How to Get to Guilin. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Guilin Airports & Flights

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) is the main airport serving the city and surrounding region. KWL serves numerous domestic routes within China. Popular connections include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi'an.

Direct Flight Options

Generally, direct flights from major global hubs (North America, Europe, Oceania) do not go to Guilin.
Travelers typically fly into a larger Chinese city, like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.
From there, connect via a domestic flight to KWL. This two-leg journey is standard for travelers from other countries.

Airport Services & City Access

KWL offers a typical airport facilities. Find currency exchange services, ATMs, duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges. Wi-Fi may need a Chinese mobile number for registration.

Transfer Options

Airport Shuttle Bus: Regular services connect the airport to Guilin city center (¥25-30).
Taxi/Didi: Taxis outside the terminal. A ride to Guilin city center costs approx. ¥100-150 and takes about 40-60 minutes.
Private Transfer: You can pre-arrange private transfers through your hotel or a tour operator for maximum comfort.

Global Gateway

Connect to major Chinese cities first, then to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL).

Seasonal Pricing

Flight prices change with season and demand. Booking ahead for peak periods gets better rates.

Airport Amenities

KWL has currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, restaurants, plus lounges for travelers.

Air Travel Details

Flight Information

Major Chinese airlines operate flights, including Air China, China Southern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines.
Arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) at least 2-3 hours before an international flight.
For domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. Allow extra time during peak seasons or Chinese national holidays.
No particular exit fees or taxes are typically charged to travelers departing China by air. These costs are usually incorporated into your airfare.

KWL Connections

KWL features some international routes to nearby Asian cities like Hong Kong, Macau, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul.
Airport Shuttle Buses go to the Civil Aviation Building (near Li River Hotel area) and Guilin North Train Station.
Airport Wi-Fi may be available, but it often needs a Chinese mobile number for registration.
A taxi ride to Guilin city center takes about 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Airport Facilities & Services

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services available for foreign currencies at the airport.

ATMs & Shops

ATMs are available for withdrawing RMB. Duty-free shops are also present for last-minute purchases.

Restaurants & Lounges

Various dining options and lounges for waiting travelers prior to their flight.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Guilin is a major hub on China's high-speed rail network. Three main railway stations serve both high-speed and conventional train routes.

Stations & Routes

Guilin North Railway Station (Guilin Bei): The main high-speed rail station. It serves routes to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.
Guilin West Railway Station (Guilin Xi): Also serves high-speed routes, mainly towards Guangzhou and Kunming. It is further from the city center than Guilin North.
Guilin Railway Station (Guilin Zhan): The oldest station, closer to the city center. It mostly caters to conventional (slower) trains, though some high-speed trains also stop here. Bring your passport for ticket booking.

Bus & Self-Driving

Long-distance buses offer connections to nearby towns. Self-driving generally not recommended for overseas travelers.

Bus & Driving Notes

Long-distance buses: Guilin has a number of long-distance bus stations. They deliver connections to nearby cities and towns within Guangxi province and neighboring provinces, like Yangshuo, Longsheng (for the rice terraces), Nanning, and Guangzhou.
Road conditions: Major roads and highways in and around Guilin are generally well-maintained. Rural roads can be narrower and less developed. Traffic can be chaotic, defensive driving is necessary.
Self-driving: Not recommended for tourists from other countries. A valid Chinese driving license is needed to drive legally. International driving permits are not recognized.

Driving Considerations

China's driving rules differ from many countries. Awareness of local driving conditions is important.

Road Rules

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Traffic can be chaotic, especially in urban areas. Drivers often disregard traffic rules.
Pedestrians and cyclists should stay alert. Always use sidewalks where possible.

Booking Trains & Buses

Advance booking often comes for land travel, especially during peak periods.

Booking Tips

Purchase tickets at station ticket counters. Remember to bring your passport for identity verification.
Book on the internet viof Chinese origin train booking apps like 12306.cn, though these often need a Chinese phone number and bank account.
International agents like Trip.com offer more accessible booking for foreign travelers. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Important Travel Notes

Border crossing information: Not directly applicable for Guilin. Guilin is an inland city within China.
Avoid unlicensed "black taxis," especially those soliciting rides at airports or stations, as they may overcharge or be unsafe.
Do not rent scooters or motorcycles without proper Chinese licensing and experience. Safety standards may be lower than you are used to.

Guilin West Railway Station is further from downtown than Guilin North.
Guilin Railway Station is closer to the city center and serves conventional (slower) trains.
Parking may be challenging and expensive in city centers. In Yangshuo countryside, parking is easier.

Sea/River Arrivals

River Transportation

The Li River is a major scenic waterway for internal tourism. The cruise ship journey from Guilin to Yangshuo is a popular experience. These are tourist cruises, not a form of arrival or departure for international travel. They focus on sightseeing.

Cruise Options

Li River Cruise: Offers iconic scenic views. Various boat sizes and classes are available, from basic to deluxe.
Daytime Cruises: Emphasize the karst landscapes and riverside life as you travel between Guilin and Yangshuo.
Night Cruises on Two Rivers and Four Lakes: Within Guilin city at night, demonstrating illuminated pagodas and bridges.

Unique Water Experiences

Beyond large cruises, smaller, more traditional water experiences contribute to the charm.

Local Waterways

Bamboo Rafts (Yulong River, Yangshuo): A tranquil and popular water transport method for tourists.
Often part of cycling tours. Local boatmen guide these traditional rafts; they are not self-operated rentals.
These rafts focus on immersive, close-up views of the river, offering a serene experience away from larger boat traffic.

Immigration Notes

Immigration procedures at seaports are not relevant. Guilin is an inland city, far from any coastline or international ports.

Connections?

Sea/river arrivals do not connect directly to foreign land transportation options in Guilin.

Accessibility

China, including Guilin, generally lags in accessibility infrastructure. Confirm accessible facilities with hotels or tour operators in advance.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Organize for your departure efficiently. Know exit procedures and airport facilities.

Timing & Process

Arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) at least 2-3 hours before an international flight.
For domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Allow extra time during peak seasons or Chinese national holidays, as security lines and check-in queues can be longer.

Airport & Station Facilities

KWL offers standard departure facilities, including check-in counters, security checkpoints, and waiting areas.

Services

There are shops and restaurants for last-minute purchases or meals.
Train stations have waiting areas, shops, and food vendors for departing travelers.
Ensure you have your passport and ticket ready for boarding for a smooth process.

Exit Fees & Taxes

No Exit Fees

No particular exit fees or taxes are typically charged to travelers departing China by air.

Included in Fare

These costs are usually incorporated into your airfare and are not separate charges.

Check Airline

Always verify with your airline or booking agent for specific fare breakdowns or any changes to regulations.

Smooth Departure Tip

Departure procedures include check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and immigration (for international flights). Follow airport signs and staff instructions.

How to Get to Guilin