Shanghai to Nanjing
A popular route connecting China's financial capital with the former imperial capital of the south. Ideal as a day trip or extended excursion from Shanghai.
出行选择
High-Speed Rail
High-Speed Rail
Every 10-15 minutes
Regular Train
Regular Train
Multiple daily
Bus
Bus
Every 30 minutes
路线比较
| Type | Duration | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Speed Rail | 1-1.5 hours | $20-$35 | Speed, comfort, and city-centre arrival |
| Regular Train | 2.5-3 hours | $8-$15 | Budget travel with flexible schedules |
| Bus | 3.5-4 hours | $15-$20 | Budget travel and rural destinations |
订票技巧
Book train tickets on Trip.com or the official 12306 app, both of which accept foreign passports.
Tickets for popular routes sell out quickly during holidays — book at least two weeks in advance for Golden Week and Chinese New Year.
Second-class seats on high-speed trains are spacious and comfortable for journeys under five hours.
For overnight trains, soft sleeper berths offer the best comfort with a private four-bed compartment.
Domestic flights are often cheaper than trains for distances over 1,500 km, especially with budget carriers like Spring Airlines.
Download the Didi app for in-city rides — it works like Uber and supports English.
At train stations, arrive at least 30 minutes early as security screening and ID checks can be time-consuming.
Keep your passport handy — it is required for all train ticket purchases and boarding in China.
关于Shanghai
China's largest city and a global financial hub, Shanghai dazzles visitors with its futuristic skyline along the Pudong waterfront and the colonial-era architecture of the Bund. Known for its vibrant nightlife, world-class dining, and rich art scene, Shanghai represents the cutting edge of modern China.
Explore Shanghai city guide关于Nanjing
A former capital of China for multiple dynasties, Nanjing is steeped in history and lined with grand tree-shaded boulevards. The city is home to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the imposing Ming Dynasty city wall, and the sobering Nanjing Massacre Memorial. With its prestigious universities and rich cultural heritage, Nanjing offers depth and reflection for thoughtful travelers.
Explore Nanjing city guide