The much-anticipated Guangzhou-Zhanjiang High-Speed Railway is currently in the final trial operation phase, gearing up for full commercial service by the end of this year. During a recent test ride, the Fuxing bullet train covered the route from Guangzhou to Maoming in approximately 70 minutes, marking a significant improvement in regional connectivity.
The G5217 train departed from Guangzhou Baiyun Station at 10 a.m. and arrived at Maoming South Station around 11 a.m. Traveling at a steady speed of 350 km/h, the journey from Maoming to Zhanjiang North Station took only about 25 minutes. With a total length of 401 kilometers and a design speed of 350 km/h, the railway is a key section of China's "Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal" high-speed rail network, linking the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) with the Beibu Gulf urban cluster and Hainan Free Trade Port.
Maoming South Station, a core hub along the western Guangdong section, features a station building spanning 15,000 square meters. Its wave-inspired design reflects Maoming's coastal identity, while the facility is equipped with smart security systems, widespread charging points, and passenger service zones. The station operates three platforms with seven lines, capable of handling up to 2,500 passengers during peak hours.
According to station officials, trains will stop only briefly at intermediate stations, significantly reducing travel time. From Maoming South Station, passengers can reach Mate Station in about 10 minutes, Zhanjiang's city center in 30 minutes, and Guangzhou in just 70 minutes. This efficiency enables same-day round trips for leisure activities, such as enjoying morning tea in the GBA and fresh seafood in western Guangdong.
The railway is also set to boost economic and cultural exchanges. Agricultural specialties like Maoming lychees and Huajuhong (citrus) will gain faster access to GBA markets via one-hour logistics channels. Meanwhile, tourists from the region will find it easier to explore Maoming's coastal attractions, supporting local tourism growth.
Scheduled to launch in December, the Guangzhou-Zhanjiang High-Speed Railway will offer frequent daily services between Guangzhou and Zhanjiang, covering peak commuting and off-peak travel needs. Maoming South Station will enhance connectivity with local transport networks, providing dedicated bus routes and taxi stands for seamless "rail-to-city" transfers.
Author | Jiang Chang
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Wei Shen, James Campion, Shen He
