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Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train: Best Way from Guangzhou to Guilin

Written by Senior Expert Celine Schneider|Updated: 2024-12-16

Looking to travel from Guangzhou to Guilin? The high-speed train is your best bet! With over 60 departures throughout the day, you can travel the 446 km (277 miles) distance in just 2 to 2.5 hours, making it the fastest and most comfortable option. The train takes you directly from Guangzhou's city center to Guilin, without the hassle of airport procedures or traffic delays.

Guilin is known for its stunning karst mountains, serene Li River, and vibrant local culture, making it a top destination for travelers. Whether you're in the mood for sightseeing, nature exploration, or just enjoying the peaceful scenery, the high-speed train offers a convenient and enjoyable way to get there.

This comprehensive Guangzhou to Guilin Bullet Train guide is your go-to resource for planning your high speed train journey from Hong Kong to Guilin.

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  • triangleWhy High Speed Train is the Best Way from Guangzhou to Guilin
  • triangleGuangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Distance: 446 Km (277 Mi)
  • triangleGuangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Facts
  • triangleGuangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train: Timetable & Schedule
  • triangleGuangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train: Tickets & Prices
  • triangleHow to Book a Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Tickets
  • triangleGuangzhou to Guilin Bullet Train: Departure Railway Station in Guangzhou
  • triangleGuangzhou to Guilin Bullet Train: Arrival Railway Station in Guilin
  • triangleWhat to See & Do in Guilin When You Arrival
  • triangleHow to Plan a Guanghzou to Guilin Tour by Train
  • triangleGuilin Accommodation: Where to Stay in Guilin
  • triangleChina High Speed Train Ride Made Easy with AOT

Why High Speed Train is the Best Way from Guangzhou to Guilin

Five Rams Sculpture  in Yuexiu Park
Five Rams Sculpture in Yuexiu Park
Elephant Trunk Hill in Guilin
Elephant Trunk Hill in Guilin

Taking the high-speed train from Guangzhou to Guilin is currently the best way to travel. The journey only takes about 2 to 5 hours, providing a fast and comfortable trip between the city centers of both cities. Unlike flying, you don't have to worry about checking in, going through security, or long waits at the airport.

With over 60 departures each day, you can easily find a convenient time that fits your schedule. Additionally, during the off-peak travel months from November to March, there are no direct flights from Guangzhou to Guilin.

Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Distance: 446 Km (277 Mi)

Enjoy a China High Speed Train Ride
Enjoy a China High Speed Train Ride
Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Map
Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Map

The high-speed train from Guangzhou to Guilin covers a distance of 446 kilometers (277 miles). The journey is quick and convenient, typically taking around 2.5-5 hours.

Along the way, the train may stop at a few charming locations, including Zhaoqing and Yangshuo, offering a glimpse of the stunning landscapes of southern China. Whether you're traveling for leisure or business, this train ride provides a smooth and scenic route to one of China's most beautiful destinations, Guilin.

Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Facts

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There are around 60 high-speed trains running daily from Guangzhou to Guilin, offering plenty of options throughout the day. These trains are divided into G-trains and D-trains, with G-trains being faster. The trains operate from 6:40 AM to 8:30 PM, and the travel time ranges from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the train type. Ticket prices vary between 141 RMB to 821 RMB ($20 to $115), giving you a range of affordable choices for your trip.

Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train: Timetable & Schedule

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Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train: Tickets & Prices

Classes Facilities Prices (¥)
Second Class 3-2 seating arrangement, reclining seats, good legroom, budget-friendly 141-289
First Class 2-2 seating arrangement, wider seats, more legroom, reclines further, private 224-464
Business Class 2-1 seating arrangement, extra space, luxurious seating, more privacy, premium service 518-821

Second Class: Most Recommended

China High Speed Train: First Class Seats
China High Speed Train: First Class Seats
China High Speed Train: Second Class
China High Speed Train: Second Class

Second Class is the most popular and budget-friendly option on the Guangzhou to Guilin high-speed train. The seats are arranged in a 3-2 configuration, offering a good balance of comfort and space, especially for solo travelers or small groups. With ample legroom and a reclining feature, it's a great choice for the 2-5 hour journey. The price is reasonable, and you'll still get good service onboard, making it the most recommended choice for most travelers heading to Guilin.

First Class: Best for Family

First Class is perfect for families or those looking for more space on the Guangzhou to Guilin high-speed train. The seating is arranged in a 2-2 layout, providing more room and comfort. The wider seats recline further, making it easier to relax on the journey. This class offers a more private and spacious environment, which is ideal for families with children or anyone who wants a more comfortable, quiet ride. It's a bit pricier but worth it for the extra comfort and space.

Business Class: Most Comfort

For the ultimate in comfort, Business Class on the Guangzhou to Guilin high-speed train is the way to go. With a 2-1 seating layout, this class offers the most space, with wider, reclining seats and plenty of legroom. Business Class passengers enjoy more privacy and a more luxurious experience, making it ideal for those who want to travel in style or for business travelers who need a relaxing environment. It's the most comfortable option on the train, offering the highest level of service and amenities.

Business Class on bullet trains
Business Class on bullet trains
Business Class
Business Class

Warm Tip: For budget-conscious travelers looking to journey from Guangzhou to Guilin, opting for the D-trains can be a smart choice. These trains provide a cost-effective alternative to the faster G-trains, with notably lower seat prices. While the travel time may be slightly longer, the savings can make it worthwhile.

It's important to note, however, that D-trains lack business class accommodations, making them more suitable for tourists or casual travelers rather than business clientele.

How to Book a Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train Tickets

China High Speed Train Service
China High Speed Train Service
Ride fast trains in China
Ride fast trains in China

Booking tickets for the Guangzhou to Guilin high-speed train is straightforward but requires attention to detail. It's important to book in advance through official channels, such as the official railway website or reliable travel agencies, to secure your seat. Make sure the name on your booking matches the one on your passport to avoid any issues at the station.

Private Guangzhou to Guilin Bullet Train Transfer Service by Asia Odyssey Travel

If you're not familiar with the booking process, using a trusted travel service like ASIA ODYSSEY TTRAVEL can help you navigate the system and avoid confusion, especially when dealing with Chinese characters and train stations. For a seamless experience, consider booking through a travel agency, where we handle all the details for you. This ensures you can enjoy the stunning journey without worrying about the logistics.

Guangzhou to Guilin Bullet Train: Departure Railway Station in Guangzhou

Guangzhou South Railway Station
Guangzhou South Railway Station
广州南站
Shibi Village, Shibi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou
Located about 20 km from downtown Guangzhou, Guangzhou South Railway Station is connected by Metro Lines 2, 7, and 22, plus buses, taxis, and private cars. Travel to the Canton Tower or Pearl River by metro takes within 1 hour. Intercity rail links to cities like Shenzhen and Foshan enhance convenience.
Guangzhou North Railway Station
Guangzhou North Railway Station
广州北站
1 Zhanqian Road, Huadu District, Guangzhou
Guangzhou North Railway Station is the furthest train station from the city center, about 40 kilometers and about 1.5 hours by subway. It is connected via Metro Line 9, buses, taxis, private cars and intercity rails. Major attractions like the Canton Tower and Pearl River are within 1.5 hours by metro.

How to Board the High Speed Train in Guangzhou

Boarding the high-speed train in Guangzhou is pretty simple, but it's good to know the steps in advance. Once you arrive at Guangzhou South Station, make sure you have your ticket and passport ready for security checks. Head to your train's departure area, which will be clearly marked, and find your platform based on the ticket information.

Follow the signs for the correct waiting area, and when it's time, you can line up according to your seat class. Just make sure to board the train with plenty of time to spare, so you can relax and enjoy the ride!

Guangzhou to Guilin Bullet Train: Arrival Railway Station in Guilin

Guilin Railway Station
Guilin Railway Station
桂林站
No. 39, Zhongshan South Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin, Guangxi
Located in the city center, Guilin Railway Station is the most convenient option for accessing nearby attractions. Transportation options include rails, buses, taxis, and airport shuttles. It connects to Elephant Trunk Hill (30 minutes by bus), Li River Scenic Area (within 2 hours by bus), and Yangshuo (50 minutes by high-speed train).
Guilin North Railway Station
Guilin North Railway Station
桂林北站
No.6, Zhanqian Road, Diecai District, Guilin, Guangxi
As the largest station in Guilin, Guilin North offers excellent connectivity via rails, airport buses, city shuttles, and taxis. It’s a 1-hour bus ride to downtown Guilin and Elephant Trunk Hill, 2 hours to the Li River, and under 30 minutes to Yangshuo by high-speed train, making it a popular choice for travelers.

Guilin West Station and Guilin North Station are the main arrival points for high-speed trains from Guangzhou to Guilin. Only a very small number of high-speed trains stop at Guilin Railway Station, which is closer to the city center and the scenic spots within Guilin itself.

What to See & Do in Guilin When You Arrival

When you step off the train in Guilin, you're not just arriving at a new city; you're stepping into a landscape straight out of a traditional Chinese painting. Known for its stunning scenery, Guilin is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural sights, and there's plenty to keep you busy.

Li River cruise: Start with a cruise down the Li River. This is the centerpiece of any Guilin adventure. The river winds through dramatic karst mountains, and the views are iconic — think mist-covered hills and fishermen on bamboo rafts, which are so picturesque they appear on the Chinese 20 Yuan note. Opt for a leisurely boat ride from Guilin to Yangshuo to capture photos worthy of a gallery.

Elephant Trunk Hill: One of Guilin's most famous natural sights is Elephant Trunk Hill, which remarkably resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the river. It's a quick and delightful stop that's perfect for a serene morning walk.

Reed Flute Cave in Guilin
Reed Flute Cave in Guilin
Elephant Trunk Hill Autumn View
Elephant Trunk Hill Autumn View

Reed Flute Cave: Don't miss the Reed Flute Cave, a magical place where nature has sculpted some fantastic limestone formations, illuminated by colorful lights. The cave has a history of over 1200 years as a tourist attraction and offers some of the most spectacular underground scenery in China.

Yangshuo: Make a day trip to Yangshuo, which is just an hour away by bus. Here, you can bike among the rice paddies and limestone peaks or take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.

How to Plan a Guanghzou to Guilin Tour by Train

Bamboo raft on Yulong River
Bamboo raft on Yulong River
Graceful Water Buffaloes Along Yulong River: A Picturesque Encountera
Graceful Water Buffaloes Along Yulong River: A Picturesque Encountera

Planning a Guangzhou to Guilin train tour is a fantastic way to experience both cities at a relaxed pace. The train ride itself takes about 2 to 5 hours, covering a distance of 446 km (277 miles). You'll only need a day for the journey, leaving you plenty of time to explore both cities.

Guangzhou (2-3 Days): Spend a couple of days in Guangzhou to explore its mix of modernity and history. Don't miss the Canton Tower, Yuexiu Park, and try some famous Cantonese dim sum.

Guilin (2-3 Days): Guilin's stunning karst landscapes deserve a few days. Take a Li River cruise, visit Reed Flute Cave, and explore the Elephant Trunk Hill. This plan gives you enough time to enjoy both cities without feeling rushed.

Here is a Guangzhou to Guilin itinerary you can refer to:

Day 1: Guangzhou to Guilin by Bullet Train

Day 2: Guilin to Longsheng Tour (Huangluo Yao Village, Ping'an Village, Longji Rice Terrace)

Day 3: Longsheng to Guilin (Dazhai Village, Longji Rice Terrace Sunrise)

Day 4: Guilin to Yangshuo Tour (Li River Cruise, Chinese Calligraphy or Cooking Class, West Street)

Day 5: Yangshuo Tour (Yangshuo Countryside Cycling, Bamboo Rafting along the Yulong River)

Day 6: Yangshuo to Guilin Departure (Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Airport Transfers)

Guilin Accommodation: Where to Stay in Guilin

When planning your trip to Guilin, you'll find a range of accommodation options to match your budget and preferences, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts.

West Street, Yangshuo
West Street, Yangshuo
Panoramic View of Jingjiang Prince’s City in Guilin
Panoramic View of Jingjiang Prince’s City in Guilin

Location Considerations:

Near the City Center and Reed Flute Cave: Staying close to the city center offers easy access to shopping, dining, and attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill and the Reed Flute Cave. It's ideal for those who want to explore the city's cultural sites.

Near the Li River: If you're after breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings, consider staying near the Li River. Many hotels and resorts offer scenic views, perfect for those planning a river cruise.

West Street, Yangshuo
West Street, Yangshuo
Panoramic View of Jingjiang Prince’s City in Guilin
Panoramic View of Jingjiang Prince’s City in Guilin

Yangshuo: If you want to experience more of the countryside, staying in Yangshuo gives you access to the beautiful karst mountains and outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. Though it's a bit farther from the city, the tranquil atmosphere is well worth it.

China High Speed Train Ride Made Easy with AOT

Let Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) handle your high-speed rail adventures in China! We'll book your tickets, guide you through stations, and provide 24/7 support. Skip the confusion and travel stress-free with us.

Tour Packeges: China High Speed Train Tour Packages

China High Speed Train Cities: Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Hong Kong

Useful Travel Tips: China High Speed Train Guide

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