Hi there! I’m Alex Chen, an avid traveler who loves independent trips and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. Over the years, I’ve traveled extensively across China and beyond, always looking for ways to explore efficiently on a budget. Guangzhou South Railway Station is one of China’s busiest and most important transportation hubs, making it a key gateway for travelers visiting Guangzhou and other cities. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about navigating this massive station, from buying tickets and transportation options to train choices and nearby accommodations, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Summary

Guangzhou South Railway Station Overview

  • Address: Shibi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou, China
  • Recommended Arrival Time: At least 1 hour before departure
  • Chinese Name: 广州南站
  • Pinyin: Guang Zhou Nan Zhan
  • Station Name on Tickets: 广州南 (Guangzhounan)
  • Train Ticket Booking: Click here to book
Exterior view of Guangzhou South Railway Station

2 Best Ways to Get to Guangzhou South Railway Station from Downtown

During the day, the metro is the best option to reach Guangzhou South Railway Station. It’s affordable, efficient, and has multiple lines connecting to the station. If you’re traveling with a group or have heavy luggage, a taxi or ride-hailing service may be more convenient.

How to Take the Metro from Downtown Guangzhou to Guangzhou South Railway Station

  • Metro Lines: Line 2, Line 7, Line 22
  • Drop-off Station: Guangzhou South Railway Station
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
  • Fare: 5 RMB
  • Travel Time: Around 40 minutes

How to Take a Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service from Downtown to Guangzhou South Railway Station

You can book a ride using Alipay or Didi Chuxing (China’s Uber equivalent).

  • Drop-off Location:
    • West Entrance (If your departure gate is near Gate 25)
    • East Entrance (If your departure gate is near Gate 1)
  • Fare: Around 60 RMB
  • Travel Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Train Ticket Guide for Guangzhou South Railway Station

How to Buy Train Tickets

There are multiple ways to purchase train tickets for Guangzhou South Railway Station, including online booking, ticket counters, and self-service machines. Below are the best options:

  • Online Booking
  • Ticket Counters: Accepts cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and credit cards.
Ticketing and service center at Guangzhou South Railway Station
  • Self-Service Ticket Machines: Supports Alipay and WeChat Pay, but not all machines accept non-Chinese passports. If a machine does not have a “Passport” option, try another one.
Ticket vending machines at Guangzhou South Railway Station
  • Ticket Availability & Purchase Window
    • Advance Booking: Train tickets in China can be purchased up to 15 days in advance, whether online or at the station.
    • Train Operators: All trains in China are government-operated, with no private railway companies.

Which Ticket Should You Choose?

China’s trains are categorized into high-speed trains and regular trains. Your choice depends on budget, travel time, and comfort level.

Train Types

  • High-Speed Trains (G, D, C Trains):
    • Known for efficiency and speed, reaching up to 350 km/h (217 mph).
    • Connects major cities across China.
    • More expensive but provides a smoother experience.
    • Recommended for first-time travelers in China.
  • Regular Trains (K, T, Z Trains):
    • Slower but more budget-friendly.
    • Ideal for those with flexible schedules.
    • Some routes offer overnight sleeper cabins, making long-distance travel more affordable.
High-speed train vs. regular train in China

Seat & Ticket Classes

High-Speed Trains
  • Second-Class: Most affordable and widely chosen option.
  • First-Class: More spacious and comfortable than second-class.
  • Business-Class: The most luxurious option, similar to airline business class. Offers fully reclining seats, free snacks, meals (on select routes), priority boarding, and VIP lounges.
High-speed train seating: second class, first class, and business class
Regular Trains
  • Hard Seat: Cheapest option, mostly used for short trips.
  • Soft Seat: More comfortable and spacious than a hard seat.
  • Hard Sleeper: A bunk bed system with upper, middle, and lower berths. Suitable for overnight or long-distance travel.
  • Soft Sleeper: A 4-bed private compartment, offering better comfort and privacy.
  • Standing Ticket: No assigned seat; passengers must stand throughout the journey. Recommended only if no other tickets are available.
Regular train seating: hard seat, soft seat, hard sleeper, and soft sleeper

Ticket Changes & Refunds

  • Ticket Rescheduling (Change Policy)
    • Can You Change Your Ticket?
      • Yes, most train tickets allow one-time rescheduling.
    • Rescheduling Fees:
      • 48+ hours before departure → Free
      • 24-48 hours before departure → 5% fee
      • Less than 24 hours before departure → 15% fee
      • After train departure → 40% fee
    • How to Reschedule?
      • Online: Log into the booking platform and select the “Reschedule” option.
      • At the Station: Visit the ticket counter with your passport and train ticket.
  • Ticket Cancellation & Refund Policy
    • Can You Cancel Your Ticket?
      • Yes, most train tickets in China are refundable, but fees apply.
    • Refund Fees:
      • 8+ days before departure → Free cancellation
      • 48 hours – 8 days before departure → 5% fee
      • 24-48 hours before departure → 10% fee
      • Less than 24 hours before departure → 20% fee
      • After train departure → No refund
    • How to Cancel?
      • Online: Log into your booking platform and select “Cancel Ticket”.
      • At the Station: Go to the ticket counter with your passport and train ticket.

Train Boarding Guide for Guangzhou South Railway Station

  • Pre-Departure Preparation
    • Required Documents: Bring your passport and any identification used for booking.
    • Do You Need a Printed Ticket?: No, it’s not required. However, you can print one as a souvenir.
    • Recommended Arrival Time: Arrive at the station at least 1 hour before departure.
    • Are Trains Punctual?: Yes, trains in China depart on time with minimal delays. Do not be late.
  • Security Check at the Station
    • Security Screening: All luggage must pass through an X-ray security check before entering the station.
    • Prohibited & Restricted Items:
      • No knives or sharp objects.
      • No hair dye, spray, or insecticide in containers over 150ml.
      • Baby strollers are allowed.
  • Step-by-Step Boarding Process
    • Check Your Ticket Information: Confirm your train number, coach, and seat assignment.
    • Find Your Boarding Gate: Look for your train’s details on the large departure screen in the waiting hall.
    • Wait for Boarding: Listen to announcements and keep an eye on the gate status.
      • Boarding gates open10-15 minutes before departure.
      • Double-check your train number to avoid boarding the wrong train.
    • Ticket & ID Check: Scan your passport and ticket at the boarding gate to enter the platform.
    • Board the Train:
      • Find your coach number displayed outside the train.
      • Locate your seat inside the coach.
      • If you’re short on time, enter through the nearest car and walk to your assigned seat. All train coaches are connected.
Train departure board and check-in gate at Guangzhou South Railway Station

Travel Tips

  • Guangzhou South Railway Station is huge, and boarding gates are far apart. Even after clearing security, it may take 10-20 minutes to walk to your gate. Plan accordingly.
  • If buying tickets at the station, check ticket availability in advance. Arrive at least 1.5 hours before departure to avoid missing your train.
  • Peak Travel Hours:
    • Morning Rush: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
    • Evening Rush: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    • Expect longer travel times to the station during these hours.

3 Best Ways to Get from Guangzhou South Railway Station to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

If you’re traveling to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, the metro is the best option during the day—it’s affordable, convenient, and operates until late at night. If you’re in a group, taking a ride-hailing service is also a great choice, as it can be more cost-effective than the airport shuttle bus.

1. Taking the Metro

  • Metro Lines: Line 2 → Line 3
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
  • Fare: 9 RMB
  • Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

2. Taking the Airport Shuttle Bus

  • Route: Guangzhou South Railway Station → Baiyun International Airport
  • Operating Hours: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Fixed departure times: 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM, 8:30 PM, 10:00 PM)
  • Fare: 45 RMB
  • Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

3. Taking a Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service

  • Pickup Location: Recommended at P5 Parking Lot
  • Fare: Around 130 RMB
  • Travel Time: 1 hour 10 minutes, depending on traffic

Best Ways to Get from Guangzhou South Railway Station to Downtown Guangzhou

Taking the metro is highly recommended, as multiple lines connect Guangzhou South Railway Station to different parts of the city. The travel time is comparable to taking a taxi, making it an efficient and affordable choice.

1. Taking the Metro

  • Metro Lines: Line 2, Line 7, Line 22
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
  • Fare: 5 RMB
  • Travel Time: Around 40 minutes

2. Taking a Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service

  • Pickup Location: Recommended at P5 Parking Lot
  • Fare: Around 60 RMB
  • Travel Time: Around 40 minutes, depending on traffic

If you’re looking for a hotel near Guangzhou South Railway Station, there are several convenient options within walking distance. Here are two highly-rated hotels that provide excellent access to the station and nearby attractions.

  • Vienna Hotel (Guangzhou South Railway Station Branch)
    • Why Stay Here? This hotel is just 800 meters from Guangzhou South Railway Station, making it an easy walk to the station. It’s also within 500 meters of Shibi Metro Station (Line 2 & Line 7), providing easy city access. Additionally, it’s only 3 km from Chimelong Safari Park.
    • Address: 283 Hanxi Avenue West, Aoyuan Yue Times Square, Panyu District, Guangzhou
    • Price: 400 RMB
    • Booking Link: Click here to book
  • Days Hotel (Guangzhou South Railway Station Branch)
    • Why Stay Here? Located just 800 meters from the station, this hotel is an excellent option for travelers who want to be close to major attractions. It’s near Guangzhou Crocodile Park, Chimelong Water Park, Chimelong Paradise, and Dafushan Forest Park.
    • Address: 283 Hanxi Avenue West, Aoyuan Yue Times Square, Building 2, 1st Floor, Panyu District, Guangzhou
    • Price: 500 RMB
    • Booking Link: Click here to book

Guangzhou South Railway Station Guide

Ticket Counter Location

  • Where to Find It? Ticket counters are located on both the east and west sides of the first floor.
  • Services Available: Buying tickets, rescheduling, and refunds.
  • Operating Hours: 24/7.
  • Payment Methods: Cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and credit cards.
  • Required Documents: Passport or other identification used for booking.

Luggage Storage Location

  • Where to Find It? Northwest side of the first floor, near the west entrance.
  • Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
  • Storage Fees:
    • Small items: 15 RMB per day
    • Medium items: 20 RMB per day
    • Large items: 25 RMB per day
  • Maximum Storage Time: No official limit, but you must collect items during business hours.
Left luggage service at Guangzhou South Railway Station

FAQ

Can I stay overnight at Guangzhou South Railway Station?

Yes, you can, but it’s not recommended. While some shops remain open late, Guangzhou South Railway Station is located in the city, so finding a nearby hotel is a better option.

Does Guangzhou South Railway Station have free WiFi?

No, free WiFi is not available at the station.

What should I do if I lose something at the station?

Head to the Lost & Found office and report your lost item. You can also ask station staff for directions to the office.

What languages do the staff at Guangzhou South Railway Station speak?

Most staff members speak Mandarin Chinese. However, since Guangzhou is a major international city, some employees at information desks and service counters can communicate in basic English. Additionally, important signs and announcements are available in English to assist international travelers.

Can I take an earlier train if I missed mine?

No. Train tickets in China are only valid for the specific train and time printed on the ticket. You must board the exact train you booked, and station staff will check your ticket at the gate. If you miss your train, you’ll need to reschedule or buy a new ticket.

Essential Guangzhou Travel Resources