China has many kinds of transportation to make your China travel convenient.

China Transportation of high-speed train Trains:

  China’s railway network extends throughout the country, connecting nearly all major cities and numerous rural areas. The rail system is primarily divided into three categories: high-speed railway (above 250 km/h), fast railway (around 200 km/h) and general speed railway (under 160 km/h). High-speed railways operate with G-series trains, fast railway with D-series, and general speed railway with K, T, Z-series.

  • G-Series High-Speed Train: Operating at speeds of 250-350 km/h, these trains are equipped with comfortable seats, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and more.
  • D-Series High-Speed Train: Operating at speeds of 200-250 km/h, these trains are slightly slower and more affordable than G trains.
  • Z-series Trains (Z-series): These trains operate at a maximum speed of 160 km/h and usually do not stop at intermediate stations, only stopping at the origin and destination.
  • Express Trains (T-Series): These trains reach speeds of 140 km/h and offer various classes, such as soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and hard seats, with varying ticket prices.
  • Fast Trains (K-Series): Operating at speeds of 120 km/h, these trains offer soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and hard seat options at lower prices than express trains. They connect numerous major cities and rural areas.
  • Normal Passenger Trains (no prefix or other letters): These trains’number have only four digits. Trains numbered 1001-5999 are normal fast trains, while those numbered above 6001 stop at most or all stations along the route, running at slower speeds of 80-100 km/h. Typically, only hard seat compartments are available.

Read our China High-Speed Train Travel to gain more inspirations of your China tours.

China Transportation of airplane Airplanes:

  The airplane is the fastest mode of transportation. China has a vast and efficient aviation system, offering convenient travel options for tourists. The major airlines include:

  • Air China, which serves key global cities like New York, London, Paris, and Tokyo;
  • China Eastern Airlines, which connects major cities in Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania, such as Los Angeles, Sydney, and Bangkok;
  • China Southern Airlines, which operates in Asia, Europe, and North America, including San Francisco, Amsterdam, and Tokyo;
  • Hainan Airlines, which covers major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Paris.

  China’s primary aviation hubs are Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. Most international visitors must obtain a visa before entry, and specific visa requirements can be checked through Chinese embassies or related visa services. Upon entry, visitors need to present a passport, visa, and arrival card.

China Transportation of highways Expressways/highways:

  China boasts an extensive road network exceeding 160,000 kilometers, covering major cities and economic zones across China, making it one of the world’s longest. This road network is ideal for various types of road trips, including long-distance travel between cities, rural sightseeing tours, and coastal scenic drives. The diverse landscapes offer unique road views, from bustling urban centers to tranquil countryside, catering to different travel preferences.

  The road transportation system in China comprises several types of roads, including expressways, national highways, provincial roads, as well as county and rural roads. This highly developed system connects major cities and tourist hotspots through a well-maintained road network. In China, vehicles drive on the right side of the road, with lane and turn rules similar to those in most countries. The speed limit on city roads typically ranges from 40-60 km/h, while on expressways, it’s generally 100-120 km/h. Speed limits may be lower in special areas such as school zones and construction zones.

Waterways:

  China’s extensive water transportation network includes major rivers like the Yangtze, Yellow, and Pearl Rivers, as well as coastal ports. Water transportation is divided into inland and coastal shipping, catering to various travel and transportation needs. Major waterways, such as the Yangtze River, the longest in China, the Yellow River, and the Pearl River, serve as important freight routes and scenic tourist routes. The Yangtze River offers diverse tourism services, such as the Three Gorges cruise, while the Pearl River is famous for its night cruises in Guangzhou.

  Coastal regions feature major ports such as Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Tianjin, handling large volumes of international and domestic cargo and offering cruise services connecting China to global destinations. Inland shipping primarily serves inland cities and regions, providing both freight transportation and some tourism cruise services. China’s water transportation system supports large-scale freight transport and offers tourists a rich and varied water travel experience.

China Urban Transportation Urban Transportation:

  • Buses: Buses are a vital urban transportation option in China, offering extensive travel choices. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and Hangzhou have well-developed bus networks that cover urban and surrounding areas. Bus routes are densely distributed, typically connecting key commercial areas, residential districts, transportation hubs, and tourist attractions.
  • Subways: China’s subway system is an efficient and convenient urban transportation option. Subway lines are widespread, with frequent services ideal for quick city travel. Most subway systems feature English signage, making them easy for foreign tourists to use. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chongqing have well-developed subway networks. Beijing and Shanghai, in particular, have dense subway lines offering fast and convenient travel. Subway stations are typically equipped with signage, maps, electronic screens, as well as dining and shopping facilities. In major cities, stations provide English signs to assist foreign tourists.
  • Shared Bikes: Many cities offer shared bike services, such as Mobike and Hello Bike, which are typically found near major streets, commercial areas, transportation hubs, and popular tourist sites. Tourists can rent and return bikes via mobile apps, providing a convenient option for short-distance travel.
  • Long-Distance Buses: Also known as highway coaches, these buses are designed for intercity passenger transport. They mainly serve to carry passengers and their luggage between cities or regions, offering an economical and efficient transportation option. Buses are typically equipped with dozens of seats, and some can accommodate up to 100 passengers.
  • Taxis/Online Car-hailing Services: Taxis are abundant in major cities and can be hailed on the street or booked by phone. Fares are based on distance and time, with payment options usually available in both Chinese and English. Online car-hailing services like Didi or Caocao Chuxing are widely used in China and can be booked through mobile apps, offering convenience and a variety of payment options.