Guangzhou to Hong Kong by high-speed train
The 48-minute high-speed cross-border train from Guangzhou to Hong Kong — how to book, which stations, immigration process, and tips for foreign visitors.
Route overview
- Under 1 hour city-centre to city-centre
- Cross-border immigration handled at departure station
- Frequent departures throughout the day
Example train options
Services change by date. These examples illustrate the typical pattern—always search your exact travel date for current availability.
Choosing a seat class
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Guangzhou to Hong Kong high-speed train?
The Guangzhou–Hong Kong Express (XRL) from Guangzhou South to Hong Kong West Kowloon takes exactly 48 minutes. It is one of the most efficient cross-border rail links in Asia, running through a dedicated tunnel under the Pearl River Delta.
How much does a Guangzhou to Hong Kong train ticket cost?
Second class tickets cost approximately HKD 218–270 (around USD 28–35) each way. First class runs HKD 320–400 (USD 40–50). Prices vary slightly by departure time. The train is significantly more convenient than the bus and comparable in price.
Do I need a China visa to take the Guangzhou to Hong Kong train?
The Guangzhou to Hong Kong train starts in mainland China, so you need a valid Chinese visa (or visa exemption) to be in Guangzhou in the first place. You do not need a separate Hong Kong visa if your nationality qualifies for Hong Kong visa-on-arrival (most Western nationalities receive 90 days).
How does immigration work on the Guangzhou to Hong Kong train?
Guangzhou South station has a designated XRL departure area where you clear mainland China immigration exit before boarding. On arrival at Hong Kong West Kowloon, you clear Hong Kong immigration entry. The co-location arrangement means all border formalities are done at the stations — there are no stops at the physical border. Allow 30 minutes extra at Guangzhou South for the immigration queue.
Is the Guangzhou to Hong Kong train faster than the bus or ferry?
Yes, significantly. The high-speed train takes 48 minutes city-centre to city-centre. Direct buses from Guangzhou to Hong Kong typically take 3–4 hours depending on traffic and border wait times. Ferries from various Guangzhou-area ports take 60–90 minutes but require transfers. The train is the fastest and most reliable option.
Which Guangzhou station do I depart from for Hong Kong?
The cross-border XRL service departs from Guangzhou South station (广州南站), not Guangzhou East or Guangzhou station. Guangzhou South is a major hub connected to metro lines 2 and 7. Allow at least 60 minutes before your departure time to reach the XRL departure area and complete immigration.
Can I book a Guangzhou to Hong Kong train ticket with a foreign passport?
Yes. Book through ChinaHighSpeedTrain.com with your passport number and an international payment card. Your passport is required at the XRL departure area in Guangzhou South for immigration. Keep it accessible throughout the journey.
What is Hong Kong West Kowloon station like?
Hong Kong West Kowloon (西九龍站) is a modern underground station in central Kowloon, adjacent to the cultural West Kowloon arts district. It is a 1-minute walk from Austin MTR station and well connected by taxi. From West Kowloon, the MTR takes you to Mong Kok in 5 minutes, Tsim Sha Tsui in 10 minutes, and Causeway Bay in about 25 minutes.