Train Travel in China: a Complete Guide
China boasts one of the world’s largest and busiest rail networks, connecting nearly every city and town. Traveling by train is not only safe and affordable but also an experience worth enjoying on its own.
Different Types of Trains in China
In China, passenger trains are identified by specific letters and/or numbers, with each category representing a different class of service.
G Train
The fastest high-speed EMU bullet train, operating on newly built high-speed railways at speeds of up to 350 km/h.
Note: Train models and interior designs may vary by city.
C Train
An intercity high-speed train running between major cities, such as Beijing and Tianjin. Its speed is comparable to that of the G train.
D Train
A high-speed MU (Multiple Unit) bullet train with a maximum speed of 250 km/h, generally used for shorter routes (around 200 km). Some longer-distance routes are also available.
Z Train
An overnight express service with few or no stops along the way.
T Train
An extra-fast express running on most rail lines across China, stopping only at major stations. It is slightly slower than the Z train due to more frequent stops.
D train of China
The second class seats of the D train
A toilet on a D train
How to take the train if I book a trip through Abztrip?
1. Get the Ticket
If you book your train ticket through Abztrip, it will be issued 3–10 days before departure, based on your travel itinerary. Your local guide will hand the ticket to you, and both the guide and driver will escort you to the railway station on time.
2. Arrive at the Railway Station
Your guide will accompany you to the security check and explain how to board the train.
3. Locate the Waiting Room
Once inside the station, check the electronic departure boards to find the correct waiting room for your train.
4. Enter the Platform
When boarding begins, queue up and pass through the ticket barrier. At this point, you need to present both your ticket and passport. Boarding stops about 5–10 minutes before departure when the barrier closes.
5. Board the Train
Your train and carriage numbers are clearly marked on the outside of the train. Simply find your carriage and show your ticket to the railway staff stationed at the door.
6. Prepare to Get Off
Pay attention to the station announcements or ask the attendant if you’re unsure. Gather your belongings in advance, but there’s no need to hurry.
7. Exit the Train and Station
After leaving the train, follow the crowd toward the exit, which may involve walking over or under the tracks. Your local guide will meet you at the designated exit.
Recommended Train Routes
*For detailed information on distances and travel times, please consult your travel consultant.
| G Train | |||
| Departure City | Arrival City | Running Time | Distance(KM) |
| Beijing | Shanghai | 5h30m | 1318 |
| Beijing | Xian | 5h40m | 1216 |
| Beijing | Taiyuan | 2h52m | 505 |
| Shanghai | Hangzhou | 1h10m | 162 |
| Shanghai | Wuhan | 4h56m | 811 |
| Xian | Luoyang | 1h44m | 387 |
| D Train | |||
| Departure City | Arrival City | Running Time | Distance(KM) |
| Chengdu | Chongqing | 2h10m | 313 |
| T Train | |||
| Departure City | Arrival City | Running Time | Distance(KM) |
| Lhasa | Beijing | 42h31m | 3761 |
Tips on traveling to China by train?
Soft Sleeper
Soft sleepers are an excellent choice for overnight train journeys, offering a generally quiet environment. Each air-conditioned soft sleeper carriage has comfortable 4-berth compartments (two upper and two lower bunks) with full bedding provided. Compartments are shared with other passengers unless you book all four bunks. Every soft sleeper carriage includes a shared washroom and toilet, but no shower facilities.
Deluxe Soft Sleeper
For couples or travelers seeking greater privacy and comfort, the deluxe soft sleeper is highly recommended. Available on K, T, Z, L, and some overnight D trains, it costs nearly twice as much as a standard soft sleeper. Each private, lockable compartment features two beds (one upper, one lower), along with a sofa, table, and closet. Clean bathroom facilities are included, and some compartments are even equipped with an in-room sink and shower cubicle.
The interior of a deluxe soft sleeper compartment
Dining
On most trains, a dining car is located next to the soft sleeper carriage, and food trolleys also pass through during meal times. Only Chinese dishes are offered, with limited variety. Many local passengers prefer to bring their own food or purchase from platform vendors. We recommend preparing your own snacks or takeaway before boarding, as the onboard meals are usually not very appealing. Free boiled water and bottled water are available on the train.
Luggage Allowance & Porters
Each adult passenger may carry up to 20 kg of luggage, while the allowance for each child is 10 kg. The length of any single item cannot exceed 160 cm. Luggage should be stored on the overhead rack or under the bunk, not in the aisle. Porter services are available at a cost of about 20–30 CNY per piece.
*An attendant tidying the luggage rack above the seats
4. Ticket Exchange on Board
For soft sleeper passengers, the onboard conductor will exchange your ticket for a card. Shortly before reaching your destination, the conductor will return your ticket and remind you to prepare for arrival. Be sure to keep your ticket safe, as it must be presented when exiting the station.
5. Ticket Issuance & Peak Seasons
Train tickets are issued only 3–10 days before departure. Availability becomes especially limited during peak travel periods such as the Spring Festival (January or February) and the Golden Week holidays (Labor Day in early May and National Day in the first week of October). Tibet train tickets are in particularly high demand and usually require a higher booking fee.
If you’d like to include a rail experience in your China tour, feel free to contact us at agentsupport@abztrip.com.
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