Nanning Transportation

Facing the South China Sea, Guangxi is China's only provincial-level administrative district bordering ASEAN countries both on land and at sea. Nanning, the capital city of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is now playing an important role in connecting China with Southeast Asia, is the political, economic and cultural center of the region. Located in the southwest of Guangxi, Nanning is located in the subtropical zone and south of the Tropic of Cancer. The junction of South China, Southwest China and Southeast Asia Economic Circle is the intersection of Pan-Beibu Gulf Economic Cooperation, Greater Mekong Sub-regional Cooperation and Pan-Pearl River Delta Cooperation. Bordering Vietnam, this city borders Guangzhou, is close to Hong Kong and Macau, and faces Southeast Asia. Nanning has a developed solid transportation Internet including airway, railway, highway and waterway.

Nanning (南宁市), the capital city of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (广西壮族自治区), is an important transportation hub in southern China and a gateway city connecting China with ASEAN countries. With a complete transportation network combining aviation, high-speed railway, highways, urban metro, buses, and river transportation, Nanning provides convenient travel conditions for city sightseeing, cultural exploration, ecological tourism, family vacations, cycling, motorcycle trips, and long-distance self-driving tours.

The city’s transportation system is mainly divided into six tourism transportation areas: the central urban area, Wuxiang New Area, Jiangnan Airport Area, Wuming Mountain Area, Shanglin and Mashan Ecological Area, and Hengzhou Rural Tourism Area. Different regions have different transportation characteristics according to their landscapes and tourism resources.

The central urban area including Qingxiu District, Xingning District, and Xixiangtang District has the most complete public transportation system, with metro lines, public buses, shared electric bicycles, and taxis covering major attractions such as Qingxiu Mountain, Three Streets and Two Alleys, Nanhu Lake, museums, and food streets.

Wuxiang New Area has modern roads, spacious urban planning, and convenient parking facilities. It is suitable for self-driving visitors visiting Hai Si Shou Gang, Nanning Garden Expo Park, and riverside night tourism areas.

Jiangnan and Wuxu Airport Area is the main aviation gateway of Nanning. It connects Nanning Wuxu International Airport with downtown areas and also provides convenient access to Yangmei Ancient Town and southern countryside attractions.

Wuming District and the northern mountain areas are the gateway to Daming Mountain and Yiling Cave. These areas rely mainly on highways, tourist buses, and private vehicles. Mountain roads are scenic but require careful driving during rainy seasons.

Shanglin, Mashan, Binyang, and Hengzhou mainly depend on highways and rural roads. These regions are ideal for self-driving, photography, ecological tourism, cycling, and countryside exploration.

How to Get to Nanning

By Air: Air Transportation｜Nanning Wuxu International Airport

Nanning Wuxu International Airport (南宁吴圩国际机场) is the main aviation gateway of Guangxi and an important international transportation connection point between China and ASEAN countries.

The airport operates domestic routes connecting major Chinese cities and international routes linking Southeast Asia. It is commonly used by international travelers entering Guangxi for tours to Nanning, Guilin, Beihai, Detian Waterfall, and border tourism destinations.

Visitors can reach downtown Nanning through airport railway connections, airport buses, taxis, or online ride-hailing services. Travelers continuing to urban attractions can easily transfer to metro stations or railway hubs.

Wuxu International Airport (NNG) is located in Wuxu Town, about 19 miles (31 kilometers) southwest from the center of Nanning City, about 40-50 minutes' driving. As of January 2019, Nanning Wuxu International Airport has two terminals, namely, T1 and T2 with 214,800 square meters in total. There is a runway with the length of 3,200 meters and 50 gate positions excluding T1). Wuxu International Airport has 173 domestic and international routes and 107 navigation cities. Therefore, it is very convenient to get to Nanning by air from the main cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Chengdu and Shenzhen.

By Train: Railway Transportation｜Nanning Railway Network

Nanning has four major railway stations serving different travel needs.

Nanning East Railway Station

Nanning East Railway Station (南宁东站) is the main high-speed railway hub. It connects Nanning with major cities including Guangzhou, Kunming, Guiyang, Changsha, and other destinations.

The station is connected with Metro Line 1, making it convenient for visitors heading to Qingxiu Mountain, ASEAN Business District, Wuxiang New Area, and downtown hotels.

Nanning Railway Station

Nanning Railway Station (南宁站) is located near the traditional city center. It is the best choice for travelers visiting:

• Three Streets and Two Alleys
• Zhongshan Road Food Street
• Chaoyang Commercial Area
• Old city cultural attractions

The station is suitable for short city tours and food-focused trips.

Nanning West and North Railway Stations

Nanning West Railway Station and Nanning North Railway Station mainly serve western and northern areas of Nanning, including Wuming District and surrounding mountain tourism areas.

There are four railway stations in  Nanning, namely, Nanning Railway Station, Nanning East Railway Station, Nanning West Railway Station and Nanning South Railway Station. Nanning East Railway Station is located in Nanning City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. It is a passenger station under the jurisdiction of China Railway Nanning Bureau Group Co., Ltd. It is the largest comprehensive railway transportation hub in Southwest China (as of October 2016). It is a large-scale comprehensive transportation hub that integrates high-speed rail, general speed, subway, public transportation and long-distance passenger transport. What's more, Nanning North Railway Station is expected to put into use in 2022.

Highway and Self-driving Transportation

Nanning has developed a complete highway network connecting Guangxi’s major cities and neighboring provinces.

Important highways include:

• G75 Lanhai Expressway
• G80 Guangkun Expressway
• G72 Quannan Expressway

The highway system allows convenient access to Beihai, Qinzhou, Fangchenggang, Chongzuo, Guilin, and ecological destinations in northern Guangxi.

Self-driving is the best transportation choice for Daming Mountain, Shanglin Sanli Yangdu, Mashan ecological areas, Yangmei Ancient Town, and Hengzhou countryside tourism.

Mountain areas have beautiful scenery but include curves and elevation changes. Drivers should avoid night driving during rainy seasons.

Long-distance Bus

Long-distance bus is a common transport for passengers to choose in this city because of the well-developed highways. There are five main bus stations in Nanning City, namely, Langdong Bus Station, Jiangnan Bus Station, Anji Bus Station, Xixiangtang Bus Station and Jinqiao Bus Station. It is very convenient to get to cities and counties within Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. In addition, visitors can get to the major cities in China, including Guilin, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Beijing, Guangzhou. Meanwhile, it is possible to take a bus to Vietnam. Langdong Bus Station has buses to Vietnam.

By Water

Nanning Port is located in the west of southwestern Guangxi, south of the Tropic of Cancer, at 107°45'~108°51' east longitude and 22°12'~23°32' north latitude. Nanning Port Niuwan Work Area is about 30 kilometers away from Nanning City, adjacent to Wuxiang New Area, Xianhu Development Zone and Wuhe University Town. The total investment of the operation area is 1.029 billion yuan, covering an area of ​​822 mu, the total length of the coastline is 1,142 meters, and 11 berths of 3,000-ton berths are constructed. It is very convenient to get to Longjin Port, Baise, Guigang, Wuzhou, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and other places.

Urban Transportation in Nanning

Metro System

Nanning Metro is the most convenient way to explore the city center. The metro network connects major tourism areas including Qingxiu Mountain, railway stations, Three Streets and Two Alleys, Nanhu Lake, and Wuxiang New Area.

For visitors staying in downtown hotels, metro transportation can cover most sightseeing routes and reduce traffic congestion during holidays.

Bus Transportation

The city bus network covers urban districts, suburban areas, and nearby counties. It is suitable for budget travelers and visitors traveling to attractions without direct metro connections.

Shared Electric Bicycle Travel

Shared electric bicycles are popular for short-distance sightseeing. They are especially suitable for exploring old city streets, riverside roads, food districts, and cultural neighborhoods.

Visitors should wear helmets, obey traffic rules, and avoid restricted roads.

How to Get Around Nanning

By Bus

When you want to get around Nanning, buses are your primary choice. Most of the buses in the city start around 6:00 am and end at 10:30 pm. It is very convenient to take a bus to get around the downtown of Nanning.

By Subway

As of December 2017, there are two Nanning rail transit lines, namely, Nanning Rail Transit Line 1 and Nanning Rail Transit Line 2. The total length of the mileage is 53.1 kilometers, with a total of 43 stations, which passes through Nanning East Railway Station, Anji Bus Station, Nanning Railway Station. In addition, Lines 3, 4 and 5, which are under construction now, will form a convenient subway system in Nanning City.

By Taxi

Taxi travel has greatly facilitated our daily life. The image of a taxi also represents the external image of a city. For tourists, it is very convenient to take a taxi to get around Nanning City.

By Sharing Bike

It is the best choice to ride a bike around the city to appreciate the scenery. There are many dockless bikes on the streets of Nanning. To download bike sharing apps and finish the ID verification procedure, you can use these bikes. Usually CNY 0.5 - 1 for every 30 minutes.

Transportation Guide to Major Nanning Attractions

Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area

Qingxiu Mountain (青秀山) is the most famous urban scenic area in Nanning.

Visitors can reach the attraction by metro, bus, taxi, or private vehicle. The scenic area is large, and internal sightseeing transportation is recommended for elderly travelers and families.

The best transportation combination is metro plus walking, especially during weekends and holidays when parking areas become crowded.

Three Streets and Two Alleys Historical Block

Three Streets and Two Alleys (三街两巷) is located in the old city center.

The most convenient transportation method is metro or walking from nearby railway stations. Because surrounding streets are narrow and parking spaces are limited, driving directly into the area is not recommended.

Visitors can combine this area with Zhongshan Road Food Street for an evening cultural and food tour.

Yangmei Ancient Town and Liangfengjiang Area

Yangmei Ancient Town (扬美古镇) is located southwest of downtown Nanning.

The best travel methods are private vehicles, chartered transportation, or tourist buses. The route passes through countryside landscapes and is suitable for photography and slow travel.

Cycling and motorcycle travelers can enjoy riverside scenery along the way.

Daming Mountain Scenic Area

Daming Mountain (大明山) is one of the most popular mountain destinations around Nanning.

Public transportation mainly depends on tourist buses from urban transportation hubs. Self-driving is more flexible and suitable for families and photographers.

Private vehicles usually stop at designated parking areas, and visitors continue with scenic transportation into the mountain area.

Summer is the best season for mountain hiking and escaping city heat.

Shanglin and Mashan Ecological Tourism Areas

Sanli Yangdu (三里洋渡), Dalong Lake (大龙湖), and Nongla Scenic Area (弄拉景区) are mainly suitable for self-driving travelers.

Public transportation is available but less frequent. Visitors planning multi-day ecological tours are recommended to use private vehicles or organized tours.

The mountain roads are scenic and suitable for motorcycle tourism, but careful driving is required.

Wuxiang New Area and Hai Si Shou Gang

Wuxiang New Area has wide roads and convenient parking.

Visitors can easily reach Hai Si Shou Gang, Nanning Garden Expo Park, and Wuxiang cultural tourism areas.

This area is especially suitable for evening sightseeing, photography, and family travel.

Nanning Self-driving, Cycling and Motorcycle Travel Guide

Self-driving Travel Routes

Nanning City Riverside Leisure Route

A classic urban driving route connects Nanning Bridge, Qinghuan Road, Lichun Avenue, Tingzi Wharf, and Three Streets and Two Alleys.

This route combines river scenery, city landscapes, and cultural attractions, making it suitable for families and first-time visitors.

Wuming Mountain Culture Route

The recommended route is:

Nanning → Yiling Cave → Wuming Old Town → Daming Mountain

This route combines Zhuang culture, caves, forests, and mountain scenery.

Northern Guangxi Ecological Tourism Route

The recommended route is:

Nanning → Shanglin → Sanli Yangdu → Dalong Lake → Mashan Nongla

It is suitable for nature lovers, photographers, and long-distance travelers.

Hengzhou Jasmine Countryside Route

The recommended route is:

Nanning → Hengzhou Jasmine Area → Riverside countryside roads

This route is suitable for flower photography and rural tourism.

Cycling Travel Guide

Qingxiu Riverside Cycling Route

Nanning has excellent riverside cycling conditions, especially along the Yongjiang River.

The Qingxiu Riverside route is suitable for city scenery, green landscapes, and photography.

Nanhu Lake Urban Cycling Route

The Nanhu Lake cycling route combines lake views, parks, and night scenery, making it suitable for relaxed urban cycling.

Yangmei Ancient Town Countryside Cycling Route

This route is suitable for travelers who enjoy villages, rivers, traditional architecture, and countryside landscapes.

Cyclists should avoid midday heat in summer and prepare water, sunscreen, and repair tools.

Motorcycle Travel Guide

Wuming Mountain Motorcycle Route

Recommended route:

Nanning → Yiling Cave → Daming Mountain Area

This route combines mountain roads, countryside scenery, and cultural attractions.

Northern Guangxi Ecological Route

Recommended route:

Nanning → Shanglin → Mashan → Karst countryside

It is suitable for motorcycle travelers who enjoy natural landscapes.

Coastal Connection Route

Recommended route:

Nanning → Qinzhou → Fangchenggang → Beihai

This route connects Guangxi’s inland city with coastal tourism destinations.

Motorcycle travelers should follow local traffic regulations. Mountain roads require slow driving during rainy weather.

Nanning Tourism Transportation Tips

Visitors should choose transportation according to destination type.

For downtown sightseeing, metro and shared electric bicycles are the most convenient choices.

For mountain areas, rural attractions, and county destinations, self-driving or private transfers are recommended.

During public holidays, areas around Qingxiu Mountain, Three Streets and Two Alleys, and Zhongshan Road may experience congestion. Public transportation is usually faster.

During the rainy season, mountain roads around Daming Mountain, Shanglin, and Mashan may become slippery. Avoid driving at night.

International study groups and large tour groups are recommended to arrange professional vehicles and bilingual drivers in advance.

Transportation Methods of Major Nanning Tourism Areas (Chinese-English Comparison)