Guilin's railway stations

Guilin North (Guilinbei) is the main high-speed station, north of the city centre. Most trains from Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Guiyang use it. The station is modern and easy to navigate, with taxis and buses outside. It is 20 to 30 minutes from the city centre, depending on traffic.

If you are staying in the city centre, allow 40 minutes to get to the station. If you have an early train, consider a hotel near the station, as described in the Diecai district guide.

Guilin Station is the older central station, south of the city centre. It handles some high-speed trains as well as slower services. It is closer to the lakes and the main hotels than North Station, which makes it convenient if your train uses it.

Check your ticket carefully. The station name is printed in Chinese and English, and the two stations are often confused. A taxi driver will know both; show them the Chinese characters if you have them.

Guilin West is a smaller station on the western side of the city, used by some trains toward Guiyang and Chongqing. It is less convenient for the centre. Yangshuo Station is the bigger trap: it is in Xingping, about 40 minutes from Yangshuo town and 20 minutes from Xingping old town.

If you are staying in Xingping, Yangshuo Station is ideal. If you are staying in Yangshuo town, you need a shuttle or taxi from the station. The Xingping area guide explains the transfer.

High-speed trains connect Guilin to Guangzhou (about 2.5 hours), Shenzhen (about 3.5 hours), Hong Kong West Kowloon (about 3.5 to 4 hours, subject to service), Guiyang (about 2 hours), and Shanghai (about 9 hours). Overnight trains are slower but can save a hotel night.

Book tickets through the official Railway 12306 app or a reputable agent. Passports are required, and tickets are tied to your identity. The getting around briefing covers transfers from the stations.