China's rail network links vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural wonders, offering a new way to discover the charms of this vast and colorful country. China's high-speed railways have become the preferred choice of many tourists and businessmen for their convenience, comfort and high speed. Hills will provide a practical guide to help you experience this modern and convenient mode of transportation smoothly. 

As a major transportation hub in China with several high-speed rail stations, Shanghai is a key hub connecting all major cities in China.

Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (上海虹桥站)

This is the largest high-speed railway station in Shanghai, located in the west of the city and very close to Hongqiao International Airport. Hongqiao Station mainly sends trains to the Yangtze River Delta region and other big cities in China, such as Beijing, Nanjing, Hangzhou and Hefei.

Shanghai Railway Station（上海站）

This is another major high-speed railway station in the center of Shanghai, mainly responsible for high-speed railways to the north and the west, such as Beijing, Zhengzhou, Chengdu and so on. Compared with Hongqiao Station, Shanghai Station is closer to the city center.

When you take the high-speed train in Shanghai, you can buy tickets through the following ways:

-12306 official website or APP: Purchase high-speed railway tickets through 12306 official website (www.12306.cn) or 12306 official APP. Choose the English interface when registering and enter your passport information to complete your ticket purchase.

-Station Ticket Window: You can go to the ticket window of Shanghai's high-speed rail stations, most of which have a special window for foreign tourists and provide English service. You need to bring your passport as identification when purchasing.

-Self-service ticket machines: Shanghai's high-speed rail stations are equipped with self-service ticket machines, which support English operation interface.

Besides, you can also choose the ticket booking service provided by Hills.

Train number information: the ticket will indicate the train number, departure time, seat number and other information.

G ( Gaosu ) : High-speed motorized trains, the fastest and suitable for long-distance travel.

D (Dongche）: dynamic trains, slightly slower than G head, suitable for short and medium distance travel.

C (Chenji Dongche): Intercity trains, suitable for short-distance travel.

G trains offer three classes of seating (Business, First and Second Class), while the remaining train types (D and C) offer two main classes of seating (First and Second Class).

-Business Seat: Suitable for business people with comfortable and spacious seats.

-First Class Seat: Offers more spacious seating and is suitable for long distance

travel.

-Second class seat: most common, affordable and suitable for most passengers.

-Is there any catering service on high-speed trains?

Food is served in the dining car, which is car number 9 on regular trains and usually car number 5 on high-speed trains. Carts selling snacks and beverages often travel between cars. You may want to consider bringing your own food, as there are not many options for Chinese food.

-How can I transfer to other transportation from Shanghai High Speed Rail Station?

 Shanghai's high-speed rail stations are usually directly connected to the subway, bus and cab systems.

Shanghai Hongqiao Station: connected to Hongqiao Airport and Metro Line 2 and Line 10, convenient for you to transfer to another plane or to the city.

Shanghai Station: Connected to Metro Line 1 and Line 3 for easy transportation.

-Are there any special services for foreigners on Shanghai's high-speed trains?

:Shanghai's high-speed rail stations provide barrier-free access and services. In addition, there are special windows for foreign travelers in the stations. Staff will provide extra help if needed.

Driving time: about 30-40 minutes (high speed train)

As a world cultural heritage, Suzhou is famous for its exquisite gardens and classical water town scenery. You can feel the unique flavor of Jiangnan water town in the Humble Administrator's Garden, Lion Grove and other gardens. Suzhou also has typical ancient water towns such as Zhouzhuang and Tongli, making it a great place to explore traditional culture and natural beauty.

Driving distance: about 1 hour (high speed train)

Hangzhou is a famous historical and cultural city in China, famous for its West Lake. The beauty of West Lake is suitable for all seasons, with willow drooping in spring, lotus in summer, and the best time to enjoy the scenery in fall and winter. You can stroll along the West Lake, take a boat ride, or explore the Lingyin Temple, Leifeng Pagoda and other cultural relics.

Travel time: about 1 hour 30 minutes (high speed train)

Nanjing is the ancient capital of six dynasties in China, with a long history and deep cultural heritage. Nanjing's night view of the Qinhuai River and the ancient neighborhood of Fuzhimiao are great places to experience the city's charm.

Driving distance: about 1 hour (high speed train)

Wuxi has the magnificent Taihu Lake with picturesque lakes and mountains. Lingshan Buddha is one of the symbols of Wuxi, while Huishan Ancient Town and Nanchang Street are full of ancient Jiangnan water town atmosphere. Wuxi is also the famous silk town of China, where you can experience the unique silk culture.

Whether you're arriving in Shanghai for the first time or planning to explore the surrounding cities, the high-speed train is your ticket to an exciting journey ahead!