China High-Speed Rail

中国高铁 (Zhōngguó Gāotiě)

Ride the Dragon's Path

China's high-speed rail network represents the pinnacle of modern transportation engineering, connecting major cities across the vast Middle Kingdom with unprecedented speed and efficiency. With trains reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h, the network spans over 40,000 kilometers, making it the world's largest high-speed railway system.

The high-speed rail experience combines cutting-edge technology with exceptional comfort, offering travelers a smooth, punctual, and scenic journey between China's ancient capitals and modern metropolises. Stations are typically located in city centers, providing convenient access without the hassles of airport travel.

Ride the Dragon's Path

Experience the modern manifestation of Chinese engineering excellence - the same spirit that built the Great Wall now moves you at 350 km/h.

Travel China's revolutionary high-speed rail system that connects ancient cities with cutting-edge technology, offering comfort and speed unmatched anywhere in the world.

Service Classes

Business Class

商务座

2-3x Economy priceLong journeys, business travel

Features & Amenities:

  • Spacious 2+1 seating
  • Complimentary meals
  • Priority boarding
  • Premium lounges
  • Power outlets
  • WiFi access

First Class

一等座

1.5-2x Economy priceComfort seekers, 4+ hour journeys

Features & Amenities:

  • Comfortable 2+2 seating
  • More legroom
  • Reclining seats
  • Power outlets
  • Complimentary snacks
  • Quieter carriages

Second Class

二等座

Standard pricingBudget travelers, short to medium trips

Features & Amenities:

  • Standard 3+2 seating
  • Basic amenities
  • Power outlets
  • Food service available
  • Most economical
  • Clean and comfortable

Popular Routes

Beijing ↔ Shanghai

1,318 km4.5-6 hoursEvery 10-15 minutes

Route Highlights:

  • Most popular route
  • Multiple daily departures
  • Scenic countryside views

Typical Pricing:

Second Class: ¥553, First Class: ¥933

Beijing ↔ Guangzhou

2,298 km8-9 hoursMultiple daily

Route Highlights:

  • North to South traverse
  • Passes through multiple provinces
  • Alternative to flights

Typical Pricing:

Second Class: ¥862, First Class: ¥1,383

Shanghai ↔ Xi'an

1,511 km6-7 hoursSeveral daily

Route Highlights:

  • Modern to ancient cities
  • Comfortable overnight alternative
  • Scenic mountain passages

Typical Pricing:

Second Class: ¥515, First Class: ¥825

Beijing ↔ Xi'an

1,216 km4.5-5.5 hoursFrequent service

Route Highlights:

  • Capital to ancient capital
  • Fast connection
  • Popular tourist route

Typical Pricing:

Second Class: ¥515, First Class: ¥823

Booking & Travel Tips

Book tickets 30 days in advance for popular routes and holidays
Bring passport - required for ticket purchase and boarding
Arrive at station 30 minutes early for security and boarding
Download 12306 app or use Trip.com for English booking
Consider first class for journeys over 4 hours
Peak times: Friday evenings, Sunday evenings, holidays
Food is available onboard, but bringing snacks is common
Power outlets available at every seat for device charging

Modern Dragons on Ancient Paths

China's high-speed trains follow routes that echo ancient pathways connecting the empire's great cities. Where once imperial messengers rode for days between Beijing and Shanghai, sleek CRH trains now glide silently at 350 kilometers per hour. The same engineering spirit that built the Great Wall and Grand Canal now powers the world's most advanced railway network, connecting past and future with unprecedented grace.

"一日千里"
"Covering a thousand li in a single day"