High-speed rail hub for trains to Shanghai, Tianjin, and other cities.

About Beijing South Railway Station

Beijing South Railway Station (北京南站) is one of Asia's largest and most modern railway stations, serving as the primary terminus for high-speed trains heading south from the capital. The dramatic elliptical building, completed in 2008, handles CRH (China Railway High-speed) services to Shanghai (4.5 hours on the fastest G-trains), Tianjin (30 minutes), Nanjing (3.5 hours), Hangzhou (5 hours), and hundreds of other destinations.

The station is a crucial transit point for travelers connecting between flights at PEK and China's extensive high-speed rail network. The Beijing-Shanghai corridor is one of the busiest and fastest rail routes in the world, with trains departing every few minutes during peak hours and reaching speeds of 350 km/h. The Beijing-Tianjin intercity service is particularly popular for day trips or business travel.

The station complex spans three underground levels connected to Metro Lines 4 and 14, providing seamless transit connections. The surrounding Fengtai district is less touristy but offers authentic local neighborhoods, and the Temple of Heaven — one of Beijing's most important imperial monuments — is just 3 km to the northeast.

Nearby Landmarks

Temple of Heaven Taoranting Park Niujie Mosque Beijing Natural History Museum

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost CNY 140-180 ($20-25)
Time 55-120 minutes

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

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost CNY 120-160 ($17-22)
Time 55-120 minutes

Arrivals level

Train (Airport Express + Lines 2 and 4)

Cost CNY 31
Time 55 minutes
Frequency Every 10 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Airport Express to Dongzhimen. 2. Line 2 to Xuanwumen. 3. Line 4 to Beijing South.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi CNY 140-180 ($20-25) 55-120 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare CNY 120-160 ($17-22) 55-120 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train CNY 31 55 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The Airport Express runs until about 10:30 PM. Beijing South Station itself has trains departing until about 9:00 PM for most destinations, with some late services to Tianjin until 11:00 PM. For late airport arrivals connecting to morning trains, stay near the station — several hotels are within walking distance.

Luggage Tips

Beijing South Railway Station has luggage storage services on the B1 level. Chinese high-speed trains have overhead racks and luggage areas between seats. The metro journey from the airport with luggage during rush hours is very difficult — consider a taxi if you have large bags and a tight connection.

Accessibility

Beijing South Railway Station is fully accessible with elevators, escalators, and wheelchair-accessible ticket counters. CRH trains have wheelchair spaces in designated cars. The metro connections at Beijing South have elevators. Request assistance at the service desk for help navigating the large station.