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Top 10 China Railway Travel Cities
China's vast and extensive railway network connects a wide range of cities, making train travel a convenient way to explore the country's rich cultural heritage and modern advancements. Here are the top 10 cities of China railway travel:
1. Beijing
The capital city of China, known for its rich history and iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, and Tiananmen Square. Beijing's extensive railway network makes it a central hub for travelers.
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2. Shanghai
China's largest city and a global financial hub, Shanghai is famous for its modern skyline, the Bund waterfront, and the historical French Concession. High-speed trains connect Shanghai to many other cities.
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3. Xi'an
Home to the Terracotta Army and the ancient starting point of the Silk Road, Xi'an is a city steeped in history. It's easily accessible by train and offers a glimpse into China's rich past.
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4. Chengdu
Known for its relaxed atmosphere and spicy Sichuan cuisine, Chengdu is also the place to visit for panda lovers, as it's home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
5. Guangzhou
A bustling metropolis in southern China, Guangzhou is known for its Cantonese cuisine and as a major commercial and transportation hub. It's a key stop on many high-speed train routes.
6. Hangzhou
Renowned for its picturesque West Lake and tea plantations, Hangzhou is a city that combines natural beauty with historical and cultural sites. It's well-connected by train and is just a short ride from Shanghai.
7. Suzhou
Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," Suzhou is famous for its elegant classical gardens, canals, and silk industry. High-speed trains make it an easy day trip from Shanghai.
8. Kunming
Known as the "Spring City" for its pleasant climate year-round, Kunming serves as a gateway to the diverse cultures and landscapes of Yunnan Province. It's well-connected by train to other parts of China.
9. Guilin
Famous for its stunning karst landscapes and the Li River, Guilin is a top destination for nature enthusiasts. The city's train station connects travelers to various scenic spots in the region.
10. Wuhan
A major transportation hub in central China, Wuhan is known for its universities, the Yellow Crane Tower, and the East Lake.
💖If you're curious about how to buy and use China train tickets, check the following articles to learn more:
Why is Traveling by Train Popular in China?
1. Extensive Network
China has one of the most extensive and rapidly expanding high-speed rail networks in the world. This makes it convenient for people to travel between major cities and regions quickly and efficiently.
2. Speed and Punctuality
China high-speed trains can reach speeds of up to 350 km/h (217 mph), significantly reducing travel times compared to conventional trains or long-distance buses. Additionally, trains in China are known for their punctuality.
3. Comfort and Convenience
Trains offer more legroom and comfort compared to other modes of transport like buses or domestic flights. Passengers can walk around, stretch their legs, and enjoy the onboard amenities.
4. Affordability
Train tickets are often more affordable than flights, especially when booked in advance. This makes train travel an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
5. Safety
Train travel is considered one of the safest modes of transportation, with a low accident rate compared to road travel.
6. Scenic Views
Trains offer the opportunity to see the countryside and landscapes of China, which can be a pleasant and scenic experience, especially on routes that pass through rural areas and natural scenery.
7. Accessibility
Train stations are usually located in or near city centers, making them easily accessible. This contrasts with airports, which are often situated on the outskirts of cities.
8. Avoiding Air Travel Hassles
Train travel avoids some of the inconveniences associated with air travel, such as long security lines, the need to arrive at the airport hours in advance, and potential flight delays or cancellations.
Trending Routes for China Railway Travel
Routes | Train Type | Travel Time | Train Price | Details |
Beijing-Shanghai | G | 4.5-6h | From $76.55 | |
D | 12h | From $43.75 | ||
Beijing-Guangzhou | G | 8-10h | From $119.25 | |
D | 10.5h | From $98.14 | ||
Shanghai-Kunming | G | 11-12h | From $121.68 | |
K | 35-36h | From $38.55 | ||
Guangzhou-Hong Kong | G | 1h | From $29.77 | |
Chengdu-Chongqing | G | 1.5-2h | From $18.00 | |
D | 2-3h | From $13.36 | ||
K | 4h | From $7.00 | ||
Shanghai-Hangzhou | G | 45 mins | From US$10.08 | |
D | 1h | From US$6.49 | ||
Beijing-Xi'an | G | 4.5 | From $66.63 | |
D | 11.5h | From $26.57 |
*The price varies depending on the exchange rate and date.
💖If you're curious about how to stay connected in Guilin, check out China eSIM and SIM Card!
Recommended Season for China Railway Travel
Traveling by train in China can be a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the country, as it boasts an extensive high-speed rail network that connects many major cities and regions. Here are some recommendations for China railway travel:
Season | Region | City Recommendations |
Spring (March to May) | Southern China | Cities like Guilin, Guangzhou, and Kunming have pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. |
Eastern China | Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou are famous for their beautiful gardens, which are particularly enchanting in spring. | |
Summer (June to August) | Northeastern China | Harbin, Changchun, and Shenyang are comfortable in summer. It’s a good time to explore the region. |
Northwestern China | Urumqi, Lanzhou, and Xi'an are interesting destinations with significant historical and cultural sites, though summer heat can be intense. | |
Autumn (September to November) | Northern China | Beijing, Tianjin, and Datong offer pleasant weather and less crowded tourist attractions. The Great Wall and the Forbidden City are particularly enjoyable with the cooler temperatures and autumn foliage. |
Central China | Wuhan, Changsha, and Zhengzhou have cooler and drier weather, making it a comfortable time to travel. | |
Winter (December to February) | Southern China | If you want to escape the cold, cities like Hong Kong, Macau, and Hainan are warmer and can be visited comfortably in winter. |
Northern China | For winter sports enthusiasts, traveling by train to ski resorts in Heilongjiang province, such as Yabuli, can be a unique experience. |
Explore China by Train now!
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✨China Mainland eSIM|China Mobile Unlimited 4G High Speed
🎁Trip.com hot deals for China travel
Flights & Hotels Deals: Up to 50% Off for Traveling to China
🙋Must-visit Attractions in China
Universal Beijing Resort Tickets with Discounts
Discounted Shanghai Disneyland Tickets
💓Discounted China One Day Tour
🌸Half-Day Tour of the Palace Museum
Beijing Forbidden City Half-Day Tour
12306 vs. Trip.com
When booking train tickets in China, travelers can choose between 12306, the official site of China Railway Corporation, and Trip.com, a reliable international travel agency. While 12306 allows users to book directly, it often experiences technical issues and offers support only in Chinese during limited hours. Conversely, Trip.com provides a user-friendly interface, multilingual 24/7 customer support, and accepts various payment methods, making it cheaper and more accessible for international travelers.
Feature | 12306 | Trip.com |
Booking Source | Official China Railway website | Best International travel agency |
Additional Fees | No extra fees | Possible extra fees |
Service Hours | 5 AM to 1 AM (11:30 PM on Thursdays) | 24/7 |
Website Reliability | Occasional errors and crashes | Stable and user-friendly |
Customer Service | Chinese only, limited hours | Multilingual, available 24/7 |
Payment Options | Limited to local methods | International credit cards, AliPay, WeChat Pay |
Additional Services | None | Hotels, flights, tours |
FAQs about China Railway Travel
How do I book train tickets in China?
Train tickets in China can be booked online through various platforms such as 12306.cn or trip.com, which is an international online travel agency that provides 24/7 customer service in various languages.Do I need to bring my passport when traveling by train in China?
Yes, a valid passport is required when purchasing a ticket and boarding the train.What is the difference between high-speed trains and regular trains in China?
High-speed trains (G and D series) in China can reach speeds of up to 350 km/h and offer a faster, more modern, and comfortable travel experience. Regular trains (Z, T, K series, etc.) travel at lower speeds and may not have all the amenities of high-speed trains.Is there a dining car on Chinese trains?
Most long-distance trains have a dining car where you can purchase meals. High-speed trains often have a snack cart that travels through the train, and they may also offer meal boxes.How do I find my train and carriage at the station?
Your ticket will have the train number and carriage number. Train stations have large departure boards that display train information. Look for your train number and follow the signs to the correct platform and carriage.