Intercity Travel in China via High-Speed Rail: The fastest and most convenient way to travel
Planning a trip to China and wondering how to travel efficiently between cities? Look no further than China’s High-Speed Rail (HSR) — the largest and busiest high-speed rail network in the world, with over 45,000 kilometers of track connecting nearly every major city.
Whether you're heading from Beijing to Shanghai in under 5 hours or exploring lesser-known gems like Guilin or Xi’an, riding the high-speed train is often faster, more convenient, and more comfortable than flying.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about taking China’s High-Speed Rail — from how to book tickets, what to expect on board, to tips for navigating stations.
Having traveled across China by train myself, I’ll also share insider tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free. So if you’re planning to hop from city to city, here’s why riding China’s high-speed trains might just be the best way to explore the country.
Introduction to the China High-Speed Rail
China’s high-speed rail network is the world’s longest and most extensively used high-speed rail system. The network currently spans 45,000 km, connecting over 550 cities across China!
These high-speed trains, or bullet trains, can reach a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph), dramatically reducing travel times between major cities and making intercity travel in China more convenient than ever.
Operated by the China Railway Corporation under the brand China Railway High-speed (CRH), the HSR trains and services are known for their reliability and speed. China aims to expand its railway network to 200,000km by 2035, including 70,000km of high-speed rail!
Popular Routes on the China High-Speed Rail
China’s high-speed rail connects over 550 cities, making it incredibly easy to get from one city to the next. Some of the most popular routes include:
1) Beijing to Shanghai
Credit: SteveAllenPhoto and bingdian via Getty Images Pro
Beijing and Shanghai are no doubt two of the most iconic cities in China. Beijing is China’s bustling capital, offering a captivating blend of ancient landmarks like the Forbidden City and Great Wall.
Then there's Shanghai, with its futuristic skyline, historic Bund waterfront, and electric blend of East-meets-West culture — where you can stroll through old-world alleyways by day and soak up neon-lit nightlife by night. Shanghai Disneyland also has the world's first Zootopia-themed land!
I've been to almost a dozen cities in China, and Shanghai is one of my favorites.
Covering a distance of 1,318 km (819 miles), the train journey from Beijing to Shanghai takes approximately 4.5 to 6 hours. This popular route passes through 7 provinces, stopping at Tianjin, Jinan, Nanjing, and more!
Take note: both cities have multiple stations, but Beijing's main station is South Beijing while Shanghai's is Shanghai Hongqiao — right beside Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. If you want to be closer to the city center, you can also choose to alight at Shanghai or Shanghai South stations.
2) Shanghai to Hangzhou
Credit: chuyu and george via Getty Images
A popular day trip for those based in Shanghai, the high-speed train covers a distance of approximately 169 km (105 miles) to Hangzhou — taking about 40 minutes!
Stroll around the stunning West Lake, known for its picturesque landscapes and historic temples, and visit the scenic tea plantations in the Longjing village to taste some of China’s finest green tea.
3) Hangzhou to Suzhou
Credit: Zi You and Toni Laaveri via Getty Images
This picturesque route offers travelers the opportunity to experience two of China's most charming cities, Hangzhou and Suzhou. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via high-speed rail and covers 160 km (99 miles), so these cities are often grouped on a single trip.
In Suzhou, explore the city’s famous classical gardens, like the Humble Administrator’s Garden, and take a relaxing boat ride along the ancient canals.
Don't miss out on a day trip to Jinxi Ancient Town from Suzhou! Known for its peaceful ambiance, this picturesque water town offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life with charming museums, local crafts, and scenic boat rides.
4) Shenzhen to Guangzhou
Shenzhen to Guangzhou is another popular route! Shenzhen offers a mix of attractions, from the innovative technology hub of Nanshan Science and Technology Park to cultural spots like OCT Loft and Dafen Oil Painting Village, plus family-friendly spots like Shenzhen Xiaomeisha Ocean World and Window of the World
On the other hand, Guangzhou is known as the "City of Flowers" and there's no shortage of things to do here either. Visit the iconic Canton Tower, bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, mega theme parks like Guangzhou Sunac Land — and dig into the city's food scene, famous for authentic Cantonese dim sum.
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Taking the high-speed rail from Shenzhen to Guangzhou is a quick and convenient way to travel between these two vibrant cities. Covering roughly 140 kilometers, the journey takes just 30–40 minutes, making it a popular option for both business and leisure travelers.
Trains depart frequently from Shenzhen North Station and arrive at Guangzhou South Station, providing a seamless, high-speed journey with comfortable seating and scenic views of the bustling Guangdong province. With trains running throughout the day, it’s easy to plan a day trip or continue your travels into the heart of Guangzhou or beyond.
Types of High-Speed Trains
China’s high-speed rail system features three main types of trains, each offering a different travel experience to suit your needs:
- G-Trains (Gaotie): These are China’s fastest high-speed trains, reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h. G-trains are ideal for long-distance travel between major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, cutting travel time significantly. They offer first and second-class seats as well as business class, which provides more spacious, reclining seats.
- D-Trains (Dongche): Slightly slower than G-trains, D-trains travel at speeds of up to 250 km/h and are perfect for shorter routes and overnight trips. These trains are popular for routes that connect cities within the same region or for budget-conscious travelers. Some D-trains offer sleeper berths for a more comfortable overnight journey.
- C-Trains (Chengji): Typically used for intercity travel, C-trains operate at speeds up to 200 km/h and serve shorter distances between cities. They are common in highly populated areas like the Beijing-Tianjin corridor and are convenient for daily commuting or day trips, offering quick, efficient service with comfortable seating.
These three train types make it easy to explore China efficiently, offering speed, comfort, and a range of options to suit various travel plans and budgets.
Types of Train Classes
China’s high-speed trains offer a range of ticket options to suit different budgets and comfort levels. The main seat classes are first and second class, though some trains also offer business class, VIP class and sleeper cabins.
First Class
First Class seats on the Beijing to Shanghai high-speed rail offer a comfortable and spacious travel experience. The seats are arranged in a 2+2 layout, providing more room compared to Second Class.
With wider, cushioned seats, extra legroom, and a greater recline, passengers can relax throughout the journey. The carriage is quieter and less crowded, making the ride much more enjoyable.
Second Class
Second Class seats on the high-speed rail are the most affordable way to experience China’s famous bullet trains. Seats are arranged in a 3+2 layout, so they’re a bit cozier than First Class, but still comfortable enough for long journeys.
Each seat comes with a foldable tray table, armrests, and power outlets to keep your devices charged on the go. Although these carriages tend to be busier, the trains are modern, clean, and smooth, making Second Class a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on comfort.
Buying China High-Speed Rail Tickets
Book your high-speed rail tickets as early as possible — especially if you’re traveling during peak times and national holidays like China's Golden Week. Tickets usually open for booking 30 days in advance, though some routes allow up to 60 days.
Tips for Taking China's High-Speed Trains
China’s train stations are impressive but can be overwhelming! Major hubs like Beijing South and Shanghai Hongqiao are enormous, so it is crucial to arrive early at the railway station, to ensure a smooth travel experience and allow extra time to navigate these bustling places.
1) Don't forget your passport
Unlike local passengers who use their ID cards, foreign travelers only need their passport, as it is automatically linked to their ticket.
Simply scan your passport at the automated gates, and the system will verify your booking before allowing entry. If there are any issues, station staff are available to assist.
2) Arrive early for security checks
All passengers are required to pass through a security check before entering the train station — similar to airport security. You'll need to scan your luggage through an X-ray machine and walk through a body scanner at the station entrance.
Although the process is usually quick and well-organized, it’s a good idea to arrive at least 45 minutes before your train departs, especially during busy times. Giving yourself extra time means you can get through security without stress and find your platform with ease.
3) Download China travel apps in advance
Before your trip, be sure to download essential China travel apps to make navigating the country much easier. WeChat is a must-have — not only is it China’s go-to messaging app, but it’s often used for mobile payments, ticket collection, and even scanning QR codes at stations.
Since access to app stores and internet might be limited in China, it’s a good idea to download and set up these apps before you arrive. Having Google Translate (with offline mode) is also helpful for reading signs and communicating with staff. A bit of prep will make your high-speed rail journey smooth and stress-free!
Here are 10 useful apps to download before your next trip to China:
Planning a Trip to China
China’s high-speed rail is a fantastic way to explore the country, offering incredible convenience and connectivity. Plan ahead, book your tickets early, and get ready for an exciting journey through some of China’s most beautiful destinations.
To ensure a smooth trip to China, ensure you get all your documents in order and download these essential apps like WeChat and DiDi before flying.
Ready to experience the future of rail travel? Book your high-speed rail tickets on Klook today for an easy, hassle-free experience!
Frequently Asked Questions about China’s High-Speed Rail
Can I bring large luggage on the train?
Yes, though luggage space can vary. If you have very large items, consider a luggage transfer service.
How early should I arrive at the station?
Arrive at least 1–1.5 hours before your train for a smooth boarding experience.
Is English signage available on trains and at stations?
Yes, on most major routes. Smaller stations may have less English signage, so plan accordingly.
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