City-to-city planning
China Route Matrix
Compare the complete journey, not only the scheduled train or flight time.
| From | To | Typical rail time | Planning choice | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | Xi'an | 4.5-5.5h | Train | City-center stations; usually better door to door |
| Beijing | Shanghai | 4.5-6.5h | Train | Rail is comfortable; fly only when schedules fit better |
| Shanghai | Hangzhou | 45-75m | Train | Frequent service; practical day-trip pair |
| Shanghai | Suzhou | 25-45m | Train | Frequent service from multiple Shanghai stations |
| Xi'an | Chengdu | 3-4.5h | Train | Direct and normally easier than flying |
| Guangzhou | Shenzhen | 30-75m | Train | Station choice matters more than train speed |
| Shenzhen | Hong Kong | 15-30m rail time | Train | Allow substantial time for border formalities |
| Guilin | Yangshuo | 25-40m rail time | Train/car | Yangshuo station still requires a local transfer |
| Chengdu | Chongqing | 1-2h | Train | One of China's easiest two-city rail combinations |
| Beijing | Guilin | 8h+ | Flight | Flying usually protects a sightseeing day |
| Shanghai | Chengdu | 10h+ | Flight | Choose rail only for a deliberate long journey |
| Xi'an | Zhangjiajie | Varies | Compare | Schedules change; compare full-day flight and rail options |
Planning ranges, not live timetables. Confirm the exact station, date and service on China Railway 12306 or the relevant airline before booking.