How to get from Beijing to Shanghai by bullet train?

September 30, 2025

Traveling to Beijing – Shanghai by train, why not, how to get from Beijing to shanghai by high speed train (Beijing to shanghai by bullet train) and how long is the train from Beijing to Shanghai? Let’s discover with Living Nomads the secret to traveling by train from Beijing to Shanghai extremely quickly and conveniently!

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Shanghai -Beijing bullet train. source: wikimedia | beijing to shanghai by bullet train

Can you believe that in less than half a day, with a Beijing – Shanghai train, you will be in the remaining city without having to worry about long waiting times or long distance travel? Although the plane only takes 2.5 hours to fly, but if you count the time for check-in, security check, waiting and moving to the airport, the high-speed train saves a lot of time. Not to mention, the train takes you straight to the city center, without having to waste time taking a taxi or train from the airport to the city center.

This article will reveal everything you need to know to have a smooth trip between the two most vibrant cities in China!

Beijing – Shanghai Train Travel Time and Distance

Shanghai to Beijing train

The journey from Beijing to Shanghai by high-speed train is 1,318 km (819 miles), but in just 4.5 hours, you will be in that bustling city without having to worry about waiting or moving around!

The high-speed train on this route belongs to the China Railway High-Speed (CRH) system – the pride of China with modern technology, outstanding speed and almost absolute precision. Sitting on the train, you can comfortably watch the scenery passing by the window, take a nap or enjoy a snack before arriving in Shanghai.

Beijing South Station | beijing to shanghai by bullet train

Beijing Railway Station | beijing to shanghai by bullet train

A quick summary of the Beijing – Shanghai train line

Travel time: The fastest trip takes only 4 hours 18 minutes, while some slower trips can take up to 6 hours.
Departure & destination: Most trips depart from Beijing South Station and end at Shanghai Hongqiao Station. This station is located right in the city center, extremely convenient for you to explore around!
Frequency: More than 50 trips/day, freely choose a suitable schedule without worrying about running out of tickets.
Train type: G-class high-speed train is the fastest option with speeds up to 350 km/h (217 mph). In addition, there are many other options such as standard high-speed trains or sleeper trains, meeting all travel needs.

Fast, convenient, flexible – no wonder this train line is always the most popular when traveling between Beijing and Shanghai!

Bullet train Shanghai – Beijing. copyright: Lyu Biao/VCG/Getty Images

Beijing to Shanghai by bullet train: Seat Classes on the Beijing – Shanghai High-Speed Train

China’s high-speed trains offer a modern and comfortable travel experience, with many seat class options to suit each need.

First Class With Luxurious – Luxurious – Smooth Space

Seats are arranged in a 2 + 2 layout, creating more comfort and privacy.
Spacious legroom, deep reclining seats help passengers relax throughout the journey.
Fewer passengers in the compartment, quiet space, suitable for those who want to enjoy the most comfortable trip.

Second Class – Reasonable Choice With Affordable Price

Shanghai to Beijing train

Seats are arranged in a 2+3 layout, optimizing space but still ensuring comfort.
Reasonable cost, suitable for tourists and business travelers who want to save money.
The most popular seat class on the Beijing – Shanghai high-speed train route.

How to Book Beijing – Shanghai Train Tickets

Beijing Private Transfer to/from PEK Airport

To ensure a smooth journey, passengers should book tickets before departure, especially during peak season when travel demand increases. Booking tickets early not only helps you be more proactive in your schedule but also avoids the situation of no seats, especially for popular high-speed trains. One of the most convenient ways to buy tickets is through Klook, a platform that supports up to 15 languages, 40 currencies, and over 40 payment methods, making it easy for you to make transactions in your language and currency.

In addition, booking tickets online helps you save time, avoid queuing at the station to buy tickets, and ensures you get the right seat. Plan early and book your tickets now to enjoy the smoothest and most complete Beijing – Shanghai journey!

Tip: Both Beijing and Shanghai have many train stations, but the main stations serving this high-speed train line are Beijing South Railway Station and Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station. In particular, Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is located right next to Hongqiao International Airport, which is extremely convenient if you have a connecting flight.

South Railway Station Shanghai | beijing to shanghai by high speed train

Shanghai Railway Station | beijing to shanghai by high speed train

However, if you want to get off closer to the city center, you can choose Shanghai Railway Station or Shanghai South Railway Station.

Important Notes When Traveling by Train in China

| beijing to shanghai by high speed train

Have you never experienced China’s high-speed train? Don’t worry, just master some of the tips below, you will have a smooth and comfortable journey.

Carry Your Passport Everywhere

Boarding a train in China is quite simple, but your passport and train ticket are two indispensable things. When you arrive at the ticket gate, you just need to present both to enter the waiting area and board the train. Don’t forget to check your documents before departure to avoid unnecessary trouble.

Arrive at the Station Early to Take the Initiative on Time

You should be at the station at least 1 – 1.5 hours before departure time to check in comfortably. Train stations in China are often quite large and crowded, especially during peak season. Arriving early will give you enough time to go through security, find the right platform and train car, and ensure a smooth trip.

Download Travel Apps

Although most signs at the station are in English, a translation app will still be very useful if you need help from staff or read instructions in Chinese. In addition, you can also refer to ticket booking apps, look up train schedules to easily track your journey.

Where to Go in Beijing?

Beijing Palace Museum Ticket (The Forbidden City)

Before heading to Shanghai, why not spend some time exploring Beijing, a city that combines both historical beauty and vibrant modernity? Here are the destinations you must visit.

The Great Wall: One of the greatest wonders of the world and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Great Wall is not only an impressive architectural work but also a symbol of Chinese history.
Forbidden City: The center of power for Chinese feudal dynasties for centuries, the Forbidden City is a vast palace complex with splendid royal architecture.
Temple of Heaven: Built during the Ming Dynasty, the Temple of Heaven is one of the most impressive structures in Beijing. With its iconic green domes, this place was once a place where emperors came to pray for a bountiful harvest.
Hutong: The ancient alleys of Beijing: Do you want to “time travel” to ancient China like in ancient movies? Take a walk in the streets of Hutong, which preserves the soul of the city through each ancient house, small shop and roadside teahouse.
798 Art District: If you love contemporary art, the 798 Art District is a must-see destination. Once an old industrial area, it has been transformed into a creative hub with art galleries, stylish cafes and impressive murals.

Temple of Heaven Admission Ticket in Beijing

What to Do in Shanghai?

As soon as you set foot in Shanghai, you will immediately be drawn into the vibrant life, where modernity and tradition blend in every corner. If you want to fully experience the spirit of this city, try the following experiences!

Shanghai Tower Ticket

Stroll along the Bund: There is nothing better than leisurely strolling along the banks of the Huangpu River, admiring the rows of modern skyscrapers that light up at night. A cup of milk tea in hand and the romantic scenery before your eyes – the perfect combo for a memorable evening!
Get lost in Yu Garden: If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of life, Yu Garden is the ideal place for you to relax amidst a Chinese-style setting. This place “fascinates” tourists with its curved stone bridges, peaceful lakes and ancient communal houses.
Shopping at Nanjing Road: This is a shopping paradise with countless fashion stores, international brands and traditional stalls for you to easily find the item you like.
Conquer the peak at Shanghai Tower: Try the feeling of standing on the observation deck of the second tallest building in the world, overlooking the entire city from a height of 632m. A true “wow” moment!
Take a boat ride in Zhujiajiao water town: The winding canals, mossy stone bridges and rows of ancient houses along the river create a poetic picture.

Shanghai Private Transfer to PVG/SHA Airport

Frequently asked questions about the Beijing – Shanghai train

Can I use a foreign credit card to book train tickets? Absolutely! Platforms like Klook support international card payments, helping you book tickets quickly and conveniently.

Are there restrooms on board? Yes! All high-speed trains are equipped with clean, modern restrooms to ensure passenger comfort.

Are there Wi-Fi facilities? Some trains offer free Wi-Fi, however, the connection may be unstable during the journey.

Can I cancel or change my train ticket? Cancellation and change policies vary depending on the booking platform. Please check the terms and conditions carefully before completing the transaction to avoid any future problems.

Traveling across China on high-speed trains is not only a way to travel but also opens up a whole world of experiences. With just a ticket in hand, you are ready to rush into the flow of time, glide through inspiring lands and write your own story for your adventure!

Let’s explore the land of a billion people with the Beijing – Shanghai train right away!