China High-Speed Rail: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

China Train Guide for Foreigners | Come on, Amtrak!

Destination:ChinaCity:NanjingPopulation:9.4 million
China Train Guide for Foreigners | Come on, Amtrak!
Retirement Travelers2025-07-1216 min

Our Complete Guide for Taking Trains in China

Over the past few months, we’ve been sharing our unforgettable train journey through China—nine cities, 3,300 miles, and one incredible adventure at a time. This week, we’re switching tracks (literally!) and diving deep into one of our favorite parts of the whole trip: riding China’s high-speed trains.

If you've ever wondered what it’s really like to zoom across the country at 200+ mph, this is your front-row ticket. We cover everything—from navigating massive train stations and booking your tickets as a foreign traveler, to picking between second class, first class, or the surprisingly luxurious business class.

This week, we discuss everything there is to know about taking these trains in China and why they offer so much better luxury and value than Amtrak. Chinese trains are easy to book, affordable and offer an amazing value, compared to riding on Amtrak. In this guide we show the best app to book your trains, compare the different seating classes, give you tips for navigating the train and metro stations and share why China train travel is the best method of transportation in this amazing country to visit.

--- Retirement Travelers
July 12, 2025, Summer in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00China train journey overview
  2. 1:09Booking tickets and navigating stations
  3. 4:07Comparing train classes
  4. 5:30Train vs flight comparison
  5. 7:01Booking tips for foreigners
  6. 8:06Navigating train stations
  7. 14:43Cultural notes on smoking
  8. 15:25Overall impression of the system

Retirement Travelers' China high-speed train journey: efficient, affordable luxury! Stunning views, seamless travel, and surprising comfort.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Planning independent travel in China with practical tips to make your trip smooth and stress-free. This includes visa applications, booking accommodations, and understanding local customs and transportation options. (0:50)
  2. Tip 2Consider riding the high-speed rail for an efficient and exhilarating way to explore China. The network is extensive and the trains are incredibly fast and comfortable. (2:18)
  3. Tip 3As a foreign traveler, book train tickets through a third-party platform like Trip.com, 15 days before departure. Tickets usually aren't released earlier. (5:47)
  4. Tip 4Arrive at the train station 45-60 minutes early to allow time for baggage screening and finding your platform. Trains depart punctually. (9:56)
  5. Tip 5Allow at least 30 minutes between train transfers to account for security checks and navigation. Connections in China require more time than in Europe. (14:07)

Retirement Travelers share their incredible China train adventure! Experience the speed and luxury of China's high-speed rail, a marvel of engineering. Learn how to navigate stations, book tickets as a foreigner, and choose between classes. Discover why China's train system surpasses even Amtrak in value and comfort. This is more than transportation; it's an unforgettable journey!

More about the current video:( 11 / 11 )

China Train Guide for Foreigners | Come on, Amtrak!

This video, "China Train Guide for Foreigners | Come on, Amtrak!" by Retirement Travelers, offers a comprehensive guide to navigating China's extensive high-speed rail network. It details their journey across nine cities, covering over 3,300 miles. The video highlights the efficiency and surprisingly luxurious experience of China's trains compared to Amtrak.

Retirement Travelers meticulously cover the booking process for foreigners, emphasizing the use of platforms like Trip.com and the 15-day advance booking window. They also share insights into navigating massive, airport-sized train stations, including security checks and the convenience of integrated subway systems.

The video provides a detailed comparison of second-class, first-class, and business-class seating, highlighting the affordability of even the luxurious business class. They share personal anecdotes, such as successfully requesting seat changes and utilizing hot water dispensers for instant ramen.

Unique details such as the availability of massage chairs in stations and the thoughtful gestures of train attendants are highlighted, adding a personal touch to the overall experience. Retirement Travelers also discuss cultural nuances, like the prevalence of smoking among men on platforms.

The video emphasizes the punctuality and cleanliness of the trains and stations, contrasting it with the traveler's previous experiences. It underscores the smooth, quiet ride and the stunning views from the large windows, making the train journey an integral part of the overall travel experience. Retirement Travelers' personal insights and experiences make this video a valuable resource for anyone planning a similar trip.

China High-Speed Rail: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Our Complete Guide for Taking Trains in China Over the past few months, we’ve been sharing our unforgettable train journey through China—nine cities, 3,300 miles, and one incredible adventure at a time. This week, we’re switching tracks (literally!) and diving deep into one of our favorite parts of...

China High-Speed Rail Guide: Travel Tips & Experiences

Embark on an unforgettable train adventure through China! Retirement travelers John and Bev share their experiences traversing nine cities and 3,300 miles by high-speed rail. Discover the ease of booking tickets, the comfort of various seating classes (from second to luxurious business class), and tips for navigating bustling train stations. They compare the exceptional value and luxury of Chinese high-speed rail to Amtrak, highlighting the user-friendly booking app and affordable fares. This comprehensive guide makes planning your own Chinese train journey a breeze!

Attractions in this video: Jean Xiao National Park