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Why High Speed Train is the Best Way from Hong Kong to Guilin? (Bullet Train vs. Flight vs. Bus)
| Metric | High-Speed Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Travel Time | Approx. 4 hours (Total) | 4-5 hours (Typical) (1.5-hr flight time is misleading; most require long layovers) |
9.5 - 10.5 hours |
| Reliability & Frequency | 3 direct departures daily | Direct flights are rare, approx. 2x per week | Not direct (All routes require a transfer in Guangzhou) |
| Cost (Approx. One-Way) | $58+ USD | $100+ USD | NA |
| Convenience | Direct, city center to station | Requires airport transit; most routes require transfers | No direct service; mandatory transfer |
When you analyze the other options, the high-speed train is the clear winner. Direct flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Guilin (KWL) are rare, often operating only two days a week, and the flight itself is about 1.5-2 hours.
A bus is not a practical option for this route, as the journey takes over 10 hours and is far less comfortable. The high-speed train is the undisputed champion: it is the fastest, most convenient, and by far the most scenic way to travel from Hong Kong to Guilin.
Hong Kong to Guilin High Speed Train Facts: Distance (503-585 km), Duration (3-hour) & Train Route Map
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Here is what you need to know about the high-speed train from Hong Kong to Guilin. The distance in a straight line is 503 km (301 miles), but the rail line is a bit longer at 585 km (364 miles). The fastest journey takes just about 3 hours.
There are 3 fixed trains that leave every morning. Tickets cost between 412 and 1,204 Yuan.
We also have a route map so you can see your journey clearly. The train travels from east to west, passing through several major cities, including Shenzhen, Humen, Guangzhou, and Zhaoqing.
Hong Kong to Guilin: Live High Speed Train Schedule (12306 Data)
Use our live schedule, powered by a direct 12306 data feed, to find the direct trains for your trip. All direct trains depart from Hong Kong West Kowloon and, importantly, all arrive at Guilin West (桂林西).
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Hong Kong to Guilin Train Tickets & Prices: How to Choose Your Seat for 3-hour Jounery?
| Seat Class | Approx. Price (USD) | Approx. Price (CNY) |
|---|---|---|
| Second Class | ~$58 | ~¥412 |
| First Class | ~$83 | ~¥659 |
| Business Class | ~$156 | ~¥1,204 |
For a relatively short 3-hour trip, the choice between classes is simple.
Second Class features a 2+3 seating layout and is perfectly comfortable and the best value for this journey.
First Class offers a 2+2 layout , providing wider seats, more legroom, and a quieter cabin. It's a nice, but not essential, upgrade. We recommend saving your money for a better hotel in Yangshuo.
Business Class is the peak of luxury, comparable to airline first class. You get lounge access, priority boarding, and seats that recline 180 degrees into a full bed. It's a phenomenal experience, but frankly, overkill for a 3-hour daytime trip.
Booking Your Hong Kong to Guilin Bullet Train Tickets as a Foreigner
Booking is straightforward. You can use Trip with any international credit card (like Visa or Mastercard) and a simple English interface to book your tickets easily.. This is the most recommended method for international travelers.
The official "China Railway 12306" app is also a method to book a tickts online. It requires a complex passport verification process that can take several days.
We recommend using a trusted travel partner like us (Asia Odyssey Travel) or reputable third-party sites. All tickets are electronic, you just need your passport (which you used to book the ticket) to enter the station and board the train.
How to Departure from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station
The Hong Kong to Guilin train is special because it is a cross-border journey.
This route uses a simple and efficient "co-location" system, which means you clear both Hong Kong and Mainland China customs and immigration before you even board the train, all within the Hong Kong West Kowloon Station.
First, you must arrive at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station with your passport and train ticket. We strongly recommend arriving at least 45 to 60 minutes before your train is scheduled to leave. Here is the simple step-by-step process for your departure:
- Level B1 (Ticketing Hall): Enter the station with your passport.
- Level B3 (Departure Hall): Follow the signs down to departures.
- Step 1 (HK): Pass through Hong Kong immigration (a quick passport scan).
- Step 2 (Mainland): Walk a few meters to the "Mainland Port Area." Here you will go through the full China entry process: fill out an arrival card (if needed), pass through China immigration (they will check your visa), and put your luggage through a customs X-ray scan.
- Step 3 (Wait): You are now officially "in" Mainland China. You will enter a large, secure waiting hall.
- Level B4 (Platforms): Boarding begins about 15 minutes before departure. You will take an escalator down to your platform.
Arrival at Guilin West (桂林西): What’s Next
Your train will arrive at Guilin West Station (桂林西站), and we need to be clear: this station is not convenient for tourists. It is located far from the city center, the Li River cruise piers, and all major attractions. Do not be alarmed; you have several good options, but you must plan ahead.
Option 1 (To Guilin City / Li River Cruise Pier)
If your hotel is in Guilin city or you are heading directly to the Li River cruise piers (like Mopanshan Pier), your most straightforward option is to take a taxi, which will cost around 40 minutes.
For a budget-friendly alternative, you can take the local Bus 22, but you must be prepared for a 60 to 80-minute ride to reach the city center.
Option 2 (To Yangshuo - Recommended for Most Tourists)
Most visitors want to go directly to Yangshuo, which is the smaller, stunningly beautiful town in the scenic heart of the region. Be careful of the "trap within a trap": Do not take another high-speed train from Guilin West to "Yangshuo Station".
The Yangshuo train station is also located far from the town center, requiring yet another 45-60 minute bus or taxi ride to reach your hotel.
Bus: This involves taking a 50-minute taxi or bus from Guilin West across town to the Guilin South Bus Station, then catching a 1.5-hour coach to Yangshuo. It's slow (2.5-3+ hours), complicated, and not recommended for travelers with luggage.
Taxi or Private Transfer (Easiest): You simply exit Guilin West, hire a taxi or find your pre-booked private driver, and go directly to your hotel in Yangshuo. It takes 75 mins.
You can also use Asia Odyssey Travel’s Guilin tour service. Our local team is right here. We can provide you with safe tour cars, experienced drivers, and the best travel packages.
HK to Guilin Bullet Train Alternative: Transfer at Guangzhou South
For travelers who prioritize convenience upon arrival over a direct route, here is an "insider" alternative. You can take one of the many frequent, 1-hour high-speed trains from Hong Kong to Guangzhou South.
From Guangzhou South, you can easily transfer to one of the 60+ daily trains that go to the much more central Guilin Main Station or Guilin North Station. These stations are located within the city, making your arrival at your hotel much simpler.
Guangzhou to Guilin High Speed Train: Best Way from Guangzhou to Guilin
How to Plan a Hong Kong to Guilin Tour by Train
The train journey from Hong Kong to Guilin takes about 3 hours, making it an easy way to connect these two fascinating destinations. To fully explore both cities, we recommend planning for a 4-6 day trip.
Hong Kong (3–4 Days): Spend about three days enjoying Hong Kong's iconic attractions, like Victoria Peak, the vibrant streets of Mong Kok, and the stunning skyline along Victoria Harbour. Add an extra day to explore Lantau Island, home to the Big Buddha and Tai O Fishing Village, or relax at Disneyland.
Guilin (2–3 Days): In Guilin, plan for two to three days. Start with the breathtaking Li River cruise to Yangshuo, where you'll see karst mountains and serene villages. Explore the Longji Rice Terraces and Guilin's iconic landmarks like Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave. This mix of natural beauty and cultural charm ensures an unforgettable experience!
Here is a Hong Kong to Guilin itinerary you can refer to:
Day 1: Hong Kong to Guilin by Bullet Train
Day 2: Guilin to Yangshuo Tour (Li River Cruise, Chinese Calligraphy or Cooking Class, West Street)
Day 3: Yangshuo Tour (Yangshuo Countryside Cycling, Bamboo Rafting along the Yulong River)
Day 4: Yangshuo to Guilin Departure (Elephant Trunk Hill, Airport Transfers)
China High Speed Train Ride Made Easy with AOT
Let Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) handle your high-speed rail adventures in China! We'll book your tickets, guide you through stations, and provide 24/7 support. Skip the confusion and travel stress-free with us.
Tour Packeges: China High Speed Train Tour Packages
China High Speed Train Cities: Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Hong Kong
Useful Travel Tips: China High Speed Train Guide
Contact us today to start planning your adventure, and let us show you the dynamic beauty and enduring traditions of this extraordinary region.
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