Guilin and Zhangjiajie stand out as two of the most breathtaking destinations in China, each boasting stunning natural landscapes. For nature enthusiasts planning a 5 to 7-day trip in China, a perfect itinerary could involve visiting both of these locations. Situated in South China, they are roughly 600 km (400 miles) apart.
Currently, there are no direct flights connecting Guilin and Zhangjiajie. The recommended mode of transportation is either a high-speed bullet train or a private transfer, with the journey lasting approximately 8 hours.
Traveling from Guilin to Zhangjiajie by Train
There is a bullet train departing daily from Guilin Railway Station at 14:38, arriving at Zhangjiajie West Railway Station at 22:14. The train journey is 7 hours and 36 minutes, and the ticket costs approximately USD 50 per person.
The train will stop at Fenghuang Ancient Town at 21:03. Thus, if you're interested in discovering one of the most beautiful towns in China, you can take a 6.5-hour bullet train from Guilin to Fenghuang, stay one or two nights there, and then take another 1.5-hour bullet train to Zhangjiajie.
A suggested Zhangjiajie, Fenghuang, and Guilin itinerary for your reference:
- Day 1: Zhangjiajie arrival
- Day 2: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- Day 3: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (Glass Bridge), Yellow Dragon Cave
- Day 4: Tianmen Mountain, transfer to Fenghuang Ancient Town (3 hours), enjoy breathtaking night views in Fenghuang
- Day 5: Discover the ancient town, transfer from Fenghuang to Guilin (5 hours)
- Day 6: Longji Terraced Fields day trip
- Day 7: Li River cruise to Yangshuo, enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the countryside
- Day 8: Yangshuo, Guilin departure
Suggested reading: Plan a Trip to Guilin and Zhangjiajie
Have you ever heard of Changsha (the hometown of Chairman Mao)? Besides the war heritages, Changsha is also famous for various local snacks. Many young Chinese travel there just for food. If this interests you, you can take the train from Guilin to Changsha, stay one or two nights there, and then take a bullet train to Zhangjiajie. It takes 3-4 hours from Guilin to Changsha, with more than 10 departures available each day.
From Changsha to Zhangjiajie, it takes 2-3 hours. We can also transfer you directly to Zhangjiajie via a private car after touring Changsha. The driving time is around 4 hours with door-to-door service.
Suggested reading: How to Plan a Trip to Changsha and Zhangjiajie
Let's Hep you Planning Your Zhangjiajie and Guilin Tour
See the best of Zhangjiajie with us.We can take all the hassle of researching, comparing, and booking away, and turn your ideas into a unique tour itinerary. Just tell us your ideas and we can create a trip for you.
We recommend our customizable China Natural Wonders Discovery: 14 days touring Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guilin, and Zhangjiajie. We can change the days and destinations, or any arrangements for you according to your requirements.
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