Introduction
The recent launch of Guangzhou’s intercity rail network in September 2025 has transformed travel between Shantou and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN). The key improvement is the new direct intercity rail link connecting the airport terminals (Baiyun Airport South for T1 and Baiyun Airport North for T2) with Panyu Station, located just next to Guangzhou South Railway Station. This means you can now seamlessly combine a high-speed train (HSR) from Guangzhou South to Shantou Railway Station with a quick intercity train from the airport terminal to Panyu Station, eliminating the need for metro transfers and offering a faster, more comfortable journey.
| Step | Mode of Transport | Duration | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Airport to Panyu Station | Intercity Train | ~30-40 mins | Board at Baiyun Airport South (T1) or Baiyun Airport North (T2) |
| 2. Panyu to Guangzhou South | Walk | ~15 mins | Follow signs between stations |
| 3. Guangzhou South to Shantou | High-speed train | 2.5-3.5 hrs | Check live schedule |
- Use Baiyunjichangnan as the search name for Baiyun Airport South Railway Station (T2 Terminal).
- Use Baiyunjichangbei as the search name for Baiyun Airport Noth Railway Station (T1 Terminal).
- Use Baiyunjichangdong as the search name for Baiyun Airport East Railway Station (T3 Terminal).
Guangzhou Metro & Intercity Rail Map:
- Guangzhou Metro official website (English version): https://cs.gzmtr.com/ckfwEnglish/
Step 1: From Guangzhou Airport to Panyu Station by Intercity Train
Upon arriving at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, follow the signs to the intercity railway station. You can board at either:
- Baiyun Airport South Station – for Terminal 1 to Panyu Station by intercity train
- Baiyun Airport North Station – for Terminal 2 to Panyu Station by intercity train
Understanding Intercity Train Types
- Direct Trains: Fastest option with limited stops
- Express Trains: Faster service with selected stops
- All-Stops Trains: Slowest option, stops at every station
Step 2: Walk from Panyu Station to Guangzhou South Station
After arriving at Panyu Station, it’s a 15-minute walk to Guangzhou South Railway Station (Guangzhounan). Follow the clearly marked signs through the covered walkway connecting the two stations.
Step 3: Take a Train from Guangzhou South to Shantou
From Guangzhou South Railway Station, frequent high-speed trains connect to Shantou Railway Station.
| Route | Daily Trains | Duration | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou South to Shantou | 10 trains | 2.5-3.5 hours | Check schedule |
| Shantou to Guangzhou South | 9 trains | 2.5-3 hours | Check schedule |
How to Buy Tickets
- 12306 Official Platform: 12306 Official Platform: Use the 12306 website: www.12306.cn English site or app to buy tickets in advance. Use the blue fare gates for entry or exit at the station if you purchase your ticket via 12306.
- Trip.com: www.trip.com/trains/china/
- Guangzhou Metro App & Local Cards: Use the “Intercity Ride Code” within the Guangzhou Metro app. You can also use a real-name registered Lingnan Tong or Yang Cheng Tong card. Use the red fare gates for entry or exit at the station if you use any of these methods.
Important Tips
- Allow sufficient time for transfers.
- Check the specific schedule of your intercity train type (Direct, Express, or All-Stops)
- Have your passport ready for ticket checks and security
- Verify you’re going to the correct airport terminal (T1 or T2)
Trusted Online Ticket Agents:
Option 1: Trip.com is an internatioal brand owned by Ctrip Group, China's largest online travel booking platform. Trip.com offers booking service for flight, train, hotel, activities, etc
Option 2: China Highlights is a reliable online agency for China train ticketing. They get positive reviews on TripAdvisor & Trustpilot. Sharon and her team help you buy tickets & plan rail routes even deliver tickets to your hotels with a service fee.
