Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
High-speed train types
HIGH SPEED TRAIN TYPEPINYIN CHINESE
T
OP SPEED
C class
Chengji
350km/h
D class
Dongche
250km/h
G class
Gaotie
350km/h
High-speed
C class
trains are currently limited to the route between Beijing
and Tianjin. D class trains were the first high-speed trains to appear and
breathlessly glide around China at high speed, offering substantial comfort and
regular services.
D class
temperature-regulated 1st-class carriages have mo-
bile and laptop chargers, seats are two abreast with ample legroom and TV
sets. Second-class carriages have five seats in two rows.
G class
trains are
faster than D class trains and lines include Beijing to Shanghai, Wuhan to
Guangzhou and Zhengzhou to Xi'an.
Slower express classes include the overnight Z class trains, while further
down the pecking order are T and K class trains, which are older and more ba-
sic.
TRAVELLING BY TRAIN
Trains are generally highly punctual in China and are usually a safe way to
travel. Travelling on sleeper berths at night often means you can frequently ar-
rive at your destination first thing in the morning, saving a night's hotel accom-
modation.
Trolleys of food and drink are wheeled along carriages during the trip, but
prices are high and the selection is limited. Long-distance trains should have a
canteen carriage
(
canting chexiang
); they are sometimes open through the
night.
