Quick Facts
About China High-Speed Railway (CRH)
China's high-speed railway (HSR) network is the largest and most rapidly expanded in the world. With over 45,000 km of high-speed track, it dwarfs every other nation's network combined. Trains regularly operate at 300-350 km/h, connecting virtually every major Chinese city with remarkable speed and efficiency. The system has transformed domestic travel in China, making 4-hour journeys between cities 1,000 km apart routine.
The network includes flagship routes like Beijing-Shanghai (4.5 hours, 1,318 km), Beijing-Guangzhou (8 hours, 2,298 km — the world's longest HSR line), and Shanghai-Kunming. China's Fuxing Hao trains are the fastest in regular commercial service worldwide, operating at 350 km/h on the Beijing-Shanghai route. The system carries over 2.5 billion passengers annually.
China has also pioneered maglev technology, with the Shanghai Maglev reaching 430 km/h on its airport line. The 600 km/h CRRC maglev prototype unveiled in 2021 could revolutionize future rail travel. For travelers, China's HSR offers Second Class, First Class, and Business Class, all with modern amenities including WiFi, power outlets, and spacious seating.
বাংলায় পড়ুন
চীনের হাই-স্পিড রেলওয়ে বিশ্বের বৃহত্তম, ৪৫,০০০ কিলোমিটারেরও বেশি ট্র্যাক রয়েছে। ৩৫০ কিমি/ঘন্টা গতিতে চলে। বেইজিং থেকে সাংহাই মাত্র ৪.৫ ঘন্টায় পৌঁছায়। বছরে ২.৫ বিলিয়নেরও বেশি যাত্রী এই সেবা ব্যবহার করে।
Highlights
- World's largest HSR network — 45,000+ km of high-speed track
- Fuxing Hao trains at 350 km/h — fastest commercial trains in the world
- Beijing to Shanghai in 4.5 hours (1,318 km)
- 2.5+ billion annual passengers
- Shanghai Maglev reaches 430 km/h
- Network built in just 15 years — an engineering marvel
How to Book
Book at 12306.cn (official site, Chinese interface) or through Trip.com for English booking. Tickets go on sale 15 days before departure. Passport required for foreigners.
Visit Official Booking Site →Travel Tips
- Book through Trip.com for English-language booking — 12306.cn is Chinese only
- Tickets sell out fast during Chinese New Year and Golden Week — book 15 days ahead
- Second Class is very comfortable — comparable to European First Class standards
- Bring your passport to the station — you need it to collect tickets
- Arrive 30 minutes early — stations are airport-sized with security screening
- Download the DiDi app for taxi connections from HSR stations to city centers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do foreigners book China high-speed train tickets?
The easiest way is through Trip.com, which offers English-language booking. You can also use the 12306.cn official website (Chinese interface). Bring your passport to collect tickets at the station.
How fast are China's bullet trains?
China's Fuxing Hao trains operate at 350 km/h on the Beijing-Shanghai route, making them the fastest commercial trains in the world. Most other high-speed services run at 250-300 km/h.
Is China's high-speed rail better than Japan's Shinkansen?
Both are world-class. China's network is far larger (45,000 km vs 3,000 km) and its fastest trains are faster (350 vs 320 km/h). Japan's Shinkansen has a longer safety record and greater punctuality. Both offer excellent comfort and service.
