Guilin

✈️

Air Travel

Sections

1. Main Airport in Guilin

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL)

  • Location: The airport is approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) southwest of Guilin’s city center.
  • Airport Code: KWL
  • Facilities:
    • Two terminals: Terminal 1 (domestic flights) and Terminal 2 (international flights).
    • Amenities include restaurants, duty-free shops, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and VIP lounges.
    • English signage is available, making navigation easier for international travelers.
  • Operating Hours: The airport operates 24/7, but most flights are scheduled between 6:00 AM and midnight.

2. Domestic and International Flight Options

Domestic Flights

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport is well-connected to major cities across China, making it a convenient hub for domestic travel. Popular routes include:

  • Beijing (PEK/PKX): 3–3.5 hours
  • Shanghai (PVG/SHA): 2.5–3 hours
  • Guangzhou (CAN): 1.5 hours
  • Shenzhen (SZX): 1.5 hours
  • Chengdu (CTU): 2 hours
  • Xi’an (XIY): 2.5 hours

International Flights

The airport also offers limited international connections, primarily to nearby Asian countries. Popular international routes include:

  • Bangkok, Thailand (BKK/DMK): 2.5–3 hours
  • Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (KUL): 4 hours
  • Singapore (SIN): 4.5 hours
  • Seoul, South Korea (ICN): 3.5 hours
  • Hong Kong (HKG): 1.5 hours

Note: International flight options may vary seasonally, and some routes may be operated as charter flights.

3. Transportation to and from the Airport

By Taxi

  • Travel Time: 30–40 minutes to the city center.
  • Cost: Approximately 80–120 RMB, depending on traffic and your destination.
  • Tips: Ensure the taxi driver uses the meter. If you don’t speak Chinese, have your destination written in Chinese characters.

By Airport Shuttle Bus

  • Routes:
    • Line 1: Guilin Railway Station (city center) to the airport.
    • Line 2: Guilin North Railway Station to the airport.
  • Travel Time: 40–50 minutes.
  • Cost: 20 RMB per person.
  • Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, depending on the time of day.
  • Tips: Tickets can be purchased at the shuttle bus counter in the arrivals hall or directly from the driver.

By Private Transfer or Ride-Hailing Apps

  • Options: Didi (China’s version of Uber) is widely used and convenient.
  • Cost: Similar to taxis, but prices may vary based on demand.
  • Tips: Download the Didi app and set it to English before your trip.

By Public Bus

  • Routes: Local buses connect the airport to nearby towns, but they are not ideal for tourists due to limited schedules and language barriers.

4. Ticket Costs

Domestic Flights

  • Economy Class: 300–1,000 RMB ($40–$140), depending on the route and booking time.
  • Business Class: 1,500–3,000 RMB ($200–$400).
  • Tips: Book tickets at least 2–4 weeks in advance for the best prices. Use Chinese travel platforms like Ctrip (Trip.com) or Fliggy for competitive rates.

International Flights

  • Economy Class: 1,000–3,000 RMB ($140–$400), depending on the destination and season.
  • Business Class: 5,000–10,000 RMB ($700–$1,400).
  • Tips: Prices are higher during Chinese holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, National Day) and peak tourist seasons (April–October).

5. Check-In Procedures

Domestic Flights

  • Check-In Time: Arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before departure.
  • Process:
    1. Present your passport or Chinese ID and flight ticket (or e-ticket confirmation) at the check-in counter.
    2. Drop off checked luggage and receive your boarding pass.
    3. Proceed through security screening and head to your gate.

International Flights

  • Check-In Time: Arrive at least 2.5–3 hours before departure.
  • Process:
    1. Present your passport, visa (if required), and flight ticket at the check-in counter.
    2. Complete customs and immigration procedures.
    3. Proceed through security screening and head to your gate.

6. Baggage Policies

Domestic Flights

  • Economy Class: 20 kg (44 lbs) of checked luggage and 1 carry-on item (5–7 kg).
  • Business Class: 30 kg (66 lbs) of checked luggage and 1 carry-on item (5–7 kg).
  • Tips: Excess baggage fees are charged per kilogram and vary by airline.

International Flights

  • Economy Class: 20–30 kg (44–66 lbs) of checked luggage, depending on the airline.
  • Carry-On: 1 item (5–7 kg).
  • Tips: Check your airline’s specific baggage policy, as it may differ for international routes.

7. Local Considerations and Tips

Language

  • English is not widely spoken in Guilin, including at the airport. Download a translation app like Google Translate or Pleco to assist with communication.
  • Most airport staff can understand basic English, but having your destination written in Chinese characters is helpful.

Currency

  • The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). Currency exchange services are available at the airport, but rates may not be favorable. It’s better to withdraw cash from ATMs using an international debit or credit card.

Cultural Nuances

  • Be patient during security checks, as procedures may take longer than in some other countries.
  • Chinese airports are strict about prohibited items in carry-on luggage, including liquids over 100 ml and certain electronics. Check your bags carefully before heading to the airport.

Peak Travel Times

  • Avoid traveling during major Chinese holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year in January/February, National Day in early October) as flights and transportation options will be crowded, and prices will be higher.

Health and Safety

  • Masks are commonly worn in public spaces, including airports, especially during flu season or in response to air quality concerns.
  • Temperature checks and health QR codes may still be in use for domestic travel, depending on current regulations.

8. Additional Tips for Travelers

  • Booking Flights: Use Chinese travel platforms like Trip.com or Fliggy for better deals on domestic flights. International platforms like Expedia or Skyscanner are also reliable.
  • Airport Food: Dining options at Guilin Airport are limited, so consider eating before arriving or bringing snacks.
  • Transportation to Scenic Areas: If you’re heading directly to popular tourist spots like Yangshuo, consider arranging a private transfer from the airport for convenience.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for air travel to and from Guilin, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Safe travels!