Shiyan (Railway Station)

It is important for passengers to know that navigation inside the station is intuitive, and signs are often duplicated in English. Entry to the building is through security checkpoints located on the ground floor. Waiting halls are divided by train numbers, so please pay close attention to the information on the electronic display boards. Access to platforms is provided via underground tunnels or overhead bridges equipped with escalators.

• Official Website: www.12306.cn (China's unified railway portal)
• Helpline: 12306 (hotline, support available in Chinese and English)
• Address: Chezhan Road, Maojian District, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
• Opening Hours: 24 hours (ticket counters may have technical breaks)
• Luggage Storage: Available in the main hall; the cost depends on the size of the luggage
• Accessibility: The station is equipped with ramps and lifts for passengers with reduced mobility; if assistance is required, please contact staff at the Service Desk.

You can reach Shiyan station in several ways, depending on your location in the city and your budget.

Public Transport: Numerous bus routes lead to the station square, connecting the station with major city districts and tourist zones. Look for buses with the station name displayed on the board (in Chinese: 十堰站). A bus ride is the most budget-friendly option.

Taxi: This is the most convenient method for tourists with luggage. A trip from the city centre usually takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. It is recommended to have the station name written in Chinese characters to show the driver.

Walking: If you are staying in the Maojian District, you can walk to the station by following Chezhan Road. However, please consider the terrain and whether you are carrying heavy luggage.

Shiyan station offers a wide range of services to ensure a comfortable wait for your train.

The building features spacious waiting halls with ample seating. For passengers who value enhanced comfort, VIP lounges are often available (for an additional fee or business class ticket holders). Ticket counters and automatic terminals are located at the entrance; please note that machines often accept only Chinese ID cards, so international visitors are advised to visit the ticket counter.

Other amenities include:

• Hot Water Dispensers: Available free of charge in waiting halls (a popular service in China, useful for making tea or instant noodles).
• Restrooms: Located on every floor and cleaned regularly.
• Device Charging: Power outlets or power bank rental stations can be found in the waiting halls.
• Shops: Small kiosks selling newspapers, beverages, and souvenirs.

If you are hungry before your journey, there are several dining options at Shiyan station and in its vicinity.

Inside the terminal, small shops typically operate where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and instant noodles (which can be prepared using the free boiling water directly in the waiting hall). You may also find chain fast-food cafes serving burgers or rice dishes.

For a more substantial meal, it is recommended to exit to the station square. Here, numerous local restaurants offer Hubei cuisine. This is an excellent opportunity to try spicy noodles or dumplings at affordable prices. The average bill for a hearty lunch will be around 20–40 RMB. If you prefer familiar international food, KFC or McDonald's can often be found within walking distance.

The history of Shiyan Railway Station is inextricably linked to the development of the city itself as a major industrial centre. Originally built to support the logistics of the developing automobile factories, the station became a vital artery connecting this mountainous region with the rest of China.

Over the years, the station has undergone several stages of reconstruction and modernisation to accommodate the growing passenger flow. From a strictly utilitarian transport hub, the station has transformed into a modern gateway to the city, welcoming not only workers and engineers but also thousands of tourists seeking to visit the Taoist shrines of the Wudang Mountains. The development of the railway network in this region has significantly accelerated the economic growth of Hubei Province.

To ensure your trip through Shiyan station goes smoothly, please consider the following advice:

Arrival and Control: Strict security measures are in place at railway stations in China. Arrive at least 1–1.5 hours before your train's departure to clear luggage checks and personal screening without rushing.

Tickets and Documents: Always keep your passport with you. International tourists often need to obtain a paper ticket at the counter or undergo manual document checks at the gate, as automatic turnstiles may not read passports. Keep your ticket until you exit the destination station — it may be checked at the end of your journey.

Boarding: Boarding usually closes 5 minutes before departure. Listen carefully to announcements and watch the platform numbers on the display boards.

Luggage: Avoid carrying prohibited items (such as knives or flammable sprays), as they will be confiscated during security checks.