[Vietnam Railways] Hanoi - Nanning (China) International Passenger Train

🚆 Hanoi to Nanning Railway – Cross-Border Train Journey

Travel seamlessly between Vietnam and China with the Hanoi to Nanning Railway — a comfortable, scenic, and culturally rich overland journey.

Step aboard the international railway connecting Hanoi, Vietnam’s charming capital, with Nanning, the vibrant capital of China’s Guangxi Province. Ideal for travelers seeking an affordable, relaxed alternative to flying, this cross-border train route combines convenience, comfort, and unforgettable landscapes.

📍 Route Details:

Departure: Hanoi (Gia Lâm Railway Station) at 21:20

Arrival: Nanning (Nanning Railway Station) at 10:00

Travel Time: Approx. 11–12 hours (overnight train)

Border Crossing: Dong Dang (Vietnam) – Pingxiang (China)

🛏️ Train Features:

Air-conditioned soft sleeper cabins for restful overnight travel

Shared restrooms

Customs & immigration procedures handled at the border stations

🌏 Why Choose This Train?

Budget-Friendly: Cheaper than most flights

Eco-Conscious: A greener way to travel

Scenic Journey: Enjoy views of rice fields, limestone mountains, and rural landscapes

Cultural Experience: Connect with locals and fellow travelers on an authentic rail journey

Whether you’re heading to China for business, tourism, or adventure, the Hanoi to Nanning train offers a stress-free way to cross borders while enjoying the romance of classic railway travel.

Border Crossing Procedures – Midnight Immigration

This part of the journey can be quite memorable (and a little challenging), as border formalities occur late at night:

📍 At Dong Dang Station (Vietnam) – around 00:55–02:50 (Vietnam time): All passengers must bring all luggage off the train to the station hall for Vietnam exit procedures.

Show your passport and ticket to immigration officers, then return to the train after clearance.

📍 At Pingxiang Station (China) – around 04:31–05:05 (China time): The train crosses the border and stops at Pingxiang Station.

Once again, all passengers must bring all luggage to the station for China entry procedures.

You will need to fill out an Entry Card (distributed onboard or available at the station) and present your passport (with visa) to Chinese immigration officers. Your luggage may be scanned or inspected before reboarding.

💡 These procedures take place in the early hours of the morning, when you might feel sleepy.

Stay alert, keep your passport and documents ready, and follow the guidance of train staff and border officers.

Pack light if possible, as you’ll have to carry your bags twice during the night.