternative options such as buying at your departure airport or pre-ordering online duty free if the timing seems tight.

In summary, while many airside duty free shops in Terminal 3 are open late, arriving at 23:10 means you should act promptly to ensure you can purchase cigarettes before your onward flight. Confirming with the airport or airline closer to your travel date is the safest way to avoid disappointment.