The recent inauguration of the Guangzhou-Zhanjiang High-Speed Railway has sparked a tourism renaissance in Zhanjiang, Guangdong’s southernmost coastal city. On its inaugural operation day, approximately 200 travelers participated in a specially curated journey organized by Guangzhou’s cultural and tourism authorities in partnership with GZL International Travel Service.
Tourists now have multiple itinerary options, ranging from immersive three-day cultural explorations of Zhanjiang to extended five-day experiences combining Zhanjiang with Hainan province. The integrated transportation network enables seamless high-speed rail and ferry connections across the Qiongzhou Strait, offering visitors both scenic beauty and duty-free shopping opportunities.
The economic impact has been immediate and substantial. GZL International Travel Service reported a remarkable 50% increase in revenue from Zhanjiang-related tourism products compared to 2024 figures. Vice-President Wen Shuang confirmed the destination’s growing popularity among travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences.
Zhanjiang, celebrated as the birthplace of Leizhou culture, boasts exceptional natural landscapes and cultural resources that are now more accessible than ever. The railway’s opening has transformed Xiashan district, home to Zhanjiang North Railway Station, into a strategic gateway hub that significantly influences visitors’ overall travel experience.
The infrastructure project connects cultural landmarks, scenic attractions, and culinary destinations along its route. According to Xu Hechang, a village official in Mazhang district, tourists can now experience unique ecological tourism activities, including enjoying seafood harvested directly from the pristine mangrove ecosystems.
Local business leaders have welcomed the development enthusiastically. Chen Yu, chairman of Guangdong Maodegong Group, emphasized how the railway fulfills long-standing local expectations: “With increased visitor numbers, we’re excited to showcase Zhanjiang’s beautiful sights, culinary delights, and engaging activities to friends nationwide and globally.”
The enhanced connectivity has revitalized short-distance and weekend travel markets, boosting ancillary industries including hospitality, dining, and retail. Shen Guanxiong, staff member at May Coast Bed and Breakfast on Naozhou Island, reported extensive renovations and service preparations to accommodate the tourism surge.
At a recent press conference, Liu Chunhui, deputy director of Zhanjiang’s commerce bureau, outlined strategic initiatives leveraging the railway as a core driver for the city’s consumption season. The integration of high-speed rail with flagship events like ‘celebrate the New Year in Zhanjiang’ features carefully designed travel routes combining transportation, winter tourism, cuisine, and shopping experiences.
The city has launched complementary consumer coupon campaigns and partnered with renowned dining establishments recognized for ‘Zhanjiang’s top 10 traditional dishes.’ Additional upcoming activities include winter vacation study tours offering immersive Lingnan cultural experiences for families.
According to Chen Chen, deputy director of Zhanjiang’s culture and tourism bureau, the city is accelerating quality enhancements across its cultural and tourism sectors. The comprehensive strategy aims to establish an integrated development model combining transportation, cultural tourism, and consumption, positioning Zhanjiang as the premier destination for ‘weekend micro-vacations’ from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.