All You Need to Know (2025): China Train Trip from Guangzhou to Shanghai

[caption id="attachment_1493" align="aligncenter" width="1821"]

中国铁路 China Train[/caption]

Traveling by China train from Guangzhou to Shanghai is a fantastic way to experience China’s vastness and diversity. Whether you’re a first - time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide is tailored to help you navigate the journey smoothly, avoiding common hurdles foreign tourists might face. Let’s dive into all you need to know.

How Many Trains Run from Guangzhou to Shanghai?

The train route from Guangzhou to Shanghai is one of China’s busiest, offering a wide range of options for every traveler. In one day, passengers can choose from 19 trains.

A. Common Train Options

High-Speed Trains (G and D series): About 7–9 high-speed trains (G-series) run daily, with additional overnight D-series trains on some days.
Regular Trains (K, T, Z series): 3–4 overnight regular trains depart daily.

B. Departure Time and Duration

Train Type	Earliest Departure	Latest Departure	Shortest Duration	Longest Duration	Main Stations
High-Speed (G)	8:28:00 (G818)	16:22:00 (G822)	6h 21m (G822)	8h 28m (G1302)	Guangzhou South – Shanghai Hongqiao
Overnight (D)	19:20:00 (D933)	19:35:00 (D943)	11h 12m (D943)	11h 32m (D937)	Guangzhou South – Shanghai Hongqiao
Regular (K/T/Z)	7:52:00 (K512)	18:15:00 (Z100)	16h 30m (Z100)	23h 4m (K512)	Guangzhou Baiyun – Shanghai/Shanghai Songjiang

Shortest ride: G822 (16:22–22:43, 6h 21m, high-speed).
Longest ride: K512 (07:52–06:56+1, 23h 4m, regular train).
Main departure station: Guangzhou South Railway Station/ Guangzhou Baiyun Railway Station.
Main arrival station: Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station for high-speed; Shanghai Hongqiao/Shanghai Songjiang for regular trains 2 5 6.

[caption id="attachment_1494" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]

和谐号 CRH (China Railway High-speed) Harmony EMU[/caption]

High-Speed vs. Regular Trains: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between high-speed and regular trains depends on your travel style, budget, and schedule.

A. High-Speed Trains (G, D Series)

Speed: 250–350 km/h, journey time 6.5–11.5 hours 2 7 8.
Comfort: Modern, clean, English signage, power outlets, WiFi (limited), Western toilets.
Classes: Second class, first class, business class.
Best for: Travelers who value speed, comfort, and convenience.

B. Regular Trains (K, T, Z Series)

Speed: 100–160 km/h, journey time 16–23 hours 2 7 8.
Comfort: Older facilities, more stops, basic amenities, squat toilets more common.
Classes: Hard seat, hard sleeper, soft sleeper.
Best for: Budget travelers, those seeking an overnight adventure or classic rail experience.

C. Final Recommendations

Based on the various requirements of passengers, here are the relevant recommendations: For families on a trip or those short on time, high-speed trains (G series) are the best choice, as they are fast, reliable, and comfortable. For budget travelers, overnight regular trains (Z/K/T series) are a great option, offering cheaper sleeper berths and allowing them to save on a night’s hotel cost. For adventure seekers, trying an overnight D-series train is recommended, as it provides a unique experience with modern sleeper cabins.

Major Train Stations Along the Route

Understanding the main train stations will make your journey smoother.

A. Departure Station: Guangzhou South Railway Station

[caption id="attachment_1499" align="aligncenter" width="2560"]

广州南站 Guangzhou South Railway Station[/caption]

Location: Panyu District, Guangzhou
How to Get There:
1. Metro Line 2 or Line 7 to Guangzhou South Railway Station.
2. Taxi from city center (30–45 minutes).
Facilities: Luggage storage, restaurants, English signage.
Tips: Arrive at least 45 minutes early for security and boarding; station is busy and large.

B. Passing Stations

Changsha South: Capital of Hunan province, a major transfer hub.
Nanchang West: Gateway to Jiangxi province.
Hangzhou East: Famous for West Lake, a possible stopover.

C. Arrival Station: Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station

[caption id="attachment_1509" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]

上海虹桥站 Platform of Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station[/caption]

Location: Minhang District, Shanghai
How to Get There:
1. Metro Line 2, 10, or 17 to Hongqiao Railway Station.
2. Taxi to city center (30–45 minutes).
Facilities: Extensive dining, shopping, easy metro connections.
Tips: Passengers should allow at least 45 minutes for boarding, and the station has easy access to the city center via metro or taxi.

How to Buy Train Tickets？

Buying train tickets in China is straightforward if you know where to look. Here shows a detailed guide on booking tickets.

A. Booking Platforms

Online (Recommended):
1. Trip.com (English, accepts foreign cards)10 11.
2. Rail Ninja (English, easy interface)12.
3. 12306.cn (Official, English version available, but registration can be tricky)13.
At the Station:
1. Ticket counters (show your passport; don't worry about language problems as the station staff can communicate in basic English.).
2. Self-service machines (not recommended since it usually requires Chinese ID).

[caption id="attachment_1510" align="aligncenter" width="1179"]

高铁自助售票处 Self-Service Ticket Office[/caption]

B. Required Documents

Passport (must match the name on your ticket).

C. When to Book

Tickets released 15 days in advance at 2:00 PM Beijing time11.
Peak seasons: Chinese New Year, National Day, and summer holidays—book as early as possible.
If sold out: Check platforms frequently, as tickets may be released in batches or returned.

D. Ticket Prices (2025 Reference)

Train Type	2nd Class	1st Class	Business	Soft Sleeper	Hard Sleeper	Hard Seat
G (High-Speed)	¥880	¥1,425.50	¥2,882.50	–	–	–
D (Overnight)	¥599.00	–	–	¥860	–	–
Z/K/T (Reg.)	–	–	–	¥561	¥323	¥190

Children under 12 and 1.5 m: Commonly, children are eligible for discounted fares: around 75% of the standard ticket price for sleeper accommodations and 50% of the regular fare for seated tickets. This reduced pricing applies to kids who are both under 12 years old and no more than 1.5 meters in height. 2

E. Train Ticket Refund Policy in China (2025)

If your travel plans change, you can usually get a refund for your Guangzhou to Shanghai train ticket. Here’s what you need to know:

Refund Fees

The amount you get back depends on how early you cancel your ticket before the train departs:

More than 8 days before departure: Full refund, no fee.
48 hours to 8 days before departure: 5% of the ticket price will be charged as a cancellation fee.
24 to 48 hours before departure: 10% of the ticket price will be charged as a cancellation fee.
Less than 24 hours before departure: 20% of the ticket price will be charged as a cancellation fee.
After train departure: Refunds are not possible.

Refund Methods

If you booked online (Trip.com, China Highlights, 12306, etc.):
1. Log in to the website or app where you bought your ticket.
2. Find your order and click “Refund” or “Cancel.”
3. Make sure to use the same passport you used for booking.
4. The refund will go back to your original payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.).
5. Some platforms require you to cancel at least 1 hour before departure.
If you bought at the train station:
1. Go to any train station ticket window with your passport and paper ticket.
2. Staff will process your refund in cash or to your card.
3. If you already collected your paper ticket, you must return it to get a refund.

[caption id="attachment_1508" align="aligncenter" width="512"]

中国铁路标识 Chinese Railway Identification[/caption]

FAQs

A. Do I need to print my ticket?

No. Use your passport to board; because the electronic tickets have been available on most train routes. 5 6

B. Can I bring food onboard?

Yes. Snacks, drinks, and instant noodles are common. But it should be noted that you should try not to eat food with a strong smell in the carriage, otherwise it will cause discomfort to other passengers.

C. Is English spoken at the stations?

Major stations have some English signage and staff, but not all ticket agents speak English. So it's better use translation apps if needed 11.

D. What if I miss my train?

If you need assistance, please go to the ticket counter; changes to your ticket may be possible, but this is subject to seat or ticket availability. 11

Enjoy Your China Rail Adventure

Traveling from Guangzhou to Shanghai by train is fast, comfortable, and a great way to see China. With multiple daily departures, modern stations, and easy ticketing for tourists from different countries, you’ll find it’s one of the best ways to travel between these two dynamic cities. Hope you can enjoy the journey!