Key takeaways
- From Shanghai Hongqiao: Suzhou about 25–30 min, Hangzhou East 45–60 min, Nanjing South 1–1.5 h by bullet train.
- Tickets are linked to your passport — book on 12306 or Trip.com, or let us book for you.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early: there is an airport-style security check.
- Second class is fine for short hops; our tours book first class by default.
Almost every trip we plan uses at least one bullet train. Here is what our guests need to know before their first ride.
China's high-speed rail network makes East China one of the easiest regions in the world to travel. Trains run up to 350 km/h, are spotlessly clean and leave on time to the minute.
Typical journey times
| Route | Fastest time |
|---|---|
| Shanghai Hongqiao → Suzhou | about 25–30 min |
| Shanghai Hongqiao → Hangzhou East | about 45–60 min |
| Shanghai Hongqiao → Nanjing South | about 1–1.5 h |
| Suzhou → Hangzhou | about 1.5–2 h |
| Shanghai Hongqiao → Wuxi | about 30–45 min |
Stations to know
In Shanghai most high-speed trains leave from Hongqiao, next to the domestic airport. Some trains use Shanghai station in the city centre. In Hangzhou, Hangzhou East is the main hub; in Suzhou, choose between Suzhou station (close to the old town) and Suzhou North.
Booking with a foreign passport
- Tickets are linked to your passport — no paper ticket is needed.
- Book online through the official 12306 website or app, or let us handle it.
- Scan your passport at the e-gate, or use the staffed manual lane if the gate does not read it.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early: there is a security check like at an airport.
Seat classes
Second class is comfortable for short trips; first class has wider seats (2+2); business class offers lie-flat seats. On our tours we book first class by default.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring large suitcases on the train?
Written by our Shanghai-based trip planners, who have been arranging East China journeys for international travellers since 2012.
