If you’re visiting Hong Kong from Malaysia, you don’t have to stop your adventure there. The Hong Kong High-Speed Rail (HSR) connects Hong Kong directly to major cities in mainland China, making it easy for Malaysians to explore more places in one trip.
You can shop in Shenzhen, try Cantonese food in Guangzhou, or even ride all the way to Beijing without needing to take a flight. The train is clean, safe, and very punctual — perfect for family trips, couples, or even solo travellers. This guide shares everything Malaysian travellers need to know before hopping on the high-speed train from Hong Kong.
🏙️ Getting to Know Hong Kong’s High-Speed Rail
Source: Railway PRO
The Hong Kong High-Speed Rail officially opened in 2018 and is part of China’s massive high-speed train network — the world’s largest. It connects Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Station to more than 50 cities across Mainland China.
The trains can travel up to 300 km/h, meaning you can reach:
- Shenzhen in about 20 minutes
- Guangzhou in less than an hour
- Beijing in around 9 hours
West Kowloon Station is in the heart of the city, between Jordan and Austin MTR stations, close to Tsim Sha Tsui, making it super convenient for Malaysians staying in Kowloon hotels.
The station feels like an airport — modern, spacious, and filled with shops, restaurants, convenience stores, and even currency exchange counters. You can grab a coffee, charge your phone, and wait comfortably before your train departs.
🎫Booking Your Train Ticket the Easy Way
Source: Hong Kong Extras
Buying tickets is simple and straightforward. The most convenient way is to book online through Trip.com before your trip. You can check train times, compare seat types, and pay using Malaysian credit cards or e-wallets.
If you prefer to buy in person, you can also get tickets at:
- Ticket counters at West Kowloon Station
- Self-service ticket machines (English language option available)
- Authorized ticket agents around Hong Kong
There are three main seat classes:
- Standard Class – comfortable and affordable, great for short routes like Shenzhen or Guangzhou.
- First Class – more legroom and wider seats.
- Business Class – the most premium, with spacious reclining seats and quiet cabins.
Important: Bring your passport when collecting or buying tickets. Your name on the ticket must match your passport exactly. Book at least 3–5 days in advance, especially during weekends or Chinese holidays like Golden Week, when seats sell out fast.
Recommended Hotels in Hong Kong
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🛃Smooth Immigration Process at West Kowloon Station
Source: Wikimedia Commons
One of the best things about taking the Hong Kong High-Speed Rail is how easy and fast the immigration process is. Everything happens inside West Kowloon Station, a modern terminal built specially for cross-border train travel. You don’t have to transfer or pass through separate customs buildings — everything is done under one roof.
The system here is called “co-location arrangement,” which means both Hong Kong and Mainland China’s immigration and customs are located inside the same station. It saves time and keeps the process smooth for travellers, especially Malaysians heading to nearby cities like Shenzhen or Guangzhou.
🧭 Step-by-Step Guide to the Immigration Process
Step | What Happens | Tips for Malaysians |
|---|---|---|
1. Security Check | After entering the station, you’ll pass your bags through a scanner and walk through a metal detector. | Keep your electronics and passport within easy reach. |
2. Hong Kong Departure Clearance | Present your passport to exit Hong Kong. Automated e-gates are available for some travellers. | If you’re not eligible for e-gate, join the manual counter line. |
3. Mainland China Immigration | Walk straight to the next section (same building) for Chinese entry clearance. | Make sure your China visa is ready and valid. |
4. Customs Check | Place luggage on the belt for scanning before proceeding to the departure hall. | Avoid bringing restricted items like fruits, meat, or liquids over the limit. |
5. Boarding Area | Once cleared, follow the signs to your gate and wait for boarding. | Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure to complete all steps calmly. |
💡 Extra Information
- Documents Required: Bring your passport, China visa, and train ticket (physical or e-ticket).
- Language Help: All signs and announcements are in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, so navigation is easy.
- Family-Friendly: Separate lines are available for families with children or elderly travellers.
- Efficiency: The whole process usually takes 20–40 minutes, depending on crowd size.
🚄 Top Routes Malaysians Love to Take
The Hong Kong High-Speed Rail connects Hong Kong with over 50 major cities in Mainland China. For Malaysian travellers, this opens up endless possibilities — from short weekend getaways to longer cultural trips. Whether you’re going for food, shopping, or sightseeing, there’s a route that fits every plan.
Here are some of the most popular high-speed routes Malaysians often choose, along with travel times and what to expect at each stop.
🗺️ Most Popular Routes from Hong Kong
Route | Duration | Why Malaysians Love It | Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
Hong Kong → Shenzhen | 18–23 mins | The easiest and fastest route. Malaysians love visiting Shenzhen for shopping malls, tech gadgets, halal eateries, and family-friendly theme parks like Window of the World. | Perfect for a day trip. Just remember your China visa and keep your passport ready. |
Hong Kong → Guangzhou | 45–55 mins | Known as the home of Cantonese cuisine and large wholesale markets. Great for food lovers and small business travellers. | Stay near Beijing Road or Tianhe District for easy access to attractions. |
Hong Kong → Zhuhai | 1 hr 10 mins | A calm coastal city next to Macau, popular for its seafood, relaxing vibes, and proximity to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom. | You can continue to Macau via the nearby border after exploring Zhuhai. |
Hong Kong → Changsha | 3.5 hrs | Famous for spicy Hunan dishes and cultural landmarks. A good choice for Malaysians who enjoy authentic Chinese flavours and street life. | Bring tissue and water — local food can be really spicy! |
Hong Kong → Wuhan | 4.5–5 hrs | A historic city along the Yangtze River, known for its Yellow Crane Tower and beautiful bridges. | Consider staying a night to explore the riverside and try local noodles. |
Hong Kong → Beijing | 8.5–9 hrs | A long but scenic route through China’s heartland. Perfect for those who want to see the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Chinese culture in depth. | Travel in First Class for more comfort and legroom. |
Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Hong Kong
- Round-trip
- One way
- direct cheapest
SZB21:304h 15mDirectHKG01:45Kuala Lumpur - Hong Kong|Tue, Jan 20|HK ExpressHKG16:204h 10mDirectSZB20:30Hong Kong - Kuala Lumpur|Thu, Jan 22|HK ExpressTHB 4,223THB 5,26720% OFF20% OFFTHB 5,267THB 4,223 - SZB21:304h 15mDirectHKG01:45Kuala Lumpur - Hong Kong|Wed, Jan 21|HK ExpressHKG16:204h 10mDirectSZB20:30Hong Kong - Kuala Lumpur|Fri, Jan 23|HK ExpressTHB 4,281THB 5,26719% OFF19% OFFTHB 5,267THB 4,281
- SZB21:304h 15mDirectHKG01:45Kuala Lumpur - Hong Kong|Fri, Jan 9|HK ExpressHKG16:353h 55mDirectSZB20:30Hong Kong - Kuala Lumpur|Tue, Jan 13|HK ExpressTHB 4,687THB 5,26711% OFF11% OFFTHB 5,267THB 4,687
KUL1:00 PM3h 5mDirectHKG2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Hong Kong|Sat, Dec 13|HK Express
HKG1:00 PM3h 5mDirectKUL2:00 PMHong Kong - Kuala Lumpur|Sat, Dec 13|HK ExpressFind More FlightsFind More Flights
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🧳 Helpful Travel Tips Before You Go
📄 Documents You’ll Need
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- China Visa: Required if you’re entering Mainland China (for example, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, or Beijing).
- Train Ticket: Keep a printed copy or show the e-ticket on your phone.
⏰ Arrive Early
- Arrive at West Kowloon Station 45–60 minutes before departure.
- The station is large, and you’ll need time for security and immigration checks.
- During weekends or holidays, come even earlier to avoid long queues.
🕓 Tip: Boarding gates usually close 10 minutes before the train leaves.
🎒 Luggage & Packing
Type | Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Carry-on Bags | 2 per person | Keep under 20kg each |
Big Suitcases | 1 per person | Store in luggage racks or end compartments |
Liquids/Food | Allowed in small amounts | Avoid strong-smelling food on the train |
📶 Stay Connected
- Free Wi-Fi is available at West Kowloon Station, but not on the train.
- Buy a China SIM card or eSIM for internet access once you cross the border.
- Most apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay can be linked to Malaysian credit cards now.
📱 Tip: Download maps and translation apps before entering China for easier navigation.
🍱 Food and Drinks
- You can bring your own snacks or buy food at the station.
- Some trains sell drinks and light meals via trolleys.
- Water dispensers are available near the restrooms on long routes.
💬 Language Help
- Signs are in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
- Station staff can assist in English if you need help.
- If you’re unsure, show your ticket or destination to staff — they’re used to helping foreign travellers.
🌦️ Weather and Clothing
- Bring a light jacket — trains are air-conditioned and can get chilly.
- Check the weather before you go. Southern China cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou are usually warm and humid.
🚉 The Smart Way to Travel Beyond Hong Kong
The Hong Kong High-Speed Rail isn’t just transportation — it’s part of the travel experience. For Malaysians who love convenience and want to explore beyond Hong Kong, it’s the best way to connect with Mainland China.
Whether you’re hopping over to Shenzhen for shopping, exploring Guangzhou’s food scene, or riding to Beijing for history, the train makes it easy. Book your tickets early on Trip.com, pack light, and get ready to see more — your next destination is just a fast ride away.
FAQs: Hong Kong High-Speed
Do Malaysians need a visa to take the Hong Kong High-Speed Rail?
You don’t need a visa to enter Hong Kong, but if you plan to continue your journey to Mainland China (for example, to Shenzhen or Guangzhou), you must apply for a China visa before your trip. Immigration checks are done at West Kowloon Station before boarding the train.How early should I arrive at West Kowloon Station?
It’s best to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes before your train departs. You’ll need time to collect tickets, go through security, and clear both Hong Kong and Mainland China immigration. The station is big, so arriving early helps avoid last-minute rush.Can I bring luggage on the high-speed train?
Yes, you can bring up to two pieces of luggage per person, usually not exceeding 20kg each. There are luggage racks above the seats and larger storage spaces at the end of each carriage. Keep valuables like passports, phones, and wallets with you.Where can I buy Hong Kong High-Speed Rail tickets?
The easiest option is booking online through Trip.com before you travel. It’s fast, secure, and available in English. You can also buy tickets at West Kowloon Station ticket counters or self-service machines using your passport.