Since Hong Kong is not in mainland China, traveling between Hong Kong and Guangzhou or any city in mainland China can seem tricky. Actually, it is not difficult. Below, we explain step by step how to travel from Hong Kong to Guangzhou by high-speed train.
Travel from Hong Kong to Guangzhou by high-speed train – step by step
If you want to get a train from Hong Kong to mainland China, one of the best options is to get a high-speed train from Hong Kong to Guangzhou. One of the perks is that it is cost-effective considering the short travel time – 47 minutes to about two hours.
Most trains operating on the Hong Kong-Guanghzou route are high-speed trains, D and G trains. They depart every 7 to 60 minutes.
It is very easy to book trains between mainland China and Hong Kong. If you don’t speak Chinese, you can use Trip.com to book your trip online.
Step 1: Select departure and arrival train stations
Step 2: Select the departure date and return date (if you want to book a return ticket)
Step 3: Choose the most suitable train from the train list and confirm the desired seat class
Step 4: Enter passenger and contact information
Step 5: Choose payment method
Step 6: Make payment and receive confirmation
How much does a train ticket from Hong Kong to Guangzhou cost?
The price of a Hong Kong-Guanzghou train depends on many factors. You have to consider:
- ticket type: adult, child, discounted
- ticket class: second class, first class, business class, and sleeper
- departure and arrival stations (for most cases, it’s Hong Kong West Kowloon-Guangzhou South or Guangzhou East Railway Station).
You can book Hong Kong to Guangzhou train tickets from about:
- HKD 29 (second class)
- HKD 60 (first class)
- HKD 83 (business class).
Mainland China and Hong Kong Train Ticket Pick-up
It is worth noting that China Railway and Hong Kong cross-boundary trains have implemented electronic tickets. Therefore, paper tickets, whether adult or child, are not required.
When entering or exiting the station, travelers must use different channels depending on the ID document provided during the ticket booking process.
- If you booked your ticket using a mainland Chinese ID card, you can conveniently swipe your ID card at automated gates.
- If your ticket was booked with any other form of identification, such as a passport, various travel permits for residents of Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, or a PRC Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card, you should proceed to the manned channel for entry and exit.
Problems with China Railway and Hong Kong cross-boundary train
In case you encounter any problems, refer to your ticket pick-up number, which is available on your train ticket booking details page, and present it to the station staff for assistance.
Can I take the train if I lose my ID document?
In case of losing an ID card, holders of mainland China ID cards should go to a police office near a station to get a temporary ID card by presenting an alternative ID. Then, they can board the train with the temporary ID.
If you are not a holder of a mainland China ID card, ask for a refund at the stations immediately since you cannot board the train.
Preparing for your high-speed train journey from Hong Kong. When should you arrive at the station for your Hong Kong-mainland China train?
If you plan to take the Hong Kong-mainland China train, you should arrive at the station at least 2 hours before departure to complete all pre-boarding procedures, which can take 30-45 minutes or more during peak travel times like weekends, holidays, or summer vacations.
Traveling from Hong Kong to mainland China step-by-step
1. Real-name Authentication and Ticket Check-in when entering the station
Start your journey at the B1 floor ticket hall at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, where you’ll complete the real-name verification and check in for your train. It can be done at either the self-service gates or with the help of staff at the counters.
2. Security screening
Complete luggage and security checks as per guidelines.
3. Customs and Immigration Clearance
Go to the departure hall on the B3 floor to complete the immigration procedures for both Hong Kong and mainland China. Get your necessary travel documents ready.
4. Locate your train by checking the electronic screen
Find your platform on the electronic screens at the station.
5. Boarding the train
Proceed to the ticket gate for the train located on the B3 level. Enter the gate and board the train with your identification. The gate typically opens 15 minutes before departure and closes 5 minutes before departure. Be sure to monitor the real-time information displays for updates regarding your gate status.
Find the carriage and seat number according to the ticket information.
6. Arrival at Mainland China Stations
After disembarking the train, scan the ID document used to book a ticket to exit the gate.
What if I need to change trains on the Hong Kong-mainland China route?
If you need to transfer, make sure to pick up tickets for all parts of your trip before the departure of your first train.
- In case you have a long transfer duration, ask the staff for the way to the waiting area for your connecting train after alighting. Sometimes, you have to exit and re-enter the station to transfer.
- If you have a short transfer duration, upon arriving at the transfer station, ask the staff on the platform how to get to the platform for your connecting train.
Accidents happen, and you may not make it to your connecting train. In this case, you can actually change your ticket when transferring for another train departing before midnight of the same day free of charge,
If you can’t change your ticket, go to a station ticket window and ask for a refund. Please note that you may be charged an additional fee for that.
What about the luggage on the Hong Kong high-speed rail?
The maximum dimension is 130cm (length + width + height). Moreover, the maximum weight limit for luggage is 20 kilograms for adults.
Do I need a visa to travel from Hong Kong to Guangzhou?
Some Hong Kong to Guangzhou travelers need a valid passport and a Chinese visa. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for a set period, like 15 or 30 days, so make sure to check relevant entry policies.
Did you book your Hong Kong-Guangzhou train ticket on Trip.com? We wish you safe travels!