Train Types
In China, there are two types of trains: high-speed trains and conventional trains. Here’s a breakdown of the different train types in China to help you choose the one for your adventures.
High-Speed Trains (G-series, D-series, and C-series)
China’s high-speed rail system or Fuxing Hao (meaning “rejuvenation”) is renowned worldwide for its speed, reliability, and modern amenities.
G (Gaosu) trains are the fastest high-speed trains you can book in China and with top speeds of 400kmph, they are the second fastest commercial trains in the world. The “fastest train in the world” honor goes to the Shanghai maglev train with a top speed of 431 kmh (268mph), but unlike G trains, the maglev only travels between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road station. G trains usually run on middle-to-long distance routes, such as Beijing-Shanghai and Beijing-Guangzhou, and are like airplanes in comfort and luxury, with Wi-Fi available. Put simply, where a conventional train would take more than 24 hours, the G trains will take 7-8 hours depending on the stops. They are daytime trains, i.e., no sleeper compartments here.
D (Dongche) trains are the second fastest train type in China, with an average speed of 250kmph (155mph). D trains are also available as overnight sleeper trains. *Note that these are not as widely available as G trains.
C (Chenji Dongche) trains are intercity trains that run between neighboring cities. Their average speed is 200kmph (124 mph).
Seat classes
G trains offer three seat classes (business, first, and second class), while the rest of the train types (D and C) offer two primary seat classes (first and second class).
Note: the comfort level on China’s high-speed trains is Business Class > Premium First Class (if exist) > First Class > Second Class. This is different from western airlines where first class is higher than business class.
Business Class (Shangwuzuo)
The most comfortable and luxurious seats on G trains are Business Class. The amenities are similar to what one might expect from Business Class seats on planes: fully reclining seats that convert into beds, enhanced privacy, fewer passengers in the car, complimentary snacks and soft drinks, and a dedicated TV.
Most major train stations feature VIP lounges for business class travelers to relax before boarding, offering complimentary beverages and snacks, access to newspapers and magazines, free Wi-Fi, and more. Additionally, these lounges may provide complimentary porter services for passengers with large luggage and wheelchair assistance for those with special needs during boarding.
Premium First Class (Youxuan Yidengzuo)
On key routes like Beijing-Shanghai, there is sometimes a fourth option, Premium First Class, which ranks between Business Class and First Class, offering an extra layer of privacy, luxury, and comfort. Premium Class passengers also have access to the Business Class lounge.
First Class (Yidengzuo)
The First Class cabins on high-speed trains offer spacious, adjustable seats with more elbow room than second-class seats, dedicated power outlets, and fewer seats in a row.
*This is WildChina’s recommended seat class if Business Class is not available
Second Class (Erdengzuo)
Second-class seats are the most common and most affordable seat class on high-speed trains, with shared power outlets, and smaller elbow and leg room. This is the most popular choice for local travelers, providing a perfect balance between affordability and convenience.
Conventional Trains (Z, T, K, and 4-digit trains)
China’s conventional (slow) trains offer several seat classes, catering to diverse travel modes.
Z trains are non-stop express trains, making only the odd stops along the way. The top speed is 160kmph (100mph). They run between major cities like Beijing and Shanghai
T trains (express trains), K trains (fast trains), and 4-digit trains run at an average speed range of 120 – 140kmph (75-87mph). These conventional trains have been around since the middle of the 20th century and are an excellent choice if you want to explore the cities at a slower pace, as they stop along most major stops.
Seat classes
Hard Seat (Yingzuo): The most economical choice, hard seats provide a budget-friendly option for short journeys. These seats are, as the name suggests, hard and not the most comfortable.
Soft Seat (Ruanzuo): Soft seats offer a more comfortable experience with cushioned seating, making them suitable for medium-distance travel.
Hard Sleeper (Yingwo): These budget-friendly sleeper options offer three-tiered bunk beds and are suitable for overnight journeys where comfort is a consideration. Hard sleeper cars are open-compartment/ cars, which means less privacy.
Soft Sleeper (Ruanwo): Soft sleeper compartments provide a higher level of comfort with two-tiered bunk beds, bedding, and more privacy. They are perfect for extended overnight travel and provide more privacy as the four-bed cabins have closing doors.
Note: All sleepers are single beds. People with mobility restrictions may wish to avoid the upper bunk.
Deluxe Soft Sleeper (Gaoji Ruanwo): Deluxe soft sleepers are the most comfortable seat class you can find on a conventional train in China. Like the soft sleeper cabins, they offer extra comfort and privacy with the bedding and a lockable door. They are also equipped with a private bathroom (with western toilets), and passengers get a complimentary bottle of water once aboard. However, only some of the Z trains offer this option, and the cabin can be fairly small as these are still conventional trains.
Please refer to the handy table below to see the different train classes, seat types, and amenities available on China’s trains.
