BenXi (Railway Station)

Passengers should head towards the central entrance, where the baggage screening and document check area is located. Inside the station, navigation is quite simple: electronic boards indicate track numbers and departure times, and the gates to the platforms (Ticket Check gates) generally open 15–20 minutes before the train's arrival. To transfer to other services, follow the Transfer signs without leaving the secure area, provided your ticket permits this.

• Official Website (Booking): 12306.cn (China's unified railway system).
• Inquiry Phone: +86 12306 (China Railway hotline).
• Address: Jiefang Road, Pingshan District, Benxi, Liaoning Province, China.
• Opening Hours: 24 hours (ticket counters may have technical breaks, but the waiting hall is accessible according to the train schedule).
• Luggage Storage: Left Luggage service is available (usually for a fee, passport required).
• Accessibility: Ramps and dedicated waiting areas are available for People of Determination (passengers with reduced mobility).

Getting to Benxi station is effortless, as it is located in a lively part of the city. The most popular method is using public buses; many routes (such as No. 1, 16, 17) terminate at or pass directly through the station square. This is a budget-friendly and reliable option for those travelling light.

For those who value comfort or are carrying heavy luggage, a taxi is the optimal choice. A trip from most central hotels will take no more than 15–20 minutes and is quite affordable compared to European prices. If you are staying in the area of Jiefang Road, you can easily walk to the station while enjoying the city atmosphere.

The station offers a standard range of services typical of Chinese railways. The main hall houses ticket counters, where international tourists can purchase or print tickets by presenting their passport (self-service machines often accept only Chinese ID cards). Spacious halls with seating are provided for waiting, as well as a separate VIP zone for an additional fee.

Among the amenities, it is worth noting the availability of free dispensers with hot water (boiling water)—an indispensable feature for making tea or noodles for the journey. Washrooms are available on the premises, and there are small kiosks selling newspapers and beverages. Access to Wi-Fi may require authorisation via a Chinese mobile number.

Inside the station itself, food options are usually limited to small shops where you can buy snacks, water, vacuum-packed treats, and, of course, instant noodles. This is the most popular quick snack option among local travellers.

If you have time before departure, it is better to step out onto the station square. Within walking distance, there are numerous affordable cafés and restaurants offering Dongbei cuisine (Northeast Chinese cuisine), dumplings, and hearty meat dishes. The average bill here is very reasonable.

The history of rail transport in Benxi is closely tied to the industrial development of the region. The station was founded in the early 20th century as a key point on the Shenyang–Dandong line, facilitating the transport of coal and iron ore, for which this land is famous. The station has witnessed the city's rapid industrial growth.

Over the past decades, the building and infrastructure have undergone repeated renovation and modernisation to meet the growing passenger flow and modern safety standards. Today, it is not just a freight station, but a modern passenger terminal integrated into China's extensive railway network.

The main rule for travelling by train in China is to arrive early. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 60 minutes before departure, as security procedures and passport control can take time, especially during peak hours or holidays.

International tourists must remember that the original passport is always required for boarding. Keep a close watch on your train number on the display board: boarding usually closes 5 minutes before departure. If you plan to wait overnight, please note that the halls can be cool, so it is advisable to have warm clothing with you.