Traveling by train in China is a cost-effective, comfortable, and safe mode of transportation. The train cabins are well-maintained and equipped with comfortable seating arrangements, allowing passengers to relax during their journey. With its increasing popularity, understanding the basics of train travel in China will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
What are the Chinese Trains Like?
Generally speaking, the trains in China are classified into high-speed trains and ordinary trains. What are the differences between them? What are the seats and facilities on Chinese trains? Click the links below and get to know what the Chinese trains are like.
Why Traveling by Train?
Trains leave and arrive on schedule, and there are seldom any delays, especially for D-trains and G-trains. It is very convenient for passengers to switch to other means of transport at railway stations in the major cities, including metro lines, buses, taxis, and coaches. It offers passengers a unique way to explore China when they can appreciate the fine views along their journey through the train windows, which is very different from traveling by air. The train offers more legroom and you can walk around to stretch your leg on the train.
Planning Your Train Travel
Chinese train is not only a convenient transportation when traveling in China, but also a unique experience. You will get a basic idea on how to arrange your train travel in China by reading the articles below.
Popular Train Routes
Below are brief introductions to the train stations and train schedules in main cities.
- Beijing - Xi'an
- Beijing - Shanghai
- Beijing - Guangzhou
- Beijing - Guilin
- Beijing - Badaling Great Wall
- Beijing - Tianjin
- Beijing - Hong Kong
- Guangzhou - Hong Kong
- Guangzhou - Guilin/Yangshuo
- Guangzhou - Sanya
- Guangzhou - Wuhan
- Guangzhou - Shenzhen
Popular International Train Routes
China Train Schedule
Below are brief introductions to the train stations and train schedules in the main cities.
Recommended Months for Train Travel in China
Generally speaking, it is suitable to travel around China throughout the year due to its varieties of climate and rich tourist resources in different months. The best time for train travel depends on the train routes you plan to take.
- From April to June: It is a comfortable time to travel to China from April to June as the weather is not too cold or too hot in most Chinese cities. Train tickets are easy to get except during the holidays below.
- From July to August: It is the hottest time of the year. And it is the peak season with the students out of school. However, it is the best time to visit Tibet. Train tickets to Lhasa are very popular and are always sold out during this time.
- From September to October: It is the most comfortable period of the year, not too cold in the north and not too hot in the south, with limited rainy days. Train tickets are hard to get during the National Holiday from September 30th to October 7th.
- From November to March: This is the off-season of the year. Weather is bitterly cold in the north and warm in the far south. Most of the train stations become incredibly busy and crowded during the winter holiday from late January to early February
However, it is also wise to avoid traveling by train during peak times, as train tickets will be hard to book or purchase. The peak times include:
- Chinese New Year: End of January or early in February
- Tomb Sweeping Festival: April 4th/5th
- Labor Day: May 1st to 3rd
- Dragon Boat Festival: Middle of June
- Mid-Autumn Festival: Middle or end of September
- National Day: October 1st to 7th
Read more about China Public Schedule.
