2020 Flight Pass Guide: How I Explored China’s Majestic Landscapes for 3,699 RMB
Meta Description: Discover how a single China Southern "Happy Fly" pass unlocked 18 cities across China in 2020. From Kunming’s seagulls to Chongqing’s cyberpunk nights, read this first-hand flight pass review and travel itinerary.
Introduction: When a Pandemic Changed Travel, a Flight Pass Changed Everything
2020 was a surreal year for everyone. The pandemic descended like an unexpected storm, sweeping across the entire world. Cities came to a halt, life hit the pause button, and those trips we once took for granted suddenly became distant luxuries. For those of us who live for distant horizons, this sense of loss cut especially deep.
I felt it too. All my planned overseas trips fell through, and even domestic travel was put on hold. It wasn't until the situation gradually stabilized that I cautiously began to venture out again. But precisely because it was so hard-won, every single journey became incredibly precious.
I stopped following the crowd blindly and started listening to my heart — going to places I truly wanted to see, discovering overlooked landscapes, seeking deeper experiences, and fulfilling long-postponed dreams.
So I spent 18,888 RMB and 130 days flying thousands of miles across China's magnificent mountains and rivers. And it all started with a single flight pass I bought at the end of July.
The Best Flight Pass of 2020: China Southern "Happy Fly" Review
Let me be clear: this isn't an ad, just a personal experience.
The pandemic changed how we travel and forced airlines to reinvent themselves. In the summer of 2020, major Chinese carriers rolled out flight pass products. The most sensational was China Eastern Airlines' "Weekend Fly-As-You-Please" pass. Then China Southern Airlines' "Happy Fly" joined the game with a bang.
I initially grabbed China Eastern's weekend pass, but before I could even use it, China Southern's offer appeared. After carefully comparing the terms, I decisively canceled the first and embraced the second.
As it turned out, this decision made the second half of 2020 absolutely spectacular for me.
Why China Southern's "Happy Fly" Was the Best Value Flight Pass
- Price: 3,699 RMB for unlimited domestic flights
- Timing: No weekend restrictions — perfect for a freelancer like me
- Holiday coverage: National Day and New Year's were both valid
Usage rules (simplified): - Maximum 2 round trips between the same departure and arrival airports - Up to 3 unused flight segments at any given time - Book at least 5 days in advance; taxes paid separately - Cancel at least 4 days in advance; taxes refundable - Pass automatically invalidated after 3 no-shows
Who it's for: - People with plenty of travel time between August 26, 2020 and January 6, 2021 - Residents of cities with dense China Southern routes: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Beijing (Daxing), Wuhan, Changsha, Zhengzhou, Xi'an, Urumqi, Dalian, Harbin, Changchun, Shenyang, Guiyang, Chongqing
Over half a year, I redeemed more than 10 flights and visited 18 cities. I may not be a "flight master," but for me it was more than worth it — I fulfilled many long-cherished dreams.
Why I Dropped China Eastern's Weekend Pass
China Eastern's pass cost 3,322 RMB, offered unlimited route redemptions, but was limited to Saturdays and Sundays. It was undoubtedly the most eye-catching product of 2020 and arguably a milestone for China's aviation industry.
But I had two key reasons for passing: 1. China Southern has far more routes out of Guangzhou and Shenzhen 2. China Southern allowed weekday flights, offering greater flexibility
Of course, if you live in or around Shanghai, or have frequent weekend commuting needs (visiting family, business trips, etc.), China Eastern's pass is still a great deal. Later, they launched a "Morning-Evening Fly-As-You-Please" pass covering weekdays too — their product strategy was fast and aggressive.
Is Hainan Airlines' Flight Pass Worth It?
Hainan Airlines' "Gather in the Free Trade Port" package suits those who frequently travel to and from Hainan. Their "Enjoy China" package was even more user-friendly in design than China Southern's. Unfortunately, it launched too late and missed the window, having been beaten by China Eastern and China Southern. If you have regular Hainan needs, it's worth a look.
[Link: Compare 2023 flight pass options for domestic travel in China]
Kunming Travel Guide: Autumn on Dianchi Lake, Winter with Seagulls
Kunming was the city I visited most often in 2020, hands down.
In late October, I met up with my mom and sister in Kunming to begin our Kunming-Dali-Lijiang trip. Though it rained for days, none of us minded — we were just happy to be together.
Across from Haigeng Park, the Western Hills were shrouded in clouds and mist, looking more ethereal than on a clear day. We took the Dianchi Lake cable car up to the hills, enjoying a panoramic view of the lake below.
The biggest surprise: by late October, we could already see red-beaked gulls at Haigeng Park and Haigeng Dam! These little creatures from Siberia were flying freely over Dianchi Lake, creating a stunning spectacle. A local friend warned: don't grab them for photos.
[Link: Best time to visit Kunming for seagull watching]
Chongqing Travel Guide: Gloomy Days, Cyberpunk Nights
Chongqing was my city of "great sorrow and great joy" in 2020.
Before heading to Tibet, I spent a few days in Chongqing. The winter fog capital lived up to its reputation — days of relentless drizzle left me feeling miserable. While others experience Chongqing as "passing through your world," I felt like I was "passing through a world of rain and fog."
But come nighttime, Chongqing transformed into another universe.
Top Chongqing Night Photography Spots
Eling Er Chang (Eling No.2 Factory): A former printing factory turned into a nostalgic creative park. Unfortunately, the Love Sky Terrace was closed due to rain. I went back later, determined, and finally made it. Though I didn't catch the stunning sunset over the Jialing River, I bought a postcard and sent it to a friend far away.
Forty-Seventh Floor Food Stall: A 90s retro diner bursting with street-food energy. Signs read "Awesome Lobster House" and "Holy Shrimp Fried Rice" — you can't help but laugh. The point here isn't the food; it's the atmosphere.
Cyberpunk Nights: China's three most cyberpunk cities: Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Chongqing. After dark, I roamed with my camera, hunting down every vantage point.
- Nanbin Road: A frontal view of Chaotianmen Square, where the Raffles City building looks like something out of The Matrix
- Bell Tower Square: The bridge arches offered an anime-style photo spot, but it was under renovation
- Grand Theater Metro Station: The classic spot for shooting Hongyadong, its night scene like a floating castle
- Qiansimen Bridge: Futuristic in design, resembling the Eye of Sauron from The Lord of the Rings or a giant harp
Finally, I went to the United International Building. The top floor had been turned into a paid observation deck — 68 RMB per ticket. I took the elevator to the 67th floor, then climbed to the rooftop helipad for a 360-degree view of Chongqing. By day, it was shrouded in mist; by night, it was so beautiful it made you gasp.
[Link: Chongqing cyberpunk photography guide for beginners]
Tibet Winter Travel: A Solo Journey to Lhasa and Nyingchi
My farthest domestic trip in 2020 was to Tibet in December.
Many worry about altitude sickness when visiting Tibet in winter, and I had my concerns too. But remembering my previous experiences there, I figured I'd be fine and impulsively decided to go. Not a single friend could join me, so I went solo.
From ticket redemption to departure, I spent over two months preparing — and it was a bumpy ride.
Initially, I locked in Guangzhou-Lhasa and Lhasa-Chongqing flights during National Day. But plans changed, and I couldn't travel until late November, so I had to painfully cancel.
But I didn't give up. When I re-planned, I found Guangzhou departures were sold out. So I took a "roundabout" route via Chongqing and successfully swapped for Chongqing-Lhasa round trips.
Even better, I discovered Nyingchi as a destination. Winter offers the highest chance of seeing Mount Namcha Barwa, so I added Nyingchi to the itinerary.
Final itinerary: Chongqing → Lhasa → Nyingchi → Guangzhou
[Link: Winter Tibet travel tips – altitude sickness and itinerary planning]
FAQ: Flight Passes and Domestic Travel in China
1. Are flight passes worth it in 2023?
Flight passes are still available from major Chinese airlines, but terms have changed. Compare route density from your home city, blackout dates, and cancellation policies before purchasing. For frequent flyers or remote workers, they can still offer significant savings.
2. Which Chinese airline has the best flight pass?
It depends on your base city. China Southern dominates southern hubs like Guangzhou and Shenzhen. China Eastern is stronger in Shanghai and eastern China. Hainan Airlines covers Hainan and select routes. Check route maps before buying.
3. Can I use a flight pass for Tibet travel?
Yes, but availability is limited. Lhasa and Nyingchi are served by China Southern, China Eastern, and Tibet Airlines. Book well in advance, especially in peak seasons. Winter offers lower demand and better redemption chances.
4. What's the best time to visit Kunming for seagulls?
Red-beaked gulls from Siberia arrive in late October and stay through March. November to February offers the highest concentration at Dianchi Lake and Haigeng Park. Bring bread or bird feed (check local regulations).
5. How do I photograph Chongqing's cyberpunk skyline?
Key spots include Nanbin Road for Chaotianmen, Grand Theater Metro Station for Hongyadong, and Qiansimen Bridge for futuristic angles. Use a tripod for long exposures. Visit after sunset but before 10 PM when lights are brightest.
Final Thoughts: Why a Flight Pass Changed My 2020
Looking back, that 3,699 RMB investment in China Southern's "Happy Fly" pass was the best travel decision I made in 2020. It turned a year of lockdowns and cancellations into 130 days of exploration, 18 cities, and memories that will last a lifetime.
From watching Siberian seagulls dance over Dianchi Lake to standing on a rooftop helipad in Chongqing at midnight, from walking the Potala Palace grounds in winter solitude to catching a glimpse of Namcha Barwa through the clouds — every moment was worth the planning, the cancellations, and the last-minute changes.
If you're considering a flight pass for your next adventure, do your homework. Check your home airport's route network, understand the terms, and be flexible. But most importantly: take the leap. You never know where one ticket might take you.
Ready to plan your own flight pass adventure? Start by checking the latest offers from China Southern, China Eastern, and Hainan Airlines. Compare routes from your nearest hub, and bookmark this guide for itinerary inspiration. Your next great journey is just a booking away.
[Link: How to choose the best flight pass for your travel style]
Note: Prices and terms referenced are from 2020. Always verify current offers and policies before purchasing.
