Guilin (Railway Station)

Guilin Railway Station, also known as Guilin South Station, is one of the city's oldest and most significant transport hubs. Located in the bustling Xiangshan District, it serves as the main gateway for travelers arriving to enjoy the famous karst landscapes. Thanks to its central location, the station provides convenient access to most hotels and tourist zones.

Although the building is smaller in size compared to the new high-speed terminals, it retains its relevance by servicing both conventional and some high-speed trains. Passengers should note that the station is currently undergoing modernization, so navigation here can be slightly confusing due to the heavy flow of people.

For successful orientation, it is important to know that entry to the building is via the main square, where the primary luggage screening and ticket checks take place. Waiting halls are located on two floors: passengers for regular trains usually wait on the ground floor, while those for high-speed trains wait on the first floor. Please watch the electronic display boards closely, as announcements in English may not always be audible.

To plan your trip or clarify details, please use the following contact information for Guilin Railway Station:

• Official Website: www.12306.cn (unified portal for China Railways).
• Inquiry Phone: +86 773 12306 (national hotline, Chinese or English language skills required).
• Address: Xiangshan District, Guilin, Guangxi, China (intersection of Zhongshan South Road and Shanghai Road).
• Opening Hours: 24 hours (ticket counters may have technical breaks during the night).
• Luggage Storage: Available inside the station building or at private points on the station square (Left Luggage).
• Accessibility: Entrance ramps and special waiting areas are available; however, it is recommended to request staff assistance in advance for boarding the train.

Getting to Guilin Railway Station is quite simple, as it is located practically in the city centre. The most popular method is by city bus. Dozens of routes pass through the Guilin Station stop, including Nos. 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11 and the special tourist line No. 100. The fare is usually a nominal amount, but be prepared for buses to be crowded during peak hours.

If you prefer comfort, use a taxi. A trip from the central part of the city will take just 10–15 minutes. Drivers know this location well; simply show the name in Chinese or say "Guilin Zhan". You can also walk to the station if your hotel is located on Zhongshan Road — the walk will take about 20–30 minutes.

The infrastructure of Guilin Railway Station offers a standard set of services for Chinese railways. The building houses ticket offices where international tourists can print tickets or purchase them upon presentation of a passport. Ticket vending machines are installed in the main hall, but they most often accept only Chinese ID cards.

For comfortable waiting, there are general halls with seating, as well as a VIP lounge (for an additional fee). Services available to passengers include:

• Hot Water Dispensers: Free of charge, suitable for making tea or instant noodles (you must bring your own thermos or cup).
• Restrooms: Located in the waiting areas (predominantly squat-style toilets).
• Shops: Small kiosks selling newspapers, beverages, and snacks.
• Device Charging: The number of power outlets is limited, so it is best to carry a power bank with you.

Inside the station itself, food choices are limited to small shops selling pre-packaged goods and instant noodles. Prices here may be higher than in the city. If you have time before departure, it is better to have a meal outside the station.

Around the station square and along Zhongshan South Road, there are many cafes. Here you will surely find the famous Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen) — a cheap, filling, and authentic option for breakfast or lunch. Note for Muslim travelers: please look for the Halal sign (green signage with Arabic or Chinese characters for 'Qing Zhen') as standard local recipes may not be Halal. Also within walking distance are chain fast-food restaurants (KFC, McDonald's) where you can have coffee and use the Wi-Fi. The average bill in local eateries is around 15–25 RMB.

The history of Guilin Railway Station is closely linked to the development of the railway network in southern China. The station was opened in 1938 as part of the strategically important Hunan–Guangxi line. For decades, it served as the region's main transport hub, connecting Guilin with the rest of the country.

Significant reconstruction took place in 2005, when the station was modernized to accommodate the increased flow of tourists. In recent years, with the arrival of the era of high-speed trains (CRH), the station's role has transformed: it now shares the load with the new North Station but remains the historical and logistical centre of the city.

The main advice for passengers: always check exactly which station your train departs from. The city has Guilin Railway Station (Centre), North, and West Stations. A mistake could cost you a missed train, as the distances between them are significant.

Arrive at the station at least 1 hour before departure. China has a strict security system: you will have to undergo luggage screening and passport control at the entrance. International tourists are advised to go through the counters or stands with staff (Manual Check), as automatic turnstiles do not always read passports.

If you have an overnight train or a long layover, keep a close watch on your belongings in the waiting halls. For boarding the train, pay close attention to the ticket colour (or information in the app): boarding usually closes 5 minutes before the train departs.