Guilin

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Comprehensive Guide to Public Buses in Guilin, China

Guilin, a picturesque city in southern China known for its stunning karst mountains and rivers, has a well-developed public bus system that is affordable, convenient, and easy to use. Below is a detailed guide to help tourists and new residents navigate the public bus system in Guilin.

1. Categories of Buses in Guilin

Guilinโ€™s public bus system consists of several types of buses, each catering to different needs:

a. Regular City Buses

  • These are the most common buses in Guilin, serving the city center and surrounding areas.
  • They are numbered (e.g., Bus 1, Bus 10) and cover most tourist attractions, residential areas, and commercial districts.

b. Air-Conditioned Buses

  • Many buses in Guilin are equipped with air conditioning, especially useful during the hot and humid summer months.
  • These buses are slightly more expensive than non-air-conditioned ones.

c. Mini Buses

  • Smaller buses that operate on less busy routes or in areas with narrower streets.
  • They are often used for short-distance travel within neighborhoods or to less accessible areas.

d. Tourist Buses

  • Special buses designed for tourists, often labeled with a "ๆธธ" (yรณu) prefix, meaning "tourism."
  • These buses connect major tourist attractions such as Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and the Longji Rice Terraces.
  • Examples: Bus 58 (to Reed Flute Cave) and Bus 99 (to Seven Star Park).

e. Night Buses

  • Limited night bus services are available, but they are not as extensive as daytime routes.
  • These buses typically operate until around 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM.

2. Costs and Fares

The bus fares in Guilin are very affordable, making it an economical option for both residents and visitors.

a. Regular Fares

  • Non-Air-Conditioned Buses: ยฅ1 per ride.
  • Air-Conditioned Buses: ยฅ2 per ride.

b. Tourist Buses

  • Fares for tourist buses may vary depending on the route and distance, typically ranging from ยฅ2 to ยฅ5.

c. Discounts

  • Children under 1.2 meters (about 4 feet) in height ride for free.
  • Seniors and students with valid ID cards may receive discounts or free rides, depending on local policies.

3. Payment Methods

There are several ways to pay for bus rides in Guilin:

a. Cash

  • Cash is accepted on all buses. Prepare exact change (ยฅ1 or ยฅ2 coins or small bills) as drivers do not provide change.

b. Guilin Transportation Card (ๆก‚ๆž—้€šๅก)

  • A rechargeable smart card that can be used for public buses and other forms of transportation.
  • Offers convenience and small discounts on fares.
  • Cards can be purchased and recharged at bus stations, convenience stores, or kiosks.

c. Mobile Payment

  • Most buses in Guilin now accept mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay (ๅพฎไฟกๆ”ฏไป˜) and Alipay (ๆ”ฏไป˜ๅฎ).
  • Simply scan the QR code near the bus entrance to pay. Ensure you have a Chinese bank account linked to your mobile payment app.

4. Schedules and Operating Hours

  • Operating Hours: Most buses run from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM, though some routes may start earlier or end later.
  • Frequency: Buses typically arrive every 5โ€“15 minutes during peak hours and every 15โ€“30 minutes during off-peak hours.
  • Night Buses: Limited service is available after 10:30 PM, but taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi are better options for late-night travel.

5. Routes and Navigation

Guilinโ€™s bus routes are extensive and cover most parts of the city, including major tourist attractions. Hereโ€™s how to navigate the system:

a. Route Maps

  • Bus route maps are available at major bus stops, stations, and online.
  • Use apps like Baidu Maps (็™พๅบฆๅœฐๅ›พ) or Amap (้ซ˜ๅพทๅœฐๅ›พ) for real-time bus schedules and route planning. These apps are available in English and are highly reliable.

b. Key Tourist Routes

  • Bus 1: Connects Guilin Railway Station to Elephant Trunk Hill and other central locations.
  • Bus 58: Goes to Reed Flute Cave.
  • Bus 99: Serves Seven Star Park and other attractions.
  • Bus 100: A loop line that covers many central areas and is useful for general sightseeing.

c. Identifying Stops

  • Bus stops are clearly marked with signs listing the bus numbers and their routes in Chinese. Some stops also include English translations, especially near tourist areas.

6. How to Use the Bus System

Follow these steps to use Guilinโ€™s public buses effectively:

  1. Plan Your Route: Use a map or navigation app to identify the bus number and stop closest to your destination.
  2. Boarding: Enter the bus through the front door. If paying with cash, drop the exact fare into the fare box. If using a transportation card or mobile payment, tap or scan at the reader.
  3. Seating: Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority seats near the front are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
  4. Exiting: Press the stop button near your seat or the door to signal the driver when your stop is approaching. Exit through the rear door.

7. Cultural and Local Tips

  • Be Patient: Buses can get crowded during peak hours (7:00โ€“9:00 AM and 5:00โ€“7:00 PM). Be prepared to stand if necessary.
  • Language Barrier: Most bus drivers and passengers speak only Mandarin or the local dialect. Have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver if needed.
  • Tourist-Friendly: Tourist buses often have announcements in both Chinese and English, but regular buses may only have Chinese announcements.
  • Avoid Rush Hours: If possible, avoid traveling during peak hours to enjoy a more comfortable ride.
  • Respect Local Customs: Offer your seat to elderly passengers or those in need, as this is a common courtesy in China.

8. Considerations for Tourists and New Residents

  • Prepare for Heat: During summer, even air-conditioned buses can feel warm due to the high number of passengers. Carry water and dress appropriately.
  • Explore with Tourist Buses: If youโ€™re visiting Guilinโ€™s attractions, the tourist buses are a convenient and affordable option.
  • Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few Mandarin phrases, such as "ๆˆ‘่ฆๅŽป [destination]" (wว’ yร o qรน [destination], meaning "I want to go to [destination]"), can be helpful.
  • Download Offline Maps: Internet access may be limited in some areas, so having offline maps can be a lifesaver.

9. Emergency and Contact Information

  • Lost Items: If you lose something on a bus, contact the Guilin Public Transportation Company at +86 773 382 2000 or visit their office.
  • Complaints or Inquiries: Call the same number or ask for assistance at major bus stations.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll find Guilinโ€™s public bus system to be an efficient and budget-friendly way to explore the city. Whether youโ€™re a tourist marveling at the natural beauty or a new resident settling in, the buses in Guilin are a reliable mode of transportation.