How to Get to Xiamen Train Station

How to Get to Xiamen Train Station: A Traveler’s Guide

Xiamen is a popular coastal city in Fujian province, known for its mild climate, colonial-era architecture on Gulangyu Island, and vibrant seafood scene. Whether you are arriving by high-speed rail or just passing through, knowing how to get to Xiamen Train Station efficiently can save you time and hassle. This guide covers the main train stations in Xiamen and the best ways to reach them from the airport, city center, and other key points.

Which Train Station in Xiamen?

Xiamen has two main railway stations for high-speed and conventional trains:

• Xiamen Railway Station (厦门站) – Located in the heart of the city, near the downtown area and the port. This station primarily serves routes within Fujian province and some interprovincial high-speed services.
• Xiamen North Railway Station (厦门北站) – Situated in Jimei District, about 20–25 km north of the city center. Most long-distance high-speed trains, including the Shenzhen–Zhengzhou high-speed train, stop here. It is a major hub for cross-province travel.

Most international travelers will arrive at or depart from Xiamen North Station when taking the Shenzhen–Zhengzhou high-speed route.

Getting to Xiamen North Station from the Airport

Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) is approximately 20–30 minutes by taxi to Xiamen North Station, depending on traffic.

• Taxi / Ride-hailing: The most convenient option. A taxi from the airport to Xiamen North Station costs around 80–120 RMB. Show the driver “厦门北站” (Xiamen North Station) on your phone.
• Metro: Xiamen Metro Line 1 connects the airport (terminal at Gaoqi station) directly to Xiamen North Station. The journey takes about 40 minutes. Trains run every 6–10 minutes. It is the cheapest and most reliable public transport option.
• Airport Shuttle Bus: Some hotels and tourist bus services offer shuttles to Xiamen North Station, but schedules vary. Check with your accommodation or the airport information desk.

Getting to Xiamen Station from the Airport

• Taxi: About 15–20 minutes from the airport to Xiamen Station (approximately 40–60 RMB).
• Metro / Bus: Take Metro Line 1 from Gaoqi station to Xiamen Station (approx. 30 minutes). Alternatively, bus routes 951 and 952 also serve this route, but are slower.

Getting to Xiamen North Station from the City Center

• Metro: Line 1 runs from Xiamen Station (downtown) all the way to Xiamen North Station. The journey takes about 45–50 minutes. This is the recommended way for most travelers.
• Taxi: A taxi from Zhongshan Road or Gulangyu ferry terminal to Xiamen North Station costs about 100–150 RMB and takes 35–50 minutes.
• Buses: City bus routes (like 907, 949) connect various parts of the city to Xiamen North Station, but are slower and less convenient for luggage.

Practical Advice for Catching the Shenzhen–Zhengzhou High-Speed Train

• Book in advance: The Shenzhen–Zhengzhou high-speed train is a popular route. Tickets can be purchased online through platforms like 12306 (official), Trip.com, or travel agencies. Book at least a few days ahead, especially during Chinese holidays.
• Arrive early: Xiamen North Station is large. Arrive at least 30–45 minutes before departure to pass through security and find your platform.
• Check your platform: Your ticket will show your train number and platform. Follow the electronic boards and station announcements (in Chinese and English) to your gate.
• Luggage: High-speed trains have overhead racks and limited storage. If you have large suitcases, arrive early to find space.

Getting from Xiamen North Station to Nearby Attractions

• Gulangyu Island: Take Metro Line 1 from Xiamen North Station to Zhenhai Road station (downtown), then walk or take a short taxi to the ferry terminal. The ferry to Gulangyu leaves from multiple piers – the most common is Dongdu Ferry Terminal.
• Nanjing Tulou (Fujian Tulou): From Xiamen North Station, take a high-speed train to Nanjing station (about 1.5 hours). Alternatively, book a private tour or join a small group tour from Xiamen.
• Zhongshan Road: Take Metro Line 1 directly to Zhongshan Road station. This pedestrian street is lined with shops, snack stalls, and colonial-era buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the Shenzhen–Zhengzhou high-speed train stop at Xiamen North Station? A: Yes, the Shenzhen–Zhengzhou high-speed train (which runs from Shenzhen via Xiamen, Fuzhou, and stops at places like Zhengzhou) typically stops at Xiamen North Station. Always check your specific train number.

Q: How much does a taxi from Xiamen Airport to Xiamen North Station cost? A: Expect to pay approximately 80–120 RMB for a standard taxi. Ride-hailing apps like Didi may be slightly cheaper. Avoid unofficial taxis.

Q: Is there a direct metro from Xiamen Station to Xiamen North Station? A: Yes, Metro Line 1 runs directly between Xiamen Station and Xiamen North Station. The journey takes about 45 minutes.

Q: Can I buy train tickets at the station? A: Yes, ticket counters and self-service machines are available. However, for the Shenzhen–Zhengzhou route, it is strongly recommended to book online in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Conclusion

Getting to Xiamen Train Station – whether the central Xiamen Station or the larger Xiamen North Station – is straightforward thanks to the city’s efficient metro system. For long-distance high-speed trains like the Shenzhen–Zhengzhou route, Xiamen North Station is your stop. Use Metro Line 1 as your primary connection, or take a taxi for convenience. With a little planning, you can navigate Xiamen’s rail network smoothly and focus on enjoying your journey in Fujian.