China High Speed Rail Map & China Train Map Guide

About China high speed rail map

Source: Wikipedia

China high speed rail map overview

China boasts one of the world's most extensive and advanced railway networks. As of 2024, China had spanned over 159,000 km (98,798 mi) of railways, making China's railway system the second-largest in the world by length.

By the end of 2023, China had more than 45,000 kilometres (27,962 miles) of high-speed rail, seamlessly linking bustling metropolises and scenic landscapes.

As you can see in the China high speed rail map, the network enables swift travel between major cities, with trains reaching speeds exceeding 350 kilometres per hour (217 mph) on dedicated tracks.

Future plans for China rail track expansion

China's ambitious plans for railway expansion continue to evolve. Future projects aim to enhance connectivity, reduce travel times, and support economic growth across the country.

By 2035, China plans to achieve a nationwide railway operational mileage of approximately 200,000 kilometres, with high-speed rail covering about 70,000 kilometres. Cities with populations exceeding 200,000 will have railway coverage, and cities with populations exceeding 500,000 will be accessible via high-speed rail.

Planned developments include extending high-speed rail to more cities, upgrading existing lines, and integrating rail networks with neighbouring countries as part of the Belt and Road Initiative. You will see an expansion version of China high speed rail map in the future.

List of China train lines

Check the most popular China high speed rail map of China train lines, including conventional and international lines.

China bullet train map

Source: Wikipedia

China's high-speed rail network is organised into a strategic framework known as the "Eight Verticals and Eight Horizontals".

As you can see in the China high speed rail map, this structure ensures comprehensive connectivity across the country, facilitating efficient travel and economic integration between major cities and regions.

• Eight vertical lines

• Eight horizontal lines

International China railway lines

Source: MDPI official

China's international railway lines serve as regional connectivity and economic integration. Spanning across Asia and extending into Europe, these railways enhance trade efficiency, reduce transportation times, and promote cultural exchange between China and neighbouring countries.

Here are some popular international China train routes from the China high speed rail map.

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China high speed rail map: Popular China railway route

China's railway system offers scenic and efficient routes that cater to diverse travel interests:

1. Beijing to Shanghai

The Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway is one of China's busiest and most popular. Connecting the capital city Beijing with the financial hub Shanghai, this route covers approximately 1,318 kilometres and takes about 4.5 hours.

Source: Wikipedia

2. Beijing to Guangzhou

The Beijing-Guangzhou high-speed railway connects Beijing in the north with the southern metropolis of Guangzhou. Spanning approximately 2,298 kilometres, and typically complete the journey in around 8 hours.

Source: Wikipedia

3. Shanghai to Hangzhou

The Shanghai-Hangzhou railway route links the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai with the historic city of Hangzhou, famed for its West Lake and traditional Chinese gardens. High-speed trains complete the journey in about 1 hour.

Source: Wikipedia

4. Xi'an to Chengdu

The Xi'an-Chengdu railway route spans the historic city of Xi'an, known for the Terracotta Warriors, to Chengdu, famous for its spicy Sichuan cuisine and Giant Panda. It take 3-4.5 hours of the whole journey.

Source: China Discovery official

5. Chengdu to Lhasa

The Chengdu-Lhasa railway route crosses rugged terrain and mountain ranges to reach the mystical Tibetan. This route spans over 3,000 kilometres and takes about 35 hours, including the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

Source: Travel Tibet China official

6. Guangzhou to Shenzhen

The Guangzhou to Shenzhen railway route connects two major economic hubs in the Guangdong Province. The distance between Guangzhou and Shenzhen by railway is approximately 147 kilometres. High-speed trains on this route typically complete the journey in about 30-40 minutes.

Source: Wikipedia

Plan your China railway travel with Trip.com

Planning a railway journey in China is convenient with Trip.com, where you can book tickets, check schedules, and explore your China travel across the vast railway network. Whether you're travelling for business or leisure, Trip.com ensures a seamless booking experience.