Guangzhou and Guilin are both popular tourist destinations in China, each offering its own unique attractions. Guangzhou, a modern metropolis, is known for its rich history and vibrant commercial environment. Popular areas like Beijing Road and Shangxiajiu are famous for shopping and food, attracting numerous visitors. Guilin, on the other hand, is renowned for its natural landscapes. The breathtaking scenery of the Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill, and Yangshuo draws a large number of domestic and international tourists every year.
Many travelers to China prefer to explore multiple cities rather than just one, to experience the diverse cultures and landscapes the country has to offer. This blog is specifically aimed at those planning to visit both Guangzhou and Guilin. Traveling from Guangzhou to Guilin is very convenient. You can choose to travel by plane, high-speed train, long-distance bus, or drive yourself. Below is a simple comparison of these options:
| Transportation Method | Duration | Cost | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plane | About 1.5 hours | Prices vary greatly; expensive during holidays | 1. Fast and time-saving. 2. Ideal for short trips or travelers with tight schedules. | Relatively high ticket prices, especially during peak tourist seasons. |
| High-speed Train | About 2.5 to 3.5 hours | From $20 (second-class, first-class, and business-class seats have different prices) | 1. Comfortable and convenient with moderate travel time. 2. High-speed train stations are usually located in city centers, making transfers easier. 3. Numerous departures ensure you don’t have to worry about finding a ride. | Slightly slower compared to flights (but still faster than buses and driving). |
| Long-distance Bus | About 6 to 9 hours | From $28 (depending on the distance between the two bus stations) | Economical for budget-conscious travelers. | 1. Long travel time and relatively lower comfort. 2. Affected by weather and traffic conditions. |
| Self-driving | About 6-7 hours | Depends on car rental and fuel costs | 1. Offers the greatest freedom and flexibility. 2. Suitable for family or group travel with the option to stop and enjoy the scenery at any time. | 1. Long driving hours with increased risk of driver fatigue. 2. Fuel and highway tolls are additional costs. |
Based on my travel experience, high-speed trains are the preferred choice for most travelers. They offer a short travel time and a comfortable journey, allowing you to relax during the trip.
However, to accommodate different preferences, let’s take a closer look at how to use each of these travel options from Guangzhou to Guilin.
Guangzhou to Guilin: Flying
Flights from Guangzhou to Guilin are frequent, with multiple flights available throughout the day, covering morning, afternoon, and evening slots. These flights are operated by various airlines, including but not limited to China Southern Airlines and China Eastern Airlines. Tourists can book flights according to their travel plans with great flexibility.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (广州白云国际机场)
- Location: Located in Huadu District, approximately 28 kilometers northwest of downtown Guangzhou.
- Facilities: The airport offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and rest areas, along with convenient transportation services.
Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (桂林两江国际机场)
- Location: Situated in Lingui District, about 30 kilometers from downtown Guilin.
- Facilities: The airport is equipped with comprehensive dining and shopping options and provides direct bus services to Guilin city center and Yangshuo.
Flight Booking and Costs
It is advisable to book tickets in advance through the airline’s official website or reputable third-party travel platforms (like Expedia) to ensure the best travel experience. Ticket prices may vary depending on booking time, season, and airline, with higher costs during holidays and peak travel seasons.
Travel Planning and Preparation
- Luggage Preparation: Check the baggage policies of your chosen airline to avoid additional fees.
- Travel Time: Allow at least 2 hours for airport procedures to ensure a smooth boarding experience.
- Flight Monitoring: Keep an eye on your flight status before departure to ensure a smooth journey.
- Transportation Planning: Upon arrival in Guilin, you can take an airport bus, taxi, or rideshare service to reach the city or tourist attractions.
Tips
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip.
- Weather Preparedness: Guilin experiences frequent rain; carry rain gear and pack clothing suitable for the season.
- Flight Timing: Choose flights that align with the opening hours of Guilin’s attractions to make the most of your travel time.
In summary, flying is the fastest way to travel between Guangzhou and Guilin, though ticket prices can fluctuate significantly due to holidays and seasonal factors. It’s a good idea to compare the costs of different transportation options and choose the one that best suits your needs.
However, based on my latest search (2024), there are currently no direct flights from Guangzhou to Guilin. If you choose to travel by plane, you will need to transfer in Chengdu (成都) or Haikou (海口). If your travel plans already include a visit to Chengdu or Haikou, this option could work for you; otherwise, I still recommend taking the high-speed train.
Taking the Train or High-Speed Rail
In China, high-speed rail (HSR) is the most common mode of transportation, and if you’re visiting from abroad, I highly recommend experiencing the speed and efficiency of China’s high-speed trains. Below is a detailed introduction to the train stations in Guangzhou and Guilin.
Guangzhou South Railway Station
Guangzhou South Station is one of the largest high-speed railway stations in southern China, located in Panyu District of Guangzhou. It serves as a major hub connecting South China with other parts of the country.
Location and Transportation Connections:
- Location: Situated in Shibi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.
- Transportation Connections: Conveniently connected to Guangzhou Metro Lines 2, 7, and 22, as well as several bus routes, providing easy access to the city center.
Service Routes:
- High-Speed Railways: Includes the Beijing-Guangzhou High-Speed Railway, Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High-Speed Railway, Guiyang-Guangzhou High-Speed Railway, and Nanning-Guangzhou Railway, directly connecting to Guilin North Station and Guilin West Station.
Features and Recommendations:
- Fast Travel: The high-speed train from Guangzhou South Station to Guilin North Station takes only about 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Frequent Departures: Numerous train options are available throughout the day.
- Ideal for: Travelers seeking speed and comfort.
Guangzhou Railway Station
Guangzhou Railway Station is the traditional train station located in Yuexiu District, close to the city center. It mainly handles regular-speed train services and is a key railway node connecting South China with the northern regions.
Currently, there are no direct trains from Guangzhou Railway Station to Guilin (as of 2024).
Location and Transportation Connections:
- Location: 159 Huanshi West Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, near the city center.
- Transportation Connections: Connected to Guangzhou Metro Lines 2 and 5, and several bus routes.
Service Routes:
- Conventional Railways: Includes the Beijing-Guangzhou Railway and Guangzhou-Shenzhen Railway.
- Intercity: Guangzhou-Foshan-Zhaoqing Intercity Rail, requiring a transfer to Guilin.
Features and Recommendations:
- Affordable: Conventional trains offer relatively lower ticket prices but take longer.
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers with flexible schedules.
Guilin North Railway Station
Guilin North Station is an important stop on the Guiyang-Guangzhou High-Speed Railway, located in Lingchuan County, Guilin. The station is modern, equipped with advanced facilities such as facial recognition gates and automatic ticket machines, and can handle a large number of passengers.
Location and Transportation Connections:
- Location: No. 6, Zhanqian Road, Diecai District, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, close to the city center.
- Transportation Connections: Multiple bus routes provide direct access to the city center and major attractions, with convenient taxi services.
Features and Recommendations:
- Easy Access to the City: Quick and convenient travel to Guilin’s city center.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to the city, making it easy to visit Reed Flute Cave.
Guilin West Railway Station
Guilin West Station is another major stop on the Guiyang-Guangzhou High-Speed Railway, located in Xiufeng District, Guilin. The station covers over 6,300 square meters and can accommodate up to 1,200 passengers in its waiting area. It also offers bus routes that make it easy to reach the city center or other tourist spots.
Location and Transportation Connections:
- Location: Xizhan East Road, Dingjiang Town, Lingchuan County, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, farther from the city center.
- Transportation Connections: Bus routes are relatively limited, with taxis being the primary mode of transportation.
Features and Recommendations:
- Peaceful Environment: Located away from the bustling city, ideal for travelers seeking a quieter experience.
- Ideal for: Those with flexible schedules planning to explore the outskirts of Guilin.
Guilin Railway Station
Guilin Railway Station is the traditional train station in Guilin, located in Xiangshan District. It mainly handles conventional train services. The station has a long history and is one of the oldest in the city, offering a unique travel experience with a design that reflects local ethnic characteristics.
Location and Transportation Connections:
- Location: No. 39, Zhongshan South Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
- Transportation Connections: Well-developed bus and taxi services.
Service Routes:
- Primary Services: Conventional trains connecting to cities like Guangzhou, though departures are less frequent.
Features and Recommendations:
- Central Location: Direct access to the heart of Guilin, making it easy to explore and travel around the city.
- Surrounding Amenities: Rich in dining, accommodation, and shopping options nearby.
Comprehensive Recommendations for Station Selection
- Guangzhou South Station to Guilin North Station: This high-speed train route offers the best combination of speed and comfort, making it ideal for most travelers.
- Guilin West Station: Suitable for travelers planning to explore the outskirts or rural areas around Guilin.
- Guilin North Station and Guilin Railway Station: These stations are close to the city center, making them particularly convenient for travelers who want quick access to the city and its attractions. When choosing a station, consider your personal schedule, budget, and travel preferences to ensure a pleasant journey.
Train Schedules and Timetables
The high-speed trains from Guangzhou South Station to the Guilin area (either North Station or West Station) are frequent, with approximately 65 trains running daily, covering early morning to late evening. Most of these are CRH (China Railway High-speed) trains, with some being faster G-series trains. Departure and arrival times may vary depending on the season and railway scheduling, so it is recommended to check the latest timetables online before your trip.
Boarding Process and Ticket Purchase Tips
- Electronic Tickets: You can book your tickets online and retrieve them from self-service machines, or purchase them via mobile apps, which is more convenient and efficient.
- Real-Name Registration: Purchasing and boarding require valid identification.
Travel Experience and Considerations
- Seat Types: Options include second class, first class, and business class seats, allowing travelers to choose based on their budget and comfort needs.
- Luggage: Be sure to check the railway’s regulations on luggage size and weight to avoid any issues.
- Onboard Facilities: The high-speed trains are equipped with free Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and other amenities to enhance your travel experience.
Connection Guide and Destination Recommendations
- Guilin City Attractions: After arriving at Guilin North Station, you can quickly reach popular attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill and the Li River by bus or taxi.
- Yangshuo Town: It is recommended to explore the picturesque countryside along the Li River, sample local delicacies on West Street in Yangshuo, and immerse yourself in the unique cultural atmosphere.
Tips
- Plan Ahead: Especially during holidays and festivals, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to avoid the risk of tickets selling out.
- Waiting Room Comfort: Guangzhou South Station has multiple waiting areas that offer a comfortable environment.
- Food Preparation: While meals are available onboard, the variety and price may not be as favorable as outside options, so consider bringing some snacks and save your appetite for the delicious local food in the city.
With its punctuality and speed, the high-speed train has become one of the most popular ways to travel between Guangzhou and Guilin. With proper planning, your journey will be smooth and enjoyable.
Taking a Bus From Guangzhou to Guilin
There are relatively few bus departures from Guangzhou to Guilin, with about a dozen trips per day. This option is suitable for those who couldn’t secure high-speed train tickets, or for travelers who prefer a different scenic route and aren’t in a rush.
Guangdong Provincial Bus Terminal
Guangdong Provincial Bus Terminal is located on Huanshi West Road in Guangzhou and is a national first-class highway passenger station. This terminal operates over 2,000 departures daily, with routes covering major cities in Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Guizhou, and Hunan provinces.
Location and Transportation:
- Address: No. 147-149, Huanshi West Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
- Metro: Direct access via Metro Line 2 to “Guangzhou Railway Station”
- Bus: Multiple bus routes covering the city
Services and Features:
- Long-Distance Buses: Offers long-distance bus services to many cities across China.
- Guilin Buses: Multiple daily departures to Guilin, including both day and night options.
Suitable for:
- Departing from City Center: Ideal for travelers starting from downtown Guangzhou.
- Flexible Schedules: Suitable for those needing flexible departure times.
Guangzhou South Bus Terminal
Located in Nansha District, Guangzhou South Bus Terminal offers various routes, including customized direct routes to places like Meizhou Pingyuan.
Location and Transportation:
- Address: Zhongcun South Station Road, Panyu District, near Guangzhou South Railway Station
- Metro: Accessible via Metro Lines 2, 7, and 22
- Bus: Multiple bus routes available
Services and Features:
- Railway Connection: Seamless connection with Guangzhou South Railway Station.
- Guilin Buses: Provides bus services to Guilin.
Suitable for:
- Railway Transfers: Ideal for travelers transferring from high-speed trains.
- Direct Access: Suitable for those who prefer a quick and direct route to Guilin.
Guangzhou East Bus Terminal
Guangzhou East Bus Terminal is located in Tianhe District, near Guangzhou East Railway Station, and offers convenient transportation links. The terminal provides bus services to destinations such as Shenzhen, Dongguan, and Zhongshan.
Location and Transportation:
- Address: No. 43, Yudong West Road, Tianhe District, in the bustling Tianhe business district.
- Metro: Accessible via Metro Lines 1 and 3
- Bus: Multiple bus routes available
Services and Features:
- Business Area: Located in the Tianhe business district, making it convenient for business travelers.
- Guilin Buses: Offers bus services to Guilin.
Suitable for:
- Business Travelers: Ideal for those departing from the Tianhe business district.
Guilin South Bus Terminal
Guilin Bus Terminal is a first-class terminal with an average daily passenger volume of about 10,000. The main terminal building covers an area of over 7,000 square meters.
Location and Transportation:
- Address: South of Chadian West Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
- Bus: Multiple bus routes available
Services and Features:
- Southern Region: Closer to the southern parts of Guilin, making it convenient for trips to places like Yangshuo.
- Long-Distance Buses: Provides buses to surrounding areas and further destinations.
Suitable for:
- Southern Destinations: Ideal for travelers planning to visit southern attractions like Yangshuo or Longsheng.
Ticket Purchase and Confirmation
- Book your tickets in advance via official websites, apps, or directly at the station to confirm departure times, as schedules may change.
- Verify departure and arrival times to ensure you have enough time to reach the station.
Comfort
- Choose a bus with air conditioning and sleeper seats for a comfortable long-distance journey.
- Bring a small blanket, earplugs, and other items to improve your sleep quality.
Connection Planning
- Plan your connections in Guilin ahead of time, including information on buses, subways, or taxis near the station.
- During peak travel times, you may need to wait, so booking accommodation in advance can save you from the hassle of finding a place after a long journey.
Depending on your personal needs and preferences, you can select the most suitable station and travel time to enjoy your bus journey from Guangzhou to Guilin.
Driving from Guangzhou to Guilin
If you wish to experience the freedom of stopping whenever and wherever you want, driving from Guangzhou to Guilin is an excellent option. However, it’s essential to note that in China, traffic rules require driving on the right side of the road, meaning the cars have left-hand steering. If your country uses right-hand steering, it might not be ideal for you to drive in China.
Car Rental and Driver’s License:
- International Driver’s License: Ensure you have a valid International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or a Chinese driver’s license. Confirm with the rental company about the types of licenses they accept before renting a car.
- Car Rental Services: Book your vehicle online in advance, choosing from international chains or reputable local car rental companies.
Insurance and Support
- Full Insurance: Make sure your car rental includes comprehensive insurance. Familiarize yourself with the insurance terms and emergency assistance services.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts for the car rental company and roadside assistance services.
Navigation and Maps
- Bilingual Navigation: Use navigation software that supports English, and download offline maps to ensure navigation even in areas with poor network coverage.
- Printed Maps: Print out bilingual maps for critical sections of your route as a backup in case the navigation system fails.
Route Planning
- G76 Xiarong Expressway and G65 Baomao Expressway: Familiarize yourself with the highway network and choose the most suitable route.
- Alternative Routes: Keep an eye on weather and traffic conditions, and plan alternate routes just in case.
Parking and Reservations
- Hotel Parking: Confirm whether your hotel offers parking services, or book public parking in advance online.
- Safe Parking: Always park your car in monitored areas to ensure its safety.
Car Return and Settlement
- Vehicle Inspection: Conduct a thorough inspection of the car with the rental company before returning it to ensure no new damages have occurred.
- Settlement of Charges: Verify all charges and understand if there are any additional fees.
Both Guangzhou and Guilin are popular tourist destinations in China. If you choose to drive, be aware that parking spaces may be limited, and parking fees in scenic areas can be quite high.
Conclusion
Both Guangzhou and Guilin are popular travel destinations in China, and the transportation options between them are convenient. You can choose the best mode of transportation according to your schedule. The most important aspect of your journey is the beautiful scenery, which will leave lasting memories. I hope you have a wonderful trip and an enjoyable journey.
