China has the world's largest high-speed rail network (45,000+ km), 240+ airports, and extensive metro systems in 40+ cities. This guide explains how to navigate all of it.
China's High-Speed Rail Network
China operates the world's largest and busiest high-speed rail (HSR) network, with over 45,000 km of track connecting virtually every major city. Trains run at 250-350 km/h, making them faster than flying for routes under 1,000 km. The Beijing-Shanghai line covers 1,318 km in 4.5 hours. Tickets go on sale 15 days before departure and sell out quickly during holidays (Spring Festival, National Day).
| Route | Distance | Duration | Frequency | Price (2nd Class) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing - Shanghai | 1,318 km | 4.5 hours | Every 15 min | ¥553 (~$77) |
| Beijing - Xi'an | 1,216 km | 4.5-6 hours | Every 30 min | ¥515 (~$72) |
| Shanghai - Hangzhou | 202 km | 45-60 min | Every 10 min | ¥73 (~$10) |
| Shanghai - Suzhou | 100 km | 25-30 min | Every 5 min | ¥40 (~$6) |
| Guangzhou - Shenzhen | 140 km | 35 min | Every 10 min | ¥75 (~$10) |
| Chengdu - Chongqing | 308 km | 1-1.5 hours | Every 20 min | ¥154 (~$21) |
How to Buy Train Tickets
There are three main ways to purchase high-speed train tickets in China. The official booking site is 12306.cn (or the 12306 app), but it requires a Chinese ID or passport registration. For foreign travelers, Trip.com (formerly Ctrip) is the most convenient option — it supports English, foreign credit cards, and charges a small booking fee.
| Method | Pros | Cons | Booking Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12306.cn (official) | Lowest price, no fee | Chinese interface, Chinese ID preferred | None |
| Trip.com | English, foreign cards, easy | Slightly higher price | ¥20-30/ticket |
| Travel agency / hotel | No tech needed | Higher markup | ¥50-100/ticket |
| Station ticket window | No booking fee | Long lines, language barrier | None |
Q.What are the different train classes in China?
High-speed trains (G/D trains) offer: Second Class (2+3 seating, most popular, ~$70-80 for Beijing-Shanghai), First Class (2+2 seating, ~50% more expensive), and Business Class (2+1 reclining seats, ~3x price). Regular trains (Z/T/K) have Hard Seat, Hard Sleeper, Soft Sleeper, and Deluxe Sleeper compartments.
Q.Do I need to print my train ticket?
No. Since 2020, China uses e-tickets for high-speed rail. Your passport IS your ticket. Simply scan your passport at the ticket gate. For regular trains, you may still need to collect a paper ticket at the station.
Domestic Flights in China
China has 240+ commercial airports. Domestic flights are affordable ($50-200 per segment) and practical for long distances (over 800 km). Major airlines include Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, and Spring Airlines (budget carrier). Flights can be booked via Trip.com, Qunar, or airline websites.
| Route | Flight Time | Typical Price | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing - Guilin | 3 hours | $80-150 | 3-5 daily |
| Shanghai - Chengdu | 3 hours | $70-130 | 10+ daily |
| Beijing - Lhasa | 4.5 hours | $150-250 | 2-3 daily |
| Guangzhou - Xi'an | 2.5 hours | $60-120 | 5-8 daily |
| Shanghai - Kunming | 3.5 hours | $80-140 | 8+ daily |
City Transportation: Subways, Taxis, and Ride-Hailing
China's major cities have extensive metro systems. Beijing (27 lines), Shanghai (20 lines), Guangzhou (16 lines), and Shenzhen (16 lines) have some of the world's largest subway networks. Fares are ¥2-10 ($0.30-$1.40) per ride. Most systems accept WeChat/Alipay QR codes or transport cards. Taxis are metered and inexpensive (¥13-18 starting fare). Ride-hailing via DiDi (China's Uber) is the most convenient option for foreigners.
| Transport | Cost | Convenience | Foreigner-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway/Metro | ¥2-10 | Very convenient, fast | High (English signage in major cities) |
| Taxi | ¥13-18 start + ¥2-3/km | Moderate (language barrier) | Low (drivers rarely speak English) |
| DiDi (ride-hailing) | Similar to taxi | Very convenient | Medium (English interface available) |
| Public bus | ¥1-2 | Low (complex routes) | Low (Chinese-only signage) |
| Bike sharing | ¥1-2 per ride | High for short distances | Medium (requires Alipay/WeChat) |
Q.Can I use Uber in China?
No. Uber sold its China operations to DiDi in 2016. DiDi is now the dominant ride-hailing app in China. It has an English interface within the Alipay app, or you can download the standalone DiDi app. Payment is via Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Q.How do I use the subway as a foreigner?
Most major city metros have English station names and announcements. Buy a single-journey ticket at the station (touchscreen machines have English option) or use Alipay/WeChat to scan a QR code at the gate. Some cities (Beijing, Shanghai) offer tourist transport cards at airports.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Should I fly or take the train between Chinese cities?
For distances under 800 km (e.g., Beijing-Xi'an, Shanghai-Hangzhou), high-speed train is almost always better — faster door-to-door, more comfortable, and often cheaper. For longer distances (e.g., Beijing-Guilin, Shanghai-Chengdu), flying is usually more practical. The general rule: under 5 hours by train = take the train; over 5 hours = consider flying.
2.How early should I arrive at a Chinese train station?
Arrive 45-60 minutes before departure for major stations (Beijing South, Shanghai Hongqiao). Security checks and ticket gates close 5 minutes before departure. Bring your passport — it is your ticket. During holidays, arrive 90 minutes early.
3.Can I bring luggage on high-speed trains?
Yes. Each passenger can bring up to 20 kg of luggage (total dimensions under 130 cm for high-speed trains, 160 cm for regular trains). Overhead racks accommodate standard suitcases. Larger items can be stored at the end of each carriage. There are no liquid restrictions (unlike flights).
4.Is it safe to take overnight trains in China?
Yes. Overnight trains (Z/T category) with soft sleeper compartments are safe and comfortable. Each compartment has 4 berths with locking doors. They are popular with Chinese travelers and save on hotel costs. Book upper berths for a quieter, cheaper ride.