Beijing, China
Smoking policy at Beijing, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Warnings & Caveats
Do Not attempt illicit smoking. Chinese airport police are omnipresent and extremely strict. The penalties could include hard labor time and are rigidly enforced. At security check they confiscate all lighters they finds. Hiding lighters into hand luggage seems to work fine, they found and confiscated only those from pockets.
Smoking is strictly prohibited after security at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK); there are no smoking rooms or lounges at the airside of the international terminal.
Before Security
The most suitable area is in front of the terminal, outside of security. There are reportedly designated smoking areas outside the arrivals hall, including one by Entrance 12.
If there are no signs, no ashtrays, and no designated outdoor area, do not smoke at random spots in the terminal.
After Security
There are no facilities to smoke in the terminals beyond the security checkpoints; therefore, international transfer passengers wishing to smoke would need to enter China, go through immigration control, exit from the terminal area, and undergo security again.
This is time-consuming and not a good option for passengers with short layovers.
Domestic Side
Some travelers report outdoor smoking areas on the domestic side outside of Gates 1, 5, and 7. Ashtrays and seating may or may not be available.
Lighters
Security is very strict at PEK. Lighters can and often will be confiscated during security screening, so avoid taking an expensive or sentimental lighter through.
Vaping
You should not assume that vaping is permissible. Though some passengers have reported seeing people vape inside the terminal, this rule is enforced differently on a case by case basis.
Traveler tips
PEK is not a smoker-friendly airport. If you must smoke, do so before security and allow sufficient time to pass through. Once through security, you are unlikely to find anywhere to smoke.
