Guilin to Fenghuang: Train, Bus | Prices & Schedules

There are 2 way(s) to get from Guilin to Fenghuang

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

Train (China Railway)

🚌 Departure from Guilin

📍For train travel, you will typically depart from Guilin North Railway Station (Guilinbei). This is one of the main high-speed rail hubs in Guilin, well-equipped with waiting areas, food vendors, and English signage.

🚇Guilin North Railway Station is easily accessible from downtown Guilin. A taxi ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes and cost around 30-40 CNY. Public buses also serve the station frequently, offering a cheaper alternative.

⏰High-speed trains from Guilin North to Fenghuang operate multiple times throughout the day, typically starting early morning around 7:00 AM until late afternoon around 5:00 PM. Departures are frequent, often every 1-2 hours.

Practical tips

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Book Trains Early

High-speed train tickets, especially on popular routes like those connecting major tourist hubs, can sell out days or even weeks in advance. Always book online as soon as your travel dates are firm to avoid disappointment.

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Verify Your Station

Many Chinese cities have multiple train stations (e.g., Guilin North, Guilin West). Always double-check the specific station on your ticket and plan your transport there to avoid arriving at the wrong one.

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Passport for Booking and Boarding

Your passport is essential for booking train tickets online and for boarding any train in China. Make sure to have it readily available when purchasing and traveling.

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Consider Second Class

For high-speed trains, Second Class offers excellent comfort and value for money. First Class provides slightly more space but isn't always necessary for shorter journeys like this one.

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Download a Translation App

While English is available on booking platforms, navigating stations or bus terminals might require some local communication. A good translation app can be a lifesaver for last-minute queries.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating China's vastness can feel daunting, but getting from Guilin to Fenghuang, two of China's most enchanting destinations, is surprisingly straightforward. Forget about planes for this leg – the distances involved mean rail or road are your best bet. Knowing which mode to pick comes down to balancing speed, comfort, and cost, ensuring you make the most of your precious travel time without any unnecessary detours or stress.

For this particular route, you have two main options. The high-speed train, operated by China Railway, will get you there in about 2 hours for around €21. This is a fantastic option for speed and comfort. Alternatively, a direct bus service is available, taking approximately 5 hours and costing about €14. While slower, it's a budget-friendly choice that offers a different perspective of the Chinese landscape.

Our top recommendation for the Guilin to Fenghuang journey is undeniably the high-speed train. While the bus is cheaper, the time saved and the superior comfort of the train make it the smarter choice, especially since popular trains can sell out days in advance. Remember to book your tickets online well ahead of time using your passport, and always double-check your departure station – China's mega-cities often have multiple train stations, so knowing the correct one for your ticket is key to a smooth journey.

Frequently asked questions — Guilin → Fenghuang

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✨ Why visit Fenghuang?

✓ Stroll along the Tuojiang River on a traditional sampan boat.
✓ Explore the ancient town's stone bridges and historic architecture.
✓ Visit the Former Residence of Shen Congwen, a famous Chinese writer.
✓ Discover the local Miao ethnic culture through performances and crafts.
✓ Ascend to the North Gate Tower for panoramic views of Fenghuang.

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Recommended stay

2 to 3 nights — allows you to fully absorb the town's charm and culture.

☀️ When to visit Fenghuang?

SUBTROPICAL MONSOON CLIMATE

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) — pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds make for ideal exploration.

Jan 😞

Feb 😞

Mar 😐

Apr 😊

May 😊

Jun 😐

Jul 😐

Aug 😐

Sep 😊

Oct 😊

Nov 😐

Dec 😞

What to do in Fenghuang?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE

🏞️

Explore Fenghuang Ancient Town

Wander through the narrow alleyways and admire the stilt houses along the Tuojiang River. This UNESCO candidate site is best visited early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and witness the soft light. A full day pass for the town often includes access to several museums, typically around 20€.

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Tuojiang River Boat Ride

Take a traditional wooden boat ride on the Tuojiang River for iconic views of the stilt houses and ancient bridges from the water. Opt for a ride in the late afternoon to catch the sunset, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Prices for a short ride are usually a few euros.

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Cross Hongqiao Art Bridge

This two-story covered bridge is a landmark, offering excellent river views from its upper level, which often houses a market. Visit in the evening when the bridge and surrounding areas are beautifully lit up. It's free to cross, but market stalls may tempt you.

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Savour Local Xiangxi Cuisine

Dive into the local flavours of Xiangxi cuisine, known for its spicy and sour profiles. Don't miss specialities like blood tofu and pickled dishes. Look for small, family-run eateries away from the main tourist streets for authentic tastes and better value. Expect meals from 5€.

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Visit Former Residence of Shen Congwen

Explore the childhood home of one of China's most renowned modern writers, Shen Congwen. This traditional wooden house provides insight into his life and local architecture. It's often included in the town's entrance ticket, offering a glimpse into literary heritage. Best visited mid-morning.

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Attend a Local Miao Performance

Experience the vibrant culture of the Miao ethnic minority through traditional song and dance performances. Several venues in and around Fenghuang offer evening shows. While touristy, they provide a colourful introduction to local customs. Tickets typically start from 15€.

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Explore Stone Alley & Handicrafts

Wander off the main streets into the quieter stone alleys, where you'll find local artisans selling silver jewellery, tie-dye fabrics, and other unique crafts. This is an excellent spot for souvenirs and to observe traditional craftsmanship. Haggling is expected, especially for larger purchases.

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Visit East Gate Tower

Climb to the top of the East Gate Tower for panoramic views of Fenghuang Ancient Town and the Tuojiang River. This well-preserved tower is part of the original city wall and offers a different perspective on the town's layout. It's usually covered by the main entrance ticket. Go at dusk.

⏱️ How long to visit Fenghuang?

1 to 3 days

For the independent francophone traveler, 2 full days is ideal to experience Fenghuang's charm, allowing time to wander the ancient streets and take a boat ride. If you're pressed for time, a single day can cover the main sights, but it will be rushed. Consider adding a third day for a more relaxed pace and perhaps a hike in the surrounding areas.

Other trips from Guilin

Guilin → Beijing 2h 30min · From 80€ Guilin → Guangzhou 2h 1min · From 14€ Guilin → Hong Kong 1h · From 18€ Guilin → Kunming 1h 30min · From 53€ Guilin → Shenzhen 2h 34min · From 14€ Guilin → Shanghai 2h 30min · From 80€ Guilin → Shenzhen 2h 34min · From 14€ Guilin → Yangshuo 0h 30min · From 4€ Guilin → Zhangjiajie 2h 15min · From 14€

How to get from Guilin to Fenghuang

🗺️ Route & distance: Guilin → Fenghuang