Beijing to Shanghai Train

4h 18min · 53+ trains daily · from $42

0 km Distance
4h 18min Fastest Journey
53+ Daily Trains
$42 Price From (2nd Class)

About This Route

The Beijing–Shanghai line is one of the busiest rail corridors connecting these two cities. With 53+ trains running daily, you'll rarely have trouble finding a seat — though booking a day or two ahead is still a good idea during holidays.

Which Train Should You Take?

Most travelers pick a G-train (high-speed, up to 350 km/h). They're comfortable, punctual, and the stations are modern. If you're on a budget, D-trains are slightly slower but cheaper. For overnight journeys, Z-trains have sleeper berths — you save a hotel night.

Seat Classes

High-speed trains offer second class (5 seats per row, perfectly fine for most journeys), first class (4 seats per row, more legroom), and business class (fully reclining, premium price). For this route, second class is what most people book — it's clean, quiet, and has power outlets. Prices start from $42.

Tips for This Route

  • Book 3–5 days ahead during Chinese holidays (Spring Festival, National Day, Dragon Boat).
  • Beijing may have multiple stations — make sure you go to the right one. The ticket shows the exact station name.
  • Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Security + ticket check takes time.
  • Bring your passport — you'll need it to enter the station and board.
  • The fastest train takes about 4h 18min.

Beijing to Shanghai High-Speed Trains

There are 53 daily trains between Beijing and Shanghai. The fastest high-speed train (G25) departs at 17:00 and takes 4h 18min.

Sample high-speed train schedule from Beijing to Shanghai
TrainDepartureArrivalDuration
G25 17:00 21:18 4h 18min
G35 19:24 23:51 4h 27min
G13 16:00 20:28 4h 28min
G19 14:00 18:32 4h 32min
G27 17:04 21:36 4h 32min
G21 15:00 19:34 4h 34min
G9 10:00 14:35 4h 35min
G17 13:00 17:35 4h 35min

Schedules are for reference only. Search real-time availability →

Regular Trains

Slower but cheaper options including K-trains and T-trains with sleeper berths available for overnight travel.

Sample regular train schedule from Beijing to Shanghai
TrainDepartureArrivalDuration
1461 11:59 06:45 18h 46min
Z281 19:21 08:44 13h 23min
T109 20:04 11:02 14h 58min

Want to check tomorrow's availability and exact prices?

Search Real-Time Schedules →

Ticket Prices (USD)

Prices vary by train type and seat class. Second class on high-speed trains offers the best value for most travelers.

Standing
$22 – $95
Hard Seat
$22 – $25
First Class
$131 – $151
Hard Sleeper
$40 – $43
Second Class
$42 – $95
Soft Sleeper
$64 – $67
Business Class
$246 – $331
First Class Sleeper
$78 – $85
Premium First Class
$180 – $207
Second Class Sleeper
$61 – $67

Prices are in USD, approximate and may vary by date, availability and exchange rate. Last updated: 2026-09-02.