The Beijing-Shanghai Railway, also known as the Jinghu Railway, stands as one of China's busiest, crucial, and immensely popular rail connections. Its route originates in Beijing and gracefully traverses major cities such as Tianjin, Jinan, Nanjing, and Suzhou before reaching its final destination in Shanghai. Offering an extensive service, there are a total of 48 pairs of high-speed trains operating between Beijing and Shanghai. Three pairs of them are overnight trains.
Notably, the journey between Beijing and Shanghai on the fastest trains G21 can be completed in an impressive time of 4 hours and 18 minutes, covering the 1,318-kilometer ride. Moreover, for those seeking a distinct experience, there are three overnight high-speed trains available between Beijing and Shanghai. These trains provide passengers with a delightful opportunity to unwind and enjoy an unforgettable sleeping experience aboard a high-speed train.
Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Train
- Distance: 1,318 kilometers (819 miles)
- Duration: 4 to 6 hours
- Number of trains: 44 pairs daytime G-category trains and 3 pairs of overnight D-category trains
- Terminals: Beijing South Station, Beijing Railway Station, Shanghai Hongqiao Station, Shanghai Railway Station
Beijing to Shanghai railway map and attractions in major pass-by citiesBeijing to Shanghai High-Speed Train Schedules
(Updated on March 5th, 2025)
| Beijing South Station to Shanghai Hongqiao Station | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Train Number | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| G103 | 06:20 | 11:58 | 5h 38m |
| G111 | 08:16 | 14:11 | 5h 55m |
| G5 | 09:00 | 13:37 | 4h 37m |
| G7 | 10:00 | 14:35 | 4h 35m |
| G9 | 11:00 | 15:37 | 4h 37m |
| G25 | 18:04 | 22:58 | 4h 54m |
| Beijing South Station to Shanghai Station | |||
| Train Number | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| G1 | 07:00 | 11:29 | 4h 29m |
| G13 | 13:00 | 17:35 | 4h 35m |
| G23 | 18:00 | 22:43 | 4h 43m |
| G27 | 19:00 | 23:35 | 4h 35m |
Trains listed in the table are the fastest ones from Beijing to Shanghai. There are 44 daytime bullet trains in total running between these two cities, departing from 06:20 to 19:00.
Shanghai to Beijing High-Speed Train Schedules
(Updated on March 5th, 2025)
| Shanghai Hongqiao Station to Beijing South Station | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Train Number | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| G104 | 06:27 | 13:12 | 6h 45m |
| G6 | 08:00 | 12:24 | 4h 24m |
| G8 | 09:00 | 13:27 | 4h 28m |
| G10 | 10:00 | 14:26 | 4h 26m |
| G12 | 11:00 | 15:31 | 4h 31m |
| G22 | 16:00 | 20:37 | 4h 37m |
| Shanghai Station to Beijing South Station | |||
| Train Number | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| G2 | 07:00 | 11:36 | 4h 36m |
| G128 | 11:15 | 17:22 | 4h 45m |
| G14 | 11:53 | 16:38 | 4h 45m |
| G16 | 12:55 | 17:36 | 4h 41m |
| G26 | 17:55 | 22:36 | 4h 41m |
Trains listed in the table are the fastest ones from Shanghai to Beijing. There are 41 daytime bullet trains in total running between these two cities, departing from 06:27 to 18:52.
Beijing-Shanghai Daytime High-Speed Train Ticket Prices
| Business Class | First Class | Second Class |
|---|---|---|
| US$321 (CNY2,318) | US$144 (CNY1,035) | US$87 (CNY626) |
Beijing-Shanghai Overnight Trains
- Number of trains: Four pairs of overnight trains
- Shortest duration: 12 hours 3 minutes
- Terminals: Beijing Railway Station, Beijing Fengtai Station, Beijing South Station, Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Station
Beijing to Shanghai Overnight Train Schedules
(Updated on March 5th, 2025)
| Train Number | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| D7 | 19:22 | 07:25 (next day) | 12h 3m |
| D9 | 19:36 | 07:46 (next day) | 12h 10m |
| T109 | 20:03 | 11:02 (next day) | 14h 59m |
| D5 | 21:21 | 09:27 (next day) | 12h 6m |
Shanghai to Beijing Overnight Train Schedules
(Updated on March 5th, 2025)
| Train Number | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| T110 | 16:30 | 08:32 (next day) | 16h 2m |
| D18 | 18:42 | 07:09 (next day) | 12h 27m |
| D8 | 19:08 | 07:22 (next day) | 12h 14m |
| D10 | 21:05 | 09:24 (next day) | 12h 19m |
| D6 | 21:15 | 09:26 (next day) | 12h 11m |
Beijing-Shanghai Overnight Train Ticket Fares
| Train Types | Soft sleeper | Hard sleeper | Hard seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal Trains | US$66 (CNY476.5) | US$42 (CNY304.5) | US$25 (CNY177.5) |
| D Trains | US$77 (CNY558) | US$61 (CNY440) | US$41 (CNY293) |
Train Types and Seat Classes
Beijing-Shanghai Daytime Bullet Train
1. Among all daytime bullet trains, the Fuxinghao stands out as the fastest one, capable of reaching a remarkable speed of 400 km/h (249 miles per hour). Its exceptional velocity makes it the fastest passenger train globally. Consequently, tickets for G trains, including the Fuxinghao, are priced at a premium, reflecting their superior speed and advanced technology.
2. G trains have three classes of seat: business class, first class and second class.
- Second class is the most affordable option on a high-speed train, equipped with rows of 5 seats (3+2). While some passengers may find the space a bit limited, it still offers a decent travel experience.
- First class provides a more spacious environment compared to second class, featuring rows of 4 seats (2+2). This class is priced higher than second class since it offers increased comfort and roominess.
- For those seeking utmost comfort and luxury, business class is the premium choice on a high-speed train. With rows of 3 leather seats (1+2), this class allows passengers to recline their seats into a flat bed, providing a truly indulgent experience. However, due to its exclusive amenities, business class is also the most expensive among the available classes.
First-class seats on Beijing to Shanghai Train G21Beijing-Shanghai Overnight Bullet Train
1. Overnight bullet trains offer a convenient, efficient, and comfortable travel option. These state-of-the-art trains provide a fast and modern experience, allowing you to reach your destination quickly. By traveling at night, they not only save you the cost of a hotel room but also maximize your daytime for sightseeing and exploration.
2. The soft sleeper cabins on bullet trains offer a luxurious and peaceful environment, ensuring a comfortable journey. Each private compartment contains four berths, two upper and two lower, with a lockable door for added privacy and security. While the lower berth is more expensive, both options provide a cozy setting complemented by a pillow, sheet, and blanket.
3. Overnight high-speed trains also offer second-class seats, presenting a budget-friendly alternative to sleeper cabins. Although these seats don't provide the same level of comfort as sleepers, they are a more affordable option. However, it's important to note that sitting in a chair for an extended journey can be tiring, so this choice might not be ideal for long trips.
Beijing-Shanghai Non-Bullet Overnight Train
Normal-speed overnight trains are comparatively slower than bullet trains, and their facilities may be slightly outdated. However, these trains offer cheaper ticket fares, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
Also read How to Choose Between Train Types and Seat Classes in China.
Beijing to Shanghai, by Train or Plane?
Between Beijing and Shanghai, which means of transportation is better, by high-speed train or plane?
Quick Facts
| Plane | Bullet Train | |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket Price | US$83 (CNY600) for economy class; US$370 (CNY2,680) for business class |
US$87 (CNY626) for second class; US$144 (CNY1,035) for first class |
| Duration | 2-2.5 hours | 4.5-6 hours |
| Total Travel Time | 6 hours | 4.5-8 hours |
| Punctuality | Sometimes there are delays | Punctual |
Conclusion:
Price - The cost of air travel between Beijing and Shanghai is steadily decreasing as more travelers recognize the convenience and comfort offered by high-speed train journeys over flights. With an increasing number of high-speed trains becoming operational, airlines are compelled to lower their prices to remain competitive against China Railway.
Total Travel Time - Unlike airports, which are typically located far from city centers, many train stations, including Beijing and Shanghai Railway stations, are situated within urban areas. This advantageous proximity allows many tourists to easily access train stations on foot from their hotels, or vice versa, significantly reducing transit time compared to airport commutes.
Punctuality - Official statistics reveal that approximately 20% of domestic flights experienced delays throughout 2023. These frequent delays contribute to the overall slower travel time of flight journeys compared to the punctuality of bullet train services.
Read more information about Beijing to Shanghai by Train or Plane?