How to Get to Guilin from Shenzhen

Introduction

Guilin, located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is famous for its stunning karst mountain landscapes and the Li River. As one of China’s top tourist destinations, getting to Guilin from Shenzhen is convenient with multiple transportation options available.

The options above differ mainly in how much time you want to spend in transit. Flights win on speed, rail wins on comfort and reliability, and the long-distance coach wins on frequency to smaller towns.

Transportation Options Overview

• By Plane: The fastest option, with flight duration of about 1.5 hours
• By High-Speed Train: Comfortable and popular, taking approximately 3-4 hours
• By Bus: Economical choice

Book ahead whenever your dates are fixed. Popular departures sell out during public holidays and the summer peak, and the flexible fares disappear first.

By Plane

Flying is the quickest way to travel between Shenzhen and Guilin.

• Airports: Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL)
• Flight Duration: About 1.5 hours
• Airlines: China Eastern, China Southern, and Shenzhen Airlines operate frequent flights
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 300-1200, depending on season
• Airport Transfer: From SZX airport, take metro Line 11 or airport shuttle bus to the city center.

Build the journey around the whole door-to-door time, not the headline duration. Airport check-in, security and the transfer into town often add more than the flight itself; rail stations usually sit closer to the centre.

By High-Speed Train

High-speed train is the most popular option between Shenzhen and Guilin.

• Stations: Shenzhen North Railway Station (Shenzhenbei) to Guilin West Railway Station (Guilinxi)
• Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 250-450
• Seat Classes: Second class, first class, and business class

Arrive with margin. If a connection, a ticket collection or an onward booking depends on your arrival time, an extra hour of buffer is cheap insurance.

By Bus

For budget-conscious travelers.

• Travel Time: Approximately 6-8 hours
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 100-200

Recommendation

• For Speed: Take a flight for the quickest journey
• For Popular Choice: Take the high-speed train, which is the most convenient option
• For Budget: Take a bus for the cheapest option

Tips for Travelers

• Booking: Book tickets 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons
• Platforms: For trains, use the official 12306.cn website or app. For flights, use Ctrip, Trip.com, or official airline websites
• Season: The best time to visit Guilin is April-October

Note: Schedules and prices are subject to change. Please verify current information on official booking platforms before traveling.

Practical Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Which option is best overall?

Rail for most routes – it combines predictable timing with city-centre stations. Flying wins where the distance is long.

How early should I book?

As soon as your dates are fixed for the peak season; a few days is normally enough at quieter times.

Are there extra formalities for this route?

Some destinations require additional travel documentation arranged in advance – check the entry requirements for your nationality before booking.

Quick Checklist

• Compare door-to-door time, not just the headline
• Book early for public holidays
• Confirm which station or terminal you arrive at
• Keep an hour of buffer for connections

Last Updated: July 2026