Nanjing South Railway Station is one of the largest high-speed rail stations in Asia, with bullet trains to Shanghai (65 min), Beijing (3.5 hrs), Hangzhou, and throughout China.

About Nanjing South Railway Station

Nanjing South Railway Station is one of China's largest and most modern high-speed rail stations, serving as a critical hub on the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway. The massive station handles over 400 trains daily, connecting Nanjing to Shanghai (1 hour 10 minutes), Beijing (3.5 hours), Hangzhou (1.5 hours), and dozens of other Chinese cities.

The station complex itself is an impressive piece of modern Chinese architecture, designed to evoke traditional Nanjing motifs. With four levels, extensive commercial facilities, and clear bilingual signage, it serves as a model for China's high-speed rail network. The underground levels connect directly to the metro system.

For travelers transiting through Nanjing, the South Station area has developed rapidly with hotels, restaurants, and a large commercial district nearby. The station is well-positioned between the airport and city center, making it an ideal transfer point whether you're heading into Nanjing or connecting to another Chinese city via the extensive bullet train network.

Nearby Landmarks

Nanjing South Station commercial area Yuhua District Niushoushan Cultural Park

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $5-8 (35-55 CNY)
Time 15-25 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Train (Metro Line S1)

Cost $1 (4 CNY)
Time 20 minutes
Frequency Every 8-12 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Take Metro Line S1 from the airport directly to Nanjing South Railway Station. No transfer needed, one of the most convenient airport-to-rail connections in China.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $5-8 (35-55 CNY) 15-25 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Train $1 (4 CNY) 20 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Metro Line S1 runs until about 10:30 PM. After that, taxis from the airport to the South Station cost approximately ¥40-50 (15 min drive). Some high-speed trains depart very early in the morning — if you have a pre-6:00 AM departure, staying at a hotel near the station is advisable.

Luggage Tips

The metro connection is luggage-friendly with elevators at both airport and South Station. The South Station has luggage storage services near the main waiting hall. Porters are available for a small fee. Most travelers manage fine with rolling suitcases on the metro for this short journey.

Accessibility

Both the airport metro station and Nanjing South Railway Station are fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, tactile paving, and accessible toilets. The high-speed rail station has dedicated wheelchair boarding areas and assistance staff. This is one of China's most accessible transit connections.