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Bottom line: Guilin Liangjiang Airport is the most convenient place to pick up a rental car. You need a Chinese driver's license, passport, and deposit. Book ahead and inspect the car before leaving the lot.
International Driving Permits are not officially recognized for driving in mainland China. You need a valid Chinese driver's license to rent and drive a car legally. Always verify current requirements with the rental provider and local traffic authority before you book.
License requirements
Rental companies require a valid Chinese driver's license. If you only have a foreign license, you cannot rent a car in Guilin. Your options are a private driver, taxi/DiDi, bus, or organized tour.
Rental companies
Both Chinese platforms and international brands operate at KWL. Chinese platforms (eHi, CAR Inc., Zuche) often have lower prices and better local coverage but limited English support. International brands may offer English-language booking and service.
Pickup process
- Arrive at the rental counter with your passport and Chinese license.
- Review the rental agreement, insurance coverage, and fuel policy.
- Pay the rental fee and deposit (credit card or Chinese mobile payment).
- Walk around the car and photograph any scratches, dents, or interior damage.
- Confirm the emergency contact number and return location.
Costs & deposits
| Car type | Daily rate | Typical deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Economy sedan | ¥200–350 (US$29–50) | ¥2,000–5,000 (US$290–720) |
| Compact SUV | ¥350–550 (US$50–79) | ¥3,000–6,000 (US$430–860) |
| Mid-size SUV | ¥550–900 (US$79–130) | ¥5,000–8,000 (US$720–1,150) |
Price note: Approximate USD values use the August 2026 exchange rate. Prices and deposits vary by provider, season, and demand.
Deposits are usually released within 15–30 days after return, assuming no fines or damage.
Source & verification: Rental company names, prices, and deposit ranges are based on publicly listed rates at Guilin Liangjiang Airport and major platforms, researched in August 2026. Policies change; confirm directly with the provider before booking.
Return tips
Return the car with the agreed fuel level and allow extra time for inspection. Airport returns are convenient if your flight departs from KWL. Some companies also accept returns at Guilin North Railway Station or downtown branches.
First drive from the airport
The airport is southwest of Guilin city. Most travelers drive to Guilin city (30–45 minutes) or directly to Yangshuo (1.5–2 hours). Use Baidu Maps or Amap; Google Maps is unreliable without a VPN.
Cannot drive? Here's what to do instead
A Chinese driver's license is required to rent and drive in mainland China. If you do not have one, you still have excellent options for exploring Guilin:
- Private driver: Flexible door-to-door service, especially good for families or groups. Negotiate the route and stops in advance.
- Organized day tours: Cost-effective for Longji and Yangshuo highlights without the navigation stress.
- Li River cruise: The classic Guilin → Yangshuo scenic boat journey. See our Li River cruise guide.
- High-speed rail + local transport: Fast trains connect Guilin and Yangshuo; use DiDi or taxis for local trips.
- DiDi / taxi: Works well for short city trips and Guilin ↔ Yangshuo transfers.
Compare all options in our Guilin transportation guide.
Emergency information
Important: Emergency numbers and service details should be verified before departure. The numbers below are the standard national codes used in mainland China.
- Police: 110
- Medical emergency / ambulance: 120
- Fire: 119
- Traffic accident: 122
- Your embassy or consulate: Save the local number before travel.
- Rental company: Save the emergency hotline provided at pickup.
Useful Chinese phrases
- Help: 救命 (jiùmìng)
- Call the police: 报警 (bàojǐng)
- I need a hospital: 我要去医院 (wǒ yào qù yīyuàn)
- There was an accident: 出事故了 (chū shìgù le)