Guilin, a picturesque city in Guangxi known for its karst mountains and serene rivers, is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. While its natural beauty and cultural heritage are often highlighted, many visitors also wonder about the city’s transportation infrastructure. Specifically, does Guilin have a subway system, and if so, where can you board it? Let’s explore this question in detail.
Guilin is a mid-sized city by Chinese standards, with a population of approximately five million people. Unlike mega cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, Guilin does not have a subway system as of now. Instead, its public transportation primarily relies on buses, taxis, and shared bicycles.
The city’s relatively small size and its focus on preserving the natural environment have limited the need for extensive underground transit systems. However, Guilin's public transportation network is efficient enough to cater to both locals and tourists, making it relatively easy to navigate without a subway.
Guilin’s bus system is extensive, covering most areas of the city and connecting major tourist attractions such as the Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and Seven Star Park. The buses are well-maintained, affordable, and frequent, making them an excellent choice for getting around.
The average fare for a bus ride in Guilin is around ¥2. For tourists, there are also special sightseeing bus lines that take you directly to popular destinations for a slightly higher fare.
Taxis are a convenient way to travel around Guilin, especially for short distances or when public transportation isn’t readily available. They are relatively affordable compared to Western countries, with starting fares ranging from ¥8 to ¥10 depending on the time of day.
For a more modern alternative, you can use ride-hailing apps like Didi. The app offers an English version, making it user-friendly for international travelers. You can select different car options based on your budget and preferences.
Guilin is a bike-friendly city, with many shared bike stations scattered across the urban area. Companies like Mobike and Hellobike operate in the city, allowing users to rent bikes via smartphone apps. This is a fantastic option for exploring Guilin’s scenic streets at your own pace.
Due to its compact size, many of Guilin’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, particularly in the city center. Walking is not only economical but also allows you to soak in the city’s charming atmosphere.
Although Guilin does not currently have a subway system, there have been discussions and feasibility studies about introducing one. As Guilin continues to grow in popularity as a tourist destination and its urban population expands, the need for a more robust public transit system may lead to the construction of a subway in the future.
Cities like Kunming and Nanning, also located in southern China, have successfully implemented subway systems in recent years, suggesting that it’s not out of the question for Guilin to follow suit. However, the environmental considerations and the city’s commitment to preserving its unique landscape could delay such plans.
Guilin has three main train stations: Guilin Station, Guilin North Station, and Guilin West Station.
Although not part of Guilin city proper, Yangshuo is a must-visit destination for many travelers. To get there:
Guilin’s lack of a subway system doesn’t hinder its charm or accessibility. With a little preparation, you can easily explore the city and its surroundings using the available transportation options. Whether you’re navigating the streets by bus, bike, or foot, Guilin offers a seamless travel experience filled with breathtaking scenery and cultural discoveries.
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Author: Guilin Travel
Source: Guilin Travel
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