A Traveller’s Guide to China’s High-Speed Rail: Everything You Need to Know

Travelling around China has never been more seamless or thrilling. The country’s high-speed rail network, known as China High-Speed Rail (HSR), is a technological marvel connecting over 45,000 kilometres of track and hundreds of cities. With sleek bullet trains reaching up to 350 km/h, it’s now possible to cross vast distances in comfort and style.

Whether you’re planning to zip between Beijing and Shanghai, explore the scenic landscapes around Hangzhou, or journey south to Guangzhou, here’s your complete guide to travelling on China’s high-speed trains. Covering ticket types, how to buy them, popular routes, and how to dine like a local on board.

Also read: Which Bubble Tea Brand to Try in Each China Province

Understanding China’s high-speed rail

China’s high-speed rail falls into three main categories: G, D, and C.

• G trains (高铁) are the fastest, reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h, and serve major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.

• D trains (动车) are slightly slower but equally comfortable, linking medium-sized cities and regional hubs.

• C trains (城际) mainly operate on intercity routes, perfect for short hops like Beijing–Tianjin or Chengdu–Chongqing.

All bullet trains are known for being clean, quiet, and remarkably punctual. Expect reclining seats, power outlets, air-conditioning, and reliable Wi-Fi on most services.

Ticket types: From second class to business comfort

When travelling by China bullet trains, passengers can choose from three main ticket classes:

Second Class: The most affordable option, featuring five seats per row (3+2 layout). Seats are comfortable, and there’s adequate legroom. Ideal for short or mid-range trips.

First Class: With four seats per row (2+2 layout), it offers more personal space, wider seats, and a complimentary snack or drink.

Business Class: The premium tier, offering lie-flat seats, free boxed meals during lunch and dinner, and priority boarding. It’s perfect for long journeys or those who prefer extra comfort.

Children under 1.5 metres tall usually qualify for discounted tickets, and all foreign passengers must present their passports when purchasing or collecting tickets.

How to buy train tickets in China (For travellers from Singapore and abroad)

For Singaporean travellers, purchasing China high-speed train tickets is straightforward. You can buy them online, through travel apps, or directly at railway stations.

The official China Railway website is 12306.cn (also available via the 12306 app). The interface is mainly in Chinese, but translation tools or third-party booking sites make it easy.

Trusted platforms like Trip.com and China Highlights offer English-language options and accept international credit cards and PayPal. Simply search your desired route, select your train, and receive an e-ticket or collection code.

If you prefer to buy tickets in person, visit the station’s ticket counter with your passport and train details. It’s best to book early, especially during Chinese New Year or Golden Week, when trains sell out fast.

Where to take China’s high-speed rail

China’s high-speed trains operate from dedicated railway stations, which are usually modern, spacious, and separate from the older conventional train terminals. In most major cities, these stations are located slightly outside the city centre but are easily accessible via metro, bus, or taxi.

For example, in Beijing, high-speed trains depart primarily from Beijing South Railway Station, a sleek and well-connected hub linked directly to Metro Lines 4 and 14. In Shanghai, you’ll likely board at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, which is integrated with Hongqiao International Airport and Metro Lines 2 and 10, making transfers especially convenient.

It’s a good idea to double-check which station your train departs from, as many cities, such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Nanjing, have more than one major railway terminal. Arriving at the wrong one could mean missing your train entirely.

Popular China high-speed train routes

China’s vast rail network connects every corner of the country. From modern metropolises to UNESCO heritage towns. Here are some of the most popular bullet train routes in China:

Beijing–Shanghai

The busiest route in the country, covering 1,318 kilometres in just 4.5 hours. Trains depart frequently throughout the day, connecting two of China’s most iconic cities.

Shanghai–Hangzhou

A favourite among locals and tourists alike. The journey takes under an hour, making it perfect for a scenic day trip between city skylines and lakeside tranquillity.

Beijing–Guangzhou

An epic route spanning over 2,200 kilometres, completed in around eight hours—a journey that used to take more than a full day.

Chengdu–Chongqing

A short but stunning ride through Sichuan’s hilly countryside. In just 1–1.5 hours, you can hop between spicy food capitals and vibrant cultural hubs.

These routes are fast, reliable and offer a front-row view of China’s changing landscapes—from misty mountains and farmland to futuristic skylines.

Also read: Best Things to Do in Chengdu: A Guide to the City’s Charm and Culture

Dining on China’s high-speed trains

Food plays a big part in the Chinese travel experience, and high-speed trains make it easy to eat well while on the move. Whether you fancy a warm meal, instant noodles, or a quick snack, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Dining carriage

Most long-distance high-speed trains have a dining carriage, typically found in the 5th or 8th carriage. Meals include Chinese-style boxed sets, instant noodles, snacks, and drinks such as tea, milk, coffee, and sometimes beer.

You’ll find tables for around 30 to 40 passengers, although some may be occupied by those with standing tickets. Meals are served mainly around lunch and dinner, and Halal (清真餐) meals are available on request.

Food trolleys

If you’d rather not leave your seat, food trolleys roll through the aisles throughout the journey. Staff sell packaged meals during mealtimes, and snacks or drinks at other hours. Simply signal to the attendant when you see the trolley, choose what you’d like, and pay in cash (RMB or HKD).

Online meal ordering

For added convenience, passengers on G and D category trains departing from 27 major railway stations, including Shanghai Hongqiao, Hangzhou East, Guangzhou South, Chengdu East and Xi’an North, can order meals online via 12306.cn or the 12306 app.

After choosing your train, click “订餐服务” (Booking Meals Online), select from options like KFC, McDonald’s, Burger King, or local restaurants, and pay via Alipay or WeChat Pay. Your meal will be delivered directly to your seat at the next designated stop.

Keep in mind that orders must be placed at least two hours before departure, and prices are often slightly higher than on-board purchases.

Travel tips for China’s high-speed rail

It’s best to arrive at the station early, as China’s railway hubs are often vast and operate with airport-style security checks and boarding gates. Keep your passport handy at all times, since it’s required for both ticket collection and boarding verification. While the trains are modern and efficient, it’s wise to bring some cash, as on-board staff may not accept foreign bank cards.

If you prefer familiar flavours, consider buying food before boarding, as many stations feature international chains such as KFC, McDonald’s and local bakeries. Lastly, downloading the 12306 or Trip.com apps can be a real time-saver, allowing you to check schedules, seat availability and real-time train updates with ease.

Also read: China Destinations That Feel Like Famous Overseas Locations

Why travelling by train is the best way to see China

Travelling by high-speed train is one of the most rewarding ways to explore China. You’ll glide through a landscape that shifts from futuristic skylines to timeless countryside. All in quiet, air-conditioned comfort.

Efficient, scenic, and surprisingly affordable, China’s high-speed rail network isn’t just a way to get from point A to B; it’s a journey in itself. So sit back, sip your green tea, and watch the Middle Kingdom unfold outside your window.