Travel Guide · Transport · 01
High-Speed Rail
China's high-speed rail is the largest and one of the most efficient networks on earth. It is also, often, the most beautiful way to cross the country.
China's high-speed rail is the largest and one of the most efficient networks on earth. It is also, often, the most beautiful way to cross the country.
40,000 km of high-speed rail, and growing.
China's HSR network spans more than 40,000 km — longer than the rest of the world combined. Trains run on time, stations are clean and spacious, and the experience is closer to short-haul aviation than to traditional rail. The fastest services cruise at 350 km/h, which is faster than you can comfortably read.
For most retreat itineraries, the train is the right choice. It is the right choice ecologically, scenically (the Hangzhou–Huangshan line alone is worth the ticket), and often the right choice for time — city-centre to city-centre in three hours beats door-to-door flying.
A short practical guide.
The standard for most domestic travellers. Comfortable, four-across, generous legroom. Excellent value.
Three-across on one side, two on the other. Reclining seats, more space, a small meal often included on longer routes.
Lie-flat pods on most new lines. Premium service, lounge access at major stations, meals served at your seat. For the longer overnighters it is genuinely restful.
Use Trip.com (English, accepts international cards) or 12306.cn (official, Chinese-only). Book 1–2 weeks ahead for weekends and holidays.
A calm walk-through.
Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure. Stations are large, well-signed in English and Chinese, and orderly. Passport is required for ticket collection and at the gate. Security and ticket check happen twice: once before the waiting area, once at the platform.
On board, the train is a calm, quiet space. Hot water is freely available (bring a thermos or instant tea). Food trolleys pass through; in-seat meals can be ordered via a QR code on long-distance services. Most journeys of three hours or less do not need food at all — simply enjoy the view.
Tell us your route — we will book the right class, the right seat, and the right scenic line.