How to Get to Guilin from Shanghai

Today, we embark on an extraordinary journey that connects the bustling urban jungle of Shanghai with the breathtaking natural wonders of Guilin.

When people mention Guilin, the phrase “Guilin’s landscape is second to none” immediately comes to mind. Its stunning mountains and the crystal-clear Li River form a picturesque scene, like a living ink painting that has captivated countless hearts. On the other hand, Shanghai, a global metropolis, stands as the economic powerhouse of China and a gateway to the world.

Now, imagine starting your morning savoring traditional snacks in the towering skyscrapers of Shanghai, only to find yourself by the afternoon gliding along the serene rivers of Guilin, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Whether you’re visiting China for the first time or are already familiar with its charm, the journey from Shanghai to Guilin offers a striking contrast between two different worlds, each with its own allure.

So, how can you seamlessly travel between these two captivating destinations, blending culture and nature into one unforgettable experience? Follow our detailed guide, where we’ll walk you through the best ways to make this trip smooth, efficient, and filled with cherished memories.

Let’s begin this unique adventure from the modern marvels of Shanghai to the ancient, scenic wonders of Guilin!

Traveling from Shanghai to Guilin: By Airplane

Flying from Shanghai to Guilin is undoubtedly the best option for travelers seeking efficiency and comfort. As one of the fastest ways to travel, a flight from Shanghai to Guilin takes just over two hours. This means you can easily transition from the hustle and bustle of a major metropolis to the serene landscapes of Guilin in a single day, saving you valuable travel time.

Booking Flights

You can book a direct flight from Shanghai to Guilin through platforms like Expedia. As shown in the image below:

Airports Overview

• Shanghai Pudong International Airport: One of Asia’s busiest hubs, offering excellent facilities and a wide range of international flights.
• Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport: Located closer to the city center, this airport primarily serves domestic flights, providing convenient access.
• Guilin Liangjiang International Airport: Equipped with modern facilities, this airport offers various ground transportation options such as car rentals, buses, and taxis to seamlessly connect you to your next destination.

Preparations and Tips

• Document Check: Ensure your passport is valid and that you’ve obtained your Chinese visa before traveling.
• Baggage: Familiarize yourself with the luggage policies of your airline to avoid extra fees for checked or carry-on bags.
• Online Check-In: Use your airline’s mobile app or website to check in online and save time by skipping long airport lines.

Upon Arrival: Navigating Guilin

• Check Ahead: Before your journey, review the latest transport guides to familiarize yourself with the route from the airport to your hotel.
• Transportation Options: Depending on your preferences, choose from taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, or the metro to reach your destination efficiently.

Traveling from Shanghai to Guilin: By High-Speed Train

High-speed rail captures the hearts of travelers who love the journey as much as the destination. It’s not just a mode of transportation; it’s an opportunity to connect with the scenery along the way. Unlike the speed of air travel, taking the train offers a more leisurely experience.

If you’re a foreign traveler, experiencing China’s high-speed trains and the country’s incredible infrastructure is a must. Along the journey, you’ll be able to see unique landscapes that differ from those visible by air.

Trip Planning: A Perfect Blend of Convenience and Comfort

• Departure Station: Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, one of the largest transportation hubs in the country, connecting the north, south, east, and west of China.
• Arrival Station: Either Guilin North or Guilin Railway Station, both of which have direct trains. You can choose your arrival station based on personal preference.
• Frequent Departures: There are multiple trains running every day, so you can plan your trip and book your tickets in advance based on your schedule.
• Ticket Booking: Tickets can be purchased in advance through platforms like Trip.com. It’s recommended to book early during holidays.

Train Schedule from Shanghai to Guilin:

Guilin Railway Station

• Location: Located at 39 Zhongshan South Road, Xiangshan District, close to the city center, making it convenient for travelers to reach various tourist attractions.
• Transport Links: The area around Guilin Railway Station is well connected with buses and taxis, making it easy for tourists to explore the city.
• Facilities: As one of the older stations, Guilin Railway Station has comprehensive services including waiting rooms, ticket counters, and dining options.
• Destination Access: This station primarily serves trains heading to the north and south, making it ideal for visitors traveling to Guilin city and surrounding areas.

Guilin North Railway Station

• Location: Situated at 6 Zhanqian Road, Diecai District, about 8 kilometers from the city center.
• Transport Links: Although further from the city center, Guilin North Station also provides buses and taxis. As a major hub, it offers more long-distance buses and intercity trains.
• Facilities: As a newer station, Guilin North is more modern, with spacious waiting areas and enhanced comfort for passengers.
• Destination Access: Guilin North Station primarily serves trains to the east and west, including high-speed trains, making it a great choice for those planning to visit nearby areas like Yangshuo.

If your destination is Guilin’s city center, especially popular spots like Elephant Trunk Hill, Dongxi Lane, Zhengyang Street, or the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, Guilin Railway Station is the better choice to minimize transfers and travel time.

However, if you plan to head to Yangshuo or Xingping Ancient Town, departing from Guilin North Railway Station and taking a direct high-speed train to Yangshuo Station would be a faster option.

Scenic Views Along the Journey

• Yangtze River Delta Charm: As you leave the bustling city of Shanghai, you’ll be treated to views of serene water towns and poetic rice fields.
• Zhejiang and Jiangxi Mountains: After passing the picturesque Qiandao Lake in Zhejiang, the train enters the lush, rolling mountains of Jiangxi.
• Xiang-Gui Corridor: Passing through Hunan, you’ll then find yourself in Guangxi’s stunning karst landscape, showcasing the wonders of nature.

Travel Tips

• Pack Essentials: Bring a good book and a pair of headphones to enjoy some personal downtime.
• Food: While food is available at the station and onboard, it’s always a good idea to pack some snacks for the journey.
• Photography: Capture the beautiful landscapes through the train’s windows, using them as a natural frame to highlight the breathtaking views.

Travel Tips

1. Visa and Documentation

• Chinese Visa: Ensure you have a valid Chinese tourist visa. Apply at a Chinese consulate or embassy in advance, and pay attention to the visa’s validity period and allowed stay duration.
• Valid ID: Always carry your passport, as you may be required to show identification in certain situations.

2. Payment Methods

• Popular Electronic Payments: China widely uses WeChat Pay and Alipay. Download these apps and link them to your international credit card for smoother transactions.
• Carry Some Cash: Keep some Chinese yuan (RMB) for places that do not accept electronic payments, such as small vendors or remote areas.

3. Communication

• Translation Tools: Bring a smartphone translation app, or learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to help with simple conversations.
• Help Cards: Create a small card with your destination and personal details. In case of an emergency, it will be easier for others to assist you.

4. Local Etiquette

• Respect Traditions: When visiting local temples or ancestral halls, remember to be respectful of Chinese customs and traditions.
• Dining Etiquette: Learn to use chopsticks and try to avoid tapping them on bowls or sticking them into food vertically, as this is considered bad etiquette in Chinese culture.

5. Weather and Health

• Dress Appropriately: Check the local weather forecast for Guilin and dress accordingly, especially since spring and autumn can have significant temperature variations.
• Personal Protection: Bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and any personal medications to handle potential outdoor conditions.

6. Safety Precautions

• Keep Valuables Safe: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded public areas.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep important phone numbers for the police, hospitals, and other emergency services handy, and familiarize yourself with how to contact them.

7. Transportation

• High-Speed Train Tickets: Use Trip.com, which offers an English interface, to check train schedules and purchase tickets online.
• Public Transport Guide: Buses and taxis are convenient in Guilin, but it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with routes and fare ranges to avoid getting lost or overcharged.

8. Accommodation

• Booking Confirmation: Use Booking.com to reserve your hotel, and confirm the booking details, including cancellation policies.
• Safety Check: Upon checking in, ensure the room’s facilities are in working order and familiarize yourself with the fire safety exits.

Guilin Travel Highlights

Guilin, a city renowned for its stunning landscapes, offers both natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. Below are some must-visit spots that showcase the unique charm of Guilin.

1. Li River Bamboo Rafting

• Highlights: Glide slowly down the clear, emerald-green waters of the Li River on a bamboo raft. Towering karst peaks and lush bamboo groves are reflected in the water, creating a scene reminiscent of a Chinese ink painting.
• Tips: The soft morning light is perfect for photographers. Rafting during the summer is especially enjoyable when the water levels are higher.

2. West Street, Yangshuo

• Highlights: This ancient street with an exotic vibe is packed with bars, cafes, and unique shops. It comes alive at night with vibrant energy.
• Tips: Be sure to try the local specialties like Guilin rice noodles and beer fish, a culinary delight you can’t miss.

3. Yulong River Cycling

• Highlights: Rent a bike and ride along the scenic banks of the Yulong River, immersing yourself in the idyllic countryside.
• Tips: Spring offers fragrant blooms, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Each season has its own unique charm.

4. Impression Liu Sanjie Show

• Highlights: Directed by Zhang Yimou, this is the world’s largest outdoor show set against Guilin’s natural landscape. The performance beautifully combines the area’s karst scenery with traditional ethnic music and dance.
• Tips: Try to book seats closer to the water for the most immersive experience.

5. Elephant Trunk Hill Park

• Highlights: A symbolic attraction in Guilin, the elephant-shaped rock formation is a stunning sight. From the viewing platform, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Li River.
• Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.

6. Longji Rice Terraces

• Highlights: Known as the “most beautiful curves on Earth,” the rice terraces offer breathtaking views throughout the year, with autumn’s golden hues being particularly spectacular.
• Tips: It’s best to hire a car for the trip, as the winding mountain roads are challenging for self-driving. Wear comfortable hiking shoes for the trek.

Conclusion

This article has provided an in-depth look at two major travel options to Guilin—by air and by high-speed train, each offering a unique and enticing experience. Whether you choose to soar above the waterways of southern China or to savor the ever-changing scenery through the window of a high-speed train, the journey from Shanghai to Guilin is like turning the pages of a beautiful picture book.

Upon arriving in Guilin, whether you are drifting on a bamboo raft down the Li River, enjoying the vibrant nightlife on Yangshuo’s West Street, cycling leisurely along the Yulong River, or admiring the golden waves of the Longji Rice Terraces, every attraction tells a story unique to Guilin. Here, history and modernity intertwine, and nature and culture harmonize, painting a vivid and serene picture.

Guilin is not just a travel destination; it’s a symbol of the pursuit of beauty in every traveler’s heart. May every visitor, no matter where they come from, find their own peace and joy in this enchanting city.