Many travelers visiting China want to see both Guilin’s karst mountains and Zhangjiajie’s Avatar mountains in one trip. The distance between Guilin and Zhangjiajie is about 600 km. Here are the 3 best ways to travel.
Option 1: High-Speed Train (Recommended)
This is the best option for most tourists.
- Route: Guilin North to Zhangjiajie West
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Cost: 350-450 RMB ($50-65)
- Frequency: 3-4 trains per day
Why I recommend it: No airport hassle, comfortable seats, beautiful scenery on the way. Book tickets on Trip.com 3 days in advance.
Tip: Take the morning train (8:30 AM) – you reach Zhangjiajie by 3 PM and can check into your hotel.
Option 2: Direct Bus (Cheapest)
- Route: Guilin Bus Station to Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station
- Duration: 8 to 9 hours
- Cost: 200-250 RMB ($28-35)
Good if you are on a budget, but long and tiring. Buses run only once in the morning (9:00 AM).
Option 3: Flight via Changsha (Fastest)
There is NO direct flight from Guilin to Zhangjiajie.
- Step 1: Guilin (KWL) to Changsha (CSX) – 1.5 hours
- Step 2: Changsha to Zhangjiajie (DYG) – 1 hour layover + 1 hour flight
- Total Time: 5-6 hours with layover
- Total Cost: 700-1000 RMB
Only choose this if you found a cheap deal.
My Recommendation?
For GlimpseTRIP readers: Take the High-Speed Train. It’s the perfect balance of price, comfort and time.
If you haven’t read my detailed guides, check them here:
If you haven’t read my detailed guides, check them here:
- Guilin Travel Guide: 6 Must-See Attractions [blocked] – Link your Guilin post here after publishing
- Top Attractions in Zhangjiajie [blocked] – Link your Zhangjiajie post here after publishing
FAQ
Q: Is there a direct train?
A: Yes, now there are direct high-speed trains since 2022. No need to change.
Q: Which station in Guilin?
A: Guilin North Station (Guilin Bei), not Guilin main station.
Q: Should I book in advance?
A: Yes, especially on weekends. Tickets sell out fast.
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