5 Best Trains in China for your travel

Your Guide to the best trains

If you’re planning a trip to China, one of the best ways to explore this vast and beautiful country is by train. China’s railway system is not just efficient; it’s an experience in itself. Whether you’re zipping through futuristic cities at 350 km/h on a bullet train or leisurely soaking in stunning landscapes from a traditional sleeper train, there’s something for every traveler.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best trains in China for different travel styles—so you can pick the perfect ride for your adventure!

1. The Speed Lovers: High-Speed Bullet Trains (G and D Trains)

China’s high-speed rail network is nothing short of amazing. With thousands of kilometers of track covering major cities and even remote regions, these trains redefine convenience. If you’re short on time but want to see as much as possible, this is your best bet!

Best High-Speed Trains:

• Beijing–Shanghai (G1-G22 Trains): This is one of the most popular routes, connecting two major cities in just about 4.5 hours. It’s comfortable, smooth, and perfect for business travelers or tourists who want to maximize their time.
• Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong Express (Vibrant Express): Ideal for travelers heading into Hong Kong, this train gets you from Guangzhou to Hong Kong in just under an hour.
• Chengdu–Xi’an (G and D Trains): If you want to visit the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an after seeing Chengdu’s pandas, this route is an easy and fast choice.

2. The Scenic Explorers: Overnight and Slow Trains (Z, T, and K Trains)

Not all travel needs to be fast-paced. If you love train journeys that let you take in the scenery, overnight and slow trains are for you. These old-school trains are budget-friendly and a great way to experience China like a local.

Best Scenic and Sleeper Trains:

• Beijing–Lhasa (Z21 Train, The Sky Train to Tibet): This is one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world! Traveling through the Tibetan Plateau at an altitude of over 5,000 meters, you’ll see snow-capped peaks, vast grasslands, and yaks roaming freely.
• Kunming–Dali (K9616 Train): A short but scenic ride through Yunnan’s picturesque mountains, this train is a great alternative to the bus for travelers heading to the stunning city of Dali.
• Harbin–Mohe (K7039 Train, The Arctic Train): If you love winter and adventure, take this train to Mohe, China’s northernmost city, to see the breathtaking aurora borealis in the winter months.

3. The Luxury Travelers: Soft Sleepers and Business Class Trains

If comfort is your top priority, China has you covered with luxurious train options. Many high-speed and overnight trains offer soft sleepers, while premium high-speed trains have business class seats that rival first-class airline cabins.

Best Luxury Train Experiences:

• Beijing–Shanghai (G1 Train, Business Class): This train route offers business class seating that’s spacious, ultra-comfortable, and even has a lie-flat bed—perfect for travelers who want to arrive refreshed.
• Shanghai–Lhasa (Z164 Train, Soft Sleeper): For a truly unforgettable journey to Tibet, book a soft sleeper cabin. The private compartments offer cozy beds, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of Qinghai-Tibet landscapes.
• Guilin–Guangzhou (D Trains, First Class): If you’re heading to the famous karst mountains in Guilin, splurge on a first-class seat for extra legroom and a quieter ride.

4. The Budget Travelers: Hard Seats and Second-Class High-Speed Trains

If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry—China’s train system still offers plenty of affordable options. Hard seats on traditional trains and second-class seats on high-speed trains are great for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a little less legroom.

Best Budget Train Rides:

• Shanghai–Hangzhou (G Trains, Second Class): This short, 45-minute journey is super affordable and perfect for a day trip.
• Beijing–Qingdao (D Trains, Second Class): Want to visit China’s famous coastal city? The second-class seats are budget-friendly while still being comfy.
• Chengdu–Kunming (K Trains, Hard Seat): If you don’t mind a long ride, this route is one of the most affordable ways to travel across southwestern China.

5. The Nostalgic Travelers: Steam and Tourist Trains

For train enthusiasts and history lovers, China has a few special trains that take you back in time. Some still run on steam, while others are designed for scenic sightseeing experiences.

Best Nostalgic Train Journeys:

• Jiayang Steam Train (Sichuan Province): This is one of the last remaining narrow-gauge steam trains in the world. It’s a great experience for train lovers and history buffs.
• Dunhuang Sightseeing Train: This train takes travelers through the mystical desert landscapes of Dunhuang, famous for its sand dunes and Mogao Caves.
• Huangshan Tourist Train: Heading to the breathtaking Yellow Mountain? This scenic train is a charming way to reach one of China’s most famous natural wonders.

Final Tips for Train Travel in China

• Book Tickets in Advance: Trains in China, especially high-speed ones, sell out quickly! Use official railway websites or apps like 12306 China Railway.
• Pack Snacks and Entertainment: While trains have dining options, it’s always good to bring your own snacks, a book, or download movies for the journey.
• Learn Basic Chinese Phrases: Not all railway staff speak English, so learning phrases like “Where is my seat?” (我的座位在哪里? Wǒ de zuòwèi zài nǎlǐ?) can be helpful.
• Check Luggage Allowances: High-speed trains have strict baggage limits, while slower trains allow for larger suitcases.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a luxury traveler, or a budget backpacker, there’s a train in China that fits your style. With a network that connects almost every corner of the country, trains offer a comfortable, scenic, and efficient way to explore China. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider hopping on a train and experiencing the magic of rail travel in one of the world’s most fascinating countries!

Happy travels!