High-Speed Rail

The Best Way to Travel Between Major Cities

If you're travelling between destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Chengdu or Hangzhou, high-speed rail is often the best choice.

Why travellers love it:

✔ Comfortable seating

✔ City centre to city centre

✔ Frequent departures

✔ Excellent punctuality

✔ Beautiful countryside views

Popular routes include:

• Beijing → Shanghai
• Beijing → Xi'an
• Shanghai → Hangzhou
• Chengdu → Chongqing
• Guangzhou → Shenzhen

For journeys under five or six hours, high-speed trains are often more convenient than flying because stations are usually closer to city centres.

Domestic Flights

Best for Long Distances

China is a vast country.

Flying is recommended when travelling between regions that are far apart.

For example:

• Beijing → Lhasa
• Shanghai → Kunming
• Chengdu → Urumqi
• Xi'an → Guilin

Most major cities have modern international-standard airports with regular domestic connections.

Metro Systems

Fast, Clean and Affordable

China's major cities have extensive metro networks that are easy to use.

Visitors generally find metro travel:

• Safe
• Affordable
• Clean
• Efficient

English signs are available in most large cities, making navigation straightforward for international travellers.

Cities with excellent metro systems include:

• Beijing
• Shanghai
• Shenzhen
• Guangzhou
• Chengdu
• Hangzhou

Avoid rush hour if you prefer a quieter journey.

Ride-Hailing Apps

The Most Convenient Way to Travel Locally

Ride-hailing services are widely used throughout China.

They are ideal for:

• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Museums
• Airports
• Evening travel

Compared with traditional taxis, ride-hailing apps often provide clearer pricing and easier navigation.

If you are travelling with GO EAST, your travel consultant can also assist with transportation arrangements whenever needed.

Traditional Taxis

Taxis remain widely available across Chinese cities.

Most taxis are metered, although drivers may speak limited English.

Having your destination written in Chinese or saved on your phone can make communication much easier.

Public Buses

Public buses reach almost every corner of Chinese cities.

They are inexpensive but may be more challenging for first-time international visitors because route information is often displayed primarily in Chinese.

For most travellers, metro systems or ride-hailing services are easier options.

Walking

Many of China's most interesting neighbourhoods are best explored on foot.

Historic districts, traditional hutongs, ancient towns and riverside streets often reveal experiences that cannot be discovered from inside a vehicle.

We encourage travellers to leave time for slow exploration rather than rushing between attractions.

Which Transportation Should You Choose?

Journey Best Option

Beijing → Xi'an High-Speed Rail

Shanghai → Hangzhou High-Speed Rail

Chengdu → Chongqing High-Speed Rail

Beijing → Lhasa Flight

Shanghai → Kunming Flight

Within Cities Metro or Ride-Hailing

Historic Districts Walking

Helpful Tips for International Travellers

• Carry your passport when travelling between cities.
• Arrive early for train departures, as stations can be large.
• Download a translation app before your trip.
• Keep your accommodation address saved in both English and Chinese.
• Allow extra time during national holidays, when transportation is especially busy.

Travel China with Confidence

China's transportation system may seem unfamiliar before your trip, but it is modern, efficient and surprisingly easy to use.

Whether you're travelling by high-speed train through the countryside or exploring historic neighbourhoods on foot, every journey is part of the experience.

At GO EAST, we help international travellers plan seamless journeys across China, combining efficient transportation with authentic local experiences and personalised travel design.