China Train Schedule 2026: Book Tickets for Train Travel

Travelling by train is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to explore China, because China has an extensive rail network. Check this guide for how China train schedule, how China’s train system works, the different types of trains available, and popular routes.

How China Train System Work?

Source: CNN official

There are multiple train types in the China train system. Here are the primary types:

China high-speed trains (G, D, C)

• G Trains (Gaotie): Gaotie is the fastest train with speeds up to 350 km/h (217 mph), primarily for long-distance and major cities.
• D Trains: High-speed trains at lower speeds than G trains, suitable for medium to long-distance routes, with speeds up to 250 km/h (155 mph)
• C Trains: High-speed trains operating on short-distance routes between nearby cities.

China speed trains (Z, T, K)

• Z Trains: "Zhida" or direct express trains, primarily operating between major cities.
• T Trains: "Tekuai" or express trains, slower than Z trains, stopping at more stations.
• K Trains: "Kuaisu" or fast trains, slower than both Z and T trains, stopping at more stations and small cities.

High-speed trains have amenities like spacious seats, clean restrooms, power outlets, and even Wi-Fi on some routes. Speed trains offer more kinds of seats, such as soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and hard seat.

China Train Schedule for Popular Routes

Source: CNN official

Here’s a comprehensive look at a few popular routes, showing the different types of trains along with travel times, frequency and price.

China High Speed Train Schedule for Popular Routes

Source: CNN official

Here you can find the China high speed train schedule of the popular routes.

China Speed Train Schedule for Popular Routes

Source: CNN official

Here is the China speed train schedule of some popular routes.

Popular China Train Route Schedule

This table provides popular train routes in China, highlighting the convenience of the best route and train type to suit their needs. Feel free to use this information to plan your travels effectively across China.

Tips on Reading China train Schedule

China train schedules are informative, and typically displayed in both Chinese and English at major stations. Here’s how to read them:

• Train number: Unique number prefixed by a letter indicating its type (e.g., G1234, D5678).
• Departure/arrival time: Clearly listed in 24-hour format.
• Station names: Major stations listed in both Chinese characters and Pinyin.
• Seat: Information on available seat classes (e.g., second class, first class).

If you're planning a trip across China, travelling by train is your best option to explore different cities. If you encounter any issues at the station, feel free to ask the station staff for assistance.