Summary
- Overview of Guangzhou South Railway Station
- Traveling From Downtown Guangzhou to Guangzhou South Railway Station
- Train Ticket Buying Guide for Guangzhou South Railway Station
- Getting From Guangzhou South Railway Station to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
- Reaching Canton Tower From Guangzhou South Railway Station
- Guangzhou South Railway Station Services and Amenities
- FAQ
Overview of Guangzhou South Railway Station
Address: Shibi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou, China
Best Arrival Time: 1 Hour before Train Departure
Chinese Name: 广州南站
Chinese Pinyin: Guang Zhou Nan Zhan
Name on the Train Ticket: Guangzhounan (广州南)
Train Ticket Booking: Click Here to Purchase Tickets
Traveling From the Downtown Guangzhou to Guangzhou South Railway Station
1.Metro
You can reach the station directly on Line 2, with stops at major downtown points of interest including Yuexiu Park and Memorial Hall. It is not only quick but also never affected by the road traffic adding to its punctuality. The station also connects to Foshan Metro Line 2, as well as multiple bus routes from the city of Foshan and other parts of the Pearl River Delta.
2. City Bus
There are Daytime Express routes 301A, 303A and 288A; as well as Night Buses such as Night 20, Night 61 and Night 79 which run after midnight to cater for late-night commuters. Taking these buses from the Metro Terminals throughout Delhi can be a very good option, except during peak office hours where travel time is longer due to road conditions.
3. Taxi
The fare is fairly high compared with local public transport but it's a lot more convenient. Depending on the time of day and traffic, travel time can be much longer. A typical journey from a central location such as Canton Tower takes about 30 minutes in normal traffic, whisking you in comfort directly to the station's departure level.
4. Ride-hailing Services
As well as regular taxis, there are plenty of app-based hailing services (DiDi etc) for more convenience. It provides ride-sharing service between downtown, such as Canton Tower and Pearl New City, and the South Station. It's a practical yet cool ride which offers the future line of smart urban transportation experience at an affordable rate similar to those of regular ride-hailing services.
Train Ticket Guide for Guangzhou South Railway Station
1.Online Ticket Booking
The best way to buy tickets is through authorized digital outlets. China’s national railway operator, China Railway Customer Service Center (12306.cn), manages a user-friendly website and mobile app (in English and Chinese) on which travelers can buy tickets up to 30 days in advance.
First, create an account with your passport or ID number, and search for routes by typing in the departure and arrival stations and dates you want to travel. Once you have chosen your class (Second, First or Business Class), go to e-payment page by Alipay, WeChat Pay or international credit cards.
After your purchase, an e-ticket will be stored in the app and therefor no prints are necessary. For added ease, third-party platforms such as Trip.com or Ctrip also provide ticket booking, frequently with multi-language assistance and customer service round-the-clock.
2. Self-Service Kiosks
For those who don't want to buy train tickets from elsewhere, many self-service ticket machines can also be seen on the concourse of Guangzhou South Railway Station. These are bilingual kiosks that feature information in both Chinese and English as well as clear prompts to walk you through the process. To use them, you scan your passport or enter your ID number, pick a destination and travel date and then choose the train and seat.
Accepted forms of payment are American Express and major credit cards, UnionPay, the mobile payments system Alipay. They are perfect for spontaneous bookings or those whose internet is unavailable before travelling, though they also mean you may have to form a queue at busy moments.
3. Ticket Counters
When you need more assistance or would rather talk to someone in person, make your way to the specialized ticket counters near the entrances of the station. These have multilingual staff, are tailored for international travelers and can help with complicated itineraries, group bookings or special requests.
For a quicker process, make sure you have your passport or ID at the ready, and are able to share where you’re flying to, when you’d like to leave, and any seat preferences. The counters tend to have lengthier waiting times, but save the hassle for first timers or people who aren’t used to digital systems.
Getting From Guangzhou South Railway Station to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
1.Metro
The metro is a cheaper alternative. Take Line 2 first and then you switch to Line 3 North Extension and ride for another four stations in the direction to Airport North/South.
It is about 75 minutes and 9 Yuan, with a operation time of 6:00-23:30. Steer clear between 7:30-9:30 and 17:30-19:30 because of the crowds.
2. Airport Bus
The airport express bus provides a direct service. It takes about 110 minutes from Guangzhou South Bus Station to T1/T2.
You can get there at CNY35. Buses come every 30-60 minutes at fixed times. It's ideal for passengers who don't want to transfer.
3. Taxi
Taxis are great for travelers with a time schedule. This 60-90km route takes about between 45 and 60 minutes, costing anywhere from 120 to 150 yuan including toll. They can be found outside the exit of the railway station and offer door-to-door service (but they suffer from traffic jams).
4. Ride-hailing Services
Ride-hailing services are flexible. Book through apps like Didi; they are comparable in price and take about as long as a taxi.
It provides convenient pick-up points within the station. It's great for groups and anyone traveling with lots of luggage, and with a transparent price forecast.
Reaching Canton Tower From Guangzhou South Railway Station
1.Metro
Take Metro Line 7 from Guangzhou South Station to Hanxi Changlong, change to Line 3 for six stops and you will be at Canton Tower in about forty minutes; the entire journey is just six yuan, with trains coming every few minutes, so under English signs first-time passengers can transfer without difficult.
2. City Bus
One direct bus like the 301A leaves from the rail hub, zips down an arterial road and deposits you a ten minute walk away from the tower in about 80 minutes for just 3 yuan; seating is generous, windows are big and it provides you with several plentiful servings of Guangzhou's streets at street level worth of coin saving.
3. Taxi
Regular air-conditioned taxis queue up outside in the forecourt for the 30-minute, seventeen-kilometre jump to Canton Tower from terminal when traffic is light; meter begins at twelve yuan and usually settles at fifty, but individual comfort and large trunk space can make it one of those rare taxi fares that seem like good value if you're part of a small group with luggage.
4. Ride-hailing Services
Open an app, pin "Canton Tower" and a private car will typically sweep you to the riverside icon in 30-odd minutes for forty-sixty yuan depending on dynamic pricing; electronic payment, real-time tracking and air-conditioning makes for as smooth a cashless journey as you could wish for, bypassing station queues entirely.
Guangzhou South Railway Station Services and Amenities
1.Ticket Counter
Ticket counters at the first floor, west and east sides, are open 24/7 for purchases, changes and refunds. Payment can be made in cash or using Alipay, WeChat Payment or credit cards. Passports or other proof of ID used in making the booking will be required.
2. Baggage Storage
The baggage storage area is on the northwest first floor, opening from 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Small items charges for 15 RMB per day; Medium items charges for 20 RMB per day; Large items charges 25 RMB per day. And there is no maximum storage period limit, but you must collect your bags in business hours.
FAQ
1.Is it possible to sleep at Guangzhou South Railway Station?
Yes, it is possible, but it’s not advised. Although a few stores will be staying open late, as Guangzhou South Railway Station is situated within city limits, it’s best to find a hotel nearby.
2. Is there a free WiFi on board at Guangzhou South Railway Station?
No, there is no free WiFi at the station.
3. How do I report a lost item at the station?
Report your lost property at the Lost & Found office. You can also ask station personnel for the office.
4. What are some of the languages spoken by Guangzhou South Railway Station?
About half the staff speaks Mandarin. Nonetheless, as Guangzhou is an international city, you may find some staff at information desks and service counters who can speak simple English. Also key signs and announcements are in English to help visitors from overs.
5. Can I take an earlier train?
No, tickets in China trains are only usable for the train number and time you bought. You will have to take the train that corresponds to the specific time of admission and your ticket will be checked by staff at the gate. And if you miss your train, you will have to reschedule or purchase a new ticket.
