China high-speed rail, explained in English
Times, fares, stations and step-by-step booking for every major route — built for tourists and business travelers, not ticket sellers.
Popular: Beijing–Shanghai · Shanghai–Hangzhou · Beijing–Xi'an
Popular routes
All routes →Major stations
All stations →First time on a Chinese train?
All guides →Start here. Everything a foreign visitor needs to book, board, and ride with confidence.
The two ways foreigners book China high-speed train tickets — Trip.com in English or the official 12306 app — plus when tickets go on sale.
How boarding works at China high-speed rail stations as a foreigner — security, finding your gate, and scanning your passport to board.
Second, First, and Business Class on China's high-speed trains — seat layout, legroom, price, and which one is worth it for your trip.
What the G, D and C letters mean on China's high-speed trains — speed, comfort, and how to read a Chinese train number when booking.
Why China Rail Guide?
Written for visitors, not translated from ticketing screens. Plain answers to real travel questions.
Every route and station on one page — times, fares, classes, and exactly which station you use.
We're not a ticket seller. Booking links are clearly marked, and the guidance comes first.