Zhangjiajie and Guilin are two of China’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of domestic and international travelers each year. One is famous for its stunning forest of stone pillars, while the other is a perfect blend of breathtaking mountains and rivers.
In today’s blog, we won’t delve into the scenic beauty of these locations. Instead, we’ll focus on something more practical: how to travel between Zhangjiajie and Guilin. Whether you’re starting from Zhangjiajie or Guilin, we’ve got you covered with all the essential travel tips.
Let’s explore the best transportation options between these two cities, whether you prefer flying, taking a train, bus, or even driving yourself. There’s a method that suits every type of traveler.
Comparison of Different Transportation Options
I’ve created a simple table to highlight the key differences between the transportation options available when traveling between Guilin and Zhangjiajie. This will help you choose the most convenient, comfortable, and efficient way to travel.
| Mode of Transport | Duration (One-way) | Cost (Estimated Range) | Comfort Level | Convenience | Flexibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air (No Direct Flights) | >5 hours* | High (¥500+) | High | Moderate | Low | Business travelers, those accustomed to flying |
| High-speed Train | ~7 hours | Moderate (¥342+) | High | High | Moderate | Most tourists |
| Driving | ~7-8 hours | Variable | Varies by vehicle | High | High | Travelers who prefer flexibility in planning |
- Note: Total flight time includes layovers and may vary depending on the connecting city.
As you can see from the table, in China, high-speed trains offer a great balance between speed and comfort. While flights take longer due to layovers, high-speed trains provide a more convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities. Driving is ideal for those wanting to explore more along the way.
High-Speed Train Transportation Guide
Direct High-Speed Train from Zhangjiajie to Guilin
There is only one direct high-speed train from Zhangjiajie to Guilin each day.
- Train Number: D3967, departs from Zhangjiajie West Station and arrives at either Guilin Station or Guilin North Station.
- Departure Time: 07:17 from Zhangjiajie West Station.
- Arrival Times: 14:07 at Guilin North Station, 14:21 at Guilin Station.
- Total Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes or 7 hours 4 minutes, depending on the station.
Direct High-Speed Train from Guilin to Zhangjiajie
There is also only one direct high-speed train departing from Guilin to Zhangjiajie each day.
- Train Number: D3968, departs from either Guilin Station or Guilin North Station, directly to Zhangjiajie West Station.
- Departure Times: 14:38 from Guilin Station, 14:55 from Guilin North Station.
- Arrival Time: 22:14 at Zhangjiajie West Station.
- Total Duration: 7 hours 19 minutes or 7 hours 36 minutes, depending on the station.
Differences Between Guilin North Station and Guilin Station
Guilin Station
- Location: Situated in Xiangshan District, near Guilin’s city center. It offers convenient access to the city and nearby attractions like the Li River and Elephant Trunk Hill, making it ideal for travelers who want to quickly immerse themselves in both urban and natural sights.
- Function: Primarily handles regular trains and some high-speed trains. It serves as one of Guilin’s key transportation hubs.
- Surroundings: The area is well-serviced by buses and is close to commercial districts, providing easy access to dining, accommodations, and shopping.
Guilin North Station
- Location: Located in Diecai District, farther from the city center. It forms a northern railway hub together with Guilin West Station.
- Function: Mainly serves as the stop for high-speed trains, handling most of the bullet trains departing from and passing through Guilin.
- Surroundings: Though farther from the city center, it has well-developed facilities and direct bus and taxi connections to downtown and major attractions.
Travel Preparation
- Packing Tips: Keep luggage light and only bring essential items and a few changes of clothes to reduce the burden.
- Online Meal Ordering: Some high-speed trains offer online meal services, allowing you to pre-order via apps and enjoy a meal during the trip.
- Entertainment: Bring books, headphones, or download movies in advance to make the long journey more enjoyable.
Onboard Tips
- Seat Selection: If you prefer scenic views, choose a window seat in the direction of travel. For a smoother experience, select a seat in the middle of the carriage to reduce motion.
- Charging Facilities: Since power outlets on trains may be limited, consider bringing a portable charger.
- Eco-consciousness: Bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single-use plastic and contribute to environmental protection.
Upon Arrival
- Connecting Transport: Research the bus routes near Guilin North Station or pre-book a ride-hailing service to easily reach your hotel or attractions.
- Weather Considerations: Be aware of the temperature differences between the two destinations and adjust your clothing accordingly to avoid catching a cold.
Self-Driving Transportation Guide
There are multiple driving routes available for traveling between Zhangjiajie and Guilin, with the three most common ones being: 1. Longji Expressway and Baomao Expressway; 2. Hukun Expressway and Huben Expressway; 3. G241 National Highway and Baomao Expressway. Let’s take a look at the differences between these routes:
Recommended Driving Routes from Zhangjiajie to Guilin
- Longji Expressway → Baomao Expressway (龙吉高速 → 包茂高速)
- Distance: Approximately 590 kilometers
- Duration: Around 7 hours and 10 minutes
- Description: This route primarily passes through the western Hunan region, offering beautiful scenic views but also includes more mountain driving.
- Pros and Cons: The advantage is the relatively shorter distance and stunning landscapes along the way. However, during the rainy season or winter, driving conditions can become more challenging.
- Hukun Expressway → Huben Expressway (沪昆高速 → 呼北高速)
- Distance: About 635 kilometers
- Duration: Approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes
- Description: This route runs through the eastern part of Hunan Province before turning south into Guangxi.
- Pros and Cons: The advantage is the better infrastructure along the way, making for more stable driving conditions. However, the distance is longer, and the journey takes more time.
- G241 National Highway → Baomao Expressway (G241 → 包茂高速)
- Distance: About 582 kilometers
- Duration: Around 8 hours and 30 minutes
- Description: This route combines both national highways and expressways, making it a semi-highway option.
- Pros and Cons: The advantage is that it offers a more diverse range of sceneries along the way, giving you a chance to experience the local culture. The downside is that the driving speed is more limited, making the journey longer.
Key Tips for the Journey
- Service Area Usage: Several large service areas, such as the Fenghuang and Huaihua East Service Areas, are ideal for rest stops, refueling, and resupplying.
- Special Road Conditions: Be cautious when driving through mountainous areas, as there are many tunnels and sharp turns. Drive slowly and use fog lights to enhance visibility.
Safety and Preparedness
- Vehicle Check: Before setting off, ensure to check the tires, brakes, lights, and oil levels to guarantee safety on the road.
- Emergency Gear: Keep essential tools in the car, such as a warning triangle, first-aid kit, and multi-purpose wrench to handle emergencies.
Regulations and Road Monitoring
- Speed Limits and Fines: Familiarize yourself with highway speed limits to avoid violations. China’s highways are heavily monitored by cameras, and penalties for speeding are strict, resulting in fines and point deductions.
- Real-time Navigation Apps: Due to restrictions in China, Google Maps may not be available, but you can use alternatives like Amap (Gaode) or Baidu Maps to navigate and avoid traffic or accidents.
Parking and Navigation After Arrival
- Plan for Parking in Advance: Popular destinations in Guilin, such as Yangshuo and the Li River, often have limited parking spaces. It’s advisable to check parking facilities and estimate costs ahead of time.
- City Driving: Guilin’s urban roads can be complex. Drive carefully, and if needed, look for professional parking areas to avoid traffic violations.
Self-driving is not just a way to get from one place to another but also a way to explore the culture and landscapes along the way. With good planning and a focus on safety, the self-driving journey from Zhangjiajie to Guilin can be an unforgettable experience.
Useful Links for Your Trip
Planning your journey from Zhangjiajie to Guilin? Here are some practical links to help make your trip smoother, from booking transportation to finding local guides.
- Hotel Reservations
- Booking.com: Great for finding a wide range of hotels in both Zhangjiajie and Guilin, whether you’re looking for luxury resorts or budget stays. Offers user reviews and price comparisons to help you make the best choice.
- Flight Booking
- Trip.com: One of the best platforms for booking flights, especially within China. Even though there are no direct flights between Zhangjiajie and Guilin, Trip.com can help you find connecting flights or alternative routes.
- Local Tours and Guides
- GetYourGuide: Offers a variety of guided tours, including outdoor adventures in Zhangjiajie and river cruises in Guilin.
- Viator: Provides curated local tours and activities, from hiking in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to Li River boat tours in Guilin.
- Tripadvisor: Great for browsing and booking tours, checking reviews for local guides, and discovering popular attractions in both cities.
- Car Rentals for Self-Driving
- Kayak: If you’re planning to drive between the two cities, Kayak provides reliable car rental services. Ensure your trip is well-equipped with the right vehicle for navigating mountainous terrain.
By using these resources, you can plan every aspect of your trip with confidence, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey between these two stunning destinations.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Conclusion
In summary, traveling between Zhangjiajie and Guilin is easier than ever with several transportation options, including trains, flights, and self-driving routes. Whether you prefer the convenience of high-speed rail or the flexibility of driving, this guide has provided all the information you need to plan your trip. Now that you know your options, it’s time to make your decision and start planning your adventure. Book your tickets or map out your route, and enjoy a seamless journey between these two stunning destinations!
