Guiyang (Railway Station)

It is important for passengers to know that the station has a clear separation between arrival and departure zones. Entry to the building is via the main square, where an initial security check of luggage and ticket verification takes place. Inside, there are spacious waiting halls, numbered for easy orientation. Please pay attention to the electronic display boards: information is duplicated in English, which significantly facilitates navigation for international guests.

• Official Website: www.12306.cn (China's unified railway portal).
• Information Phone: +86 12306 (hotline, English support may be limited).
• Address: China, Guizhou Province, Guiyang, Nanming District, Sihu Avenue.
• Opening Hours: The station operates 24/7, however, ticket counters may have technical breaks during the night.
• Luggage Storage: Available in the waiting hall and on the station square (paid service, cost depends on luggage size).
• Accessibility: The station is equipped with ramps and elevators for passengers with reduced mobility; it is recommended to notify staff in advance if assistance is required.

Getting to Guiyang Railway Station is quite simple, as it is located not far from the city centre. The most convenient way is to use the Metro. The Guiyang Railway Station stop is on Line 1, which directly connects the station with other important districts and the North Station.

If you prefer ground transport, numerous city buses run to the station. The bus stop is located directly on the station square. A trip by taxi from the city centre will take about 15–20 minutes (costing approximately 15–25 CNY), and from Guiyang Longdongbao Airport — about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

For those staying in the Nanming District, a walking route is possible, as there are many hotels and shopping streets around the station. However, please consider the terrain and your luggage.

A wide range of services is available to travellers within the station. In the main hall, there are ticket counters where international tourists can buy or exchange tickets by presenting their passport (self-service machines often only work with Chinese ID cards).

For comfortable waiting, large halls with seating are provided, as well as VIP lounges for enhanced comfort (for an additional fee). An important feature of Chinese stations is the availability of free dispensers with hot boiled water, so many passengers carry thermos flasks or instant noodles.

Among other amenities:

• Restrooms (usually free of charge).
• Small shops selling newspapers and souvenirs.
• Mobile device charging points (may be occupied during peak hours).
• Security and inspection zones at the entrance.

If you are hungry, there are many options for a snack at the station and in its vicinity. Inside the building, you can often find chain fast-food outlets such as KFC or McDonald's, as well as local eateries offering quick rice and noodle dishes. The average bill in such places is 30–50 CNY.

To experience the local cuisine of Guizhou, we recommend going out to the station square or walking to the neighbouring streets. Here, it is worth trying the famous Beef Rice Noodles — a hearty and spicy dish, ideal before a long journey. There are also many 24-hour convenience stores nearby where you can buy water, snacks, fruit, and ready-made meals for the road.

The history of Guiyang Railway Station began in the mid-20th century. It was opened in 1959 and became a vital link connecting the mountainous province of Guizhou with the rest of China. For a long time, it served as the region's main railway gateway.

Over the decades of its existence, the station has undergone several large-scale renovations. The most significant modernisation was carried out in recent years to adapt the old infrastructure to modern standards and growing passenger traffic. Despite the opening of new high-speed stations (North and East), the old Guiyang station retains its significance, servicing both traditional trains and some modern expresses, remaining a symbol of the city's transport development.

The main advice for passengers in China is to arrive early. It is recommended to be at the station at least 1–1.5 hours before the train departs. This is due to mandatory security procedures: tickets and passports are checked at the entrance, and all luggage is scanned, which can create queues.

Always keep your passport with you; it will be needed not only when purchasing a ticket but also when entering the building and boarding. If you have an electronic ticket, ensure you know your train and carriage number. Watch the display boards: boarding (Check-in) usually closes 5 minutes before the train departs.

If you have a night transfer, be attentive to your belongings, although the station is patrolled by police. For convenience, download a translation app on your phone in advance, as staff may not be fluent in English.