Planning to travel from Shanghai to Guangzhou? China high-speed network offers a swift and efficient travel option for both residents and foreigners.
💥In this article, we offer the basic info about China high speed rail Shanghai to Guangzhou, Shanghai to Guangzhou train timetable & fare, the comparison of planes and trains for Beijing-Shanghai route, and must-visit attractions in Guangzhou. ✨Stay with us till the end!
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✨Popular China Bullet Train Routes✨
- DepartureShanghai Hongqiao
- ArrivalHangzhou East
- Duration~45m
- Price (2nd Class)From $8.00
- DepartureShanghai Hongqiao
- ArrivalBeijing South
- Duration~6h
- Price (2nd Class)From $79.40
- DepartureShanghai Hongqiao
- ArrivalShenzhen North
- Duration~7h
- Price (2nd Class)From $81.46
China High Speed Rail Shanghai to Guangzhou Information
China high-speed rail Shanghai and Guangzhou is one of the major high-speed rail routes in China. The route is served by the G-category trains, D-category trains, and traditional T-category, K-category, and Z-category trains. Here's some basic information about high-speed trains from Shanghai to Guangzhou:
| Basic Info about China High Speed Rail Shanghai to Guangzhou | |
| Station | -Shanghai: Shanghai Hongqiao Station -Guangzhou: Guangzhou South Station |
| Distance | Approx. 1,500 km (932 miles) |
| Duration(G-category) | 7 to 8 hours |
| Duration(D-category) | About 11 hours |
| Speed | G-category: 300-350 km/h D-category: 200-250 km/h |
| Frequency | 6 departures daily |
| Seat Classes | Second Class, First Class, and Business Class |
| Amenities | Air conditioning, power outlets, reclining seats, clean restrooms, and dining services |
| Identification | Required to present a valid ID, such as a passport for foreign travelers |
| Ticket Booking | Passengers can book at stations, or through Trip.com. |
| Night Trains | Besides of bullet trains, overnight sleeper trains (T-category and Z-category) that take longer (about 16-17 hours) |
| Recommendation | Book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods like Chinese New Year, national holidays, or weekends. |
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China High Speed Rail Shanghai to Guangzhou Timetable & Fare
| Train No. | Departure-Arrival Time | Duration | Departure-Arrival Station | Price |
| G817 | 08:00 - 14:56 | 6h56m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $109.44 |
| G1301 | 10:18 - 18:45 | 8h27m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $109.44 |
| G1305 | 15:25 - 23:34 | 8h9m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $109.44 |
| D941 | 19:55 - 06:58 | 11h3m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $82.67 |
| D931 | 20:00 - 07:08 | 11h8m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $82.67 |
| D935 | 20:00 - 07:08 | 11h8m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $82.67 |
*The price varies depending on the exchange rate and date.
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Shanghai to Guangzhou Overnight Rail Schedule
| Train No. | Departure-Arrival Time | Duration | Departure-Arrival Station | Price |
| D941 | 19:55 - 06:58 | 11h3m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $82.67 |
| D931 | 20:00 - 07:08 | 11h8m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $82.67 |
| D935 | 20:00 - 07:08 | 11h8m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou South | From $82.67 |
| T169 | 11:26 - 04:51 | 17h25m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou | From $26.16 |
| Z99 | 17:27 - 09:57 | 16h30m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou | From $28.44 |
| K527 | 19:13 - 17:20 | 22h7m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou Baiyun | From $26.16 |
| K511 | 16:55 - 15:04 | 22h9m | Shanghai Hongqiao-Guangzhou | From $27.74 |
*The price varies depending on the exchange rate and date.
Overnight Hotels near Guangzhou South Railway Station
For visitors who arrive overnight at Guangzhou South Railway Station, take a look at 3 best hotels within 1km:
Radisson RED Guang Zhou South Railway Station
- 🕒 Check-in: After 14:00
- 🕒 Check-out: Before 12:00
27th Floor, Lufu United Plaza, No. 233 Hanxi Avenue West
Victoria Hotel (Guangzhou South High-speed Railway Station)
- 🕒 Check-in: After 14:00
- 🕒 Check-out: Before 12:00
Lobby, 1st Floor, East Tower, Aoyuan Yueshidai Plaza, No. 283 Hanxi Avenue West
April Shangzhu Hotel Apartment (Guangzhou South High-speed Railway Station)
- 🕒 Check-in: After 14:00
- 🕒 Check-out: 12:00-12:30
No. 277, Hanxi Avenue West
Shanghai to Guangzhou - Flight VS. Train
Traveling from Shanghai to Guangzhou can be done conveniently by either flight or high-speed train, depending on your preferences for speed, comfort, and overall travel experience. Here's a comparison of the two modes of transportation:
| Factors | Plane | High-Speed Train |
| Duration | 2.5 to 3 hours. | 7 to 8 hours |
| Frequency | Very frequent | 6 departures daily |
| Cost | More expensive than trains | $82.68 -$109.46(second class) |
| Comfort | More cramped than train for Economy class | Offer more legroom and mobility |
| Convenience | -Airport located farther from city centers -Need to arrive in advance for security checks and boarding | -Train stations often centrally located -The check-in process is quicker than planes -Well-connected to city public transport |
| Reliability | Occasional delays due to weather conditions or air traffic | Known for their punctuality and are less affected by weather |
| Scenery | Provides aerial views | Offers a chance to see the countryside |
| Environmental Impact | Higher carbon footprint | More environmentally friendly |
| Overall Experience | A good option for business travelers | More relaxed and more enjoyable for those who prefer not to rush |
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Best Things to Do in Guangzhou
Canton Tower
Guangzhou, also known as Canton, is a bustling metropolis in southern China and the capital of Guangdong Province. It's a city rich in history, culture, and modern attractions. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting Guangzhou:
- 1. Canton Tower: Visit this iconic 600-meter-tall tower for panoramic views of the city. You can also try the Bubble Tram or the Sky Drop for an extra thrill.
- 2. Shamian Island: Explore this historical area known for its European-style architecture, quiet streets, and charming cafes. It's a great place for a leisurely walk and photography.
- 3. Chimelong Tourist Resort: This large amusement park complex includes a safari park, water park, circus, and an international circus. It's perfect for families and thrill-seekers.
Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort
- 4. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: An academic temple turned museum, this complex is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture and houses many examples of folk art and traditional crafts.
- 5. Guangzhou Opera House: Designed by Zaha Hadid, this is a modern architectural marvel. You can watch a performance or simply admire the building's unique structure.
- 6. Baiyun Mountain: For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike or cable car ride up Baiyun Mountain offers fresh air and a break from the city, with rewarding views from the top.
Baiyun Mountain
- 7. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall: A monument dedicated to the father of modern China, Dr. Sun Yat-sen, this octagonal building is an important site for both its historical significance and its architectural beauty.
- 8. Guangdong Provincial Museum: Learn about the history, art, and culture of Guangdong province in this modern museum.
Guangdong Provincial Museum
Get the China High Speed Rail Shanghai to Guangzhou Tickets with Trip.com
12306 vs. Trip.com
When booking train tickets in China, travelers can choose between 12306, the official site of China Railway Corporation, and Trip.com, a reliable international travel agency. While 12306 allows users to book directly, it often experiences technical issues and offers support only in Chinese during limited hours. Conversely, Trip.com provides a user-friendly interface, multilingual 24/7 customer support, and accepts various payment methods, making it cheaper and more accessible for international travelers.
| Feature | 12306 | Trip.com |
| Booking Source | Official China Railway website | Best International travel agency |
| Additional Fees | No extra fees | Possible extra fees |
| Service Hours | 5 AM to 1 AM (11:30 PM on Thursdays) | 24/7 |
| Website Reliability | Occasional errors and crashes | Stable and user-friendly |
| Customer Service | Chinese only, limited hours | Multilingual, available 24/7 |
| Payment Options | Limited to local methods | International credit cards, AliPay, WeChat Pay |
| Additional Services | None | Hotels, flights, tours |
FAQs about China High Speed Rail Shanghai to Guangzhou
How long does it take to travel from Shanghai to Guangzhou by high-speed train?
The travel time can vary depending on the specific service and the number of stops, but it typically takes between 7 to 8 hours to travel from Shanghai to Guangzhou on a high-speed train.How often do high-speed trains run between Shanghai and Guangzhou?
There are 6 departures of bullet trains daily, and several K-category and T-category trains.How much does a high-speed train ticket from Shanghai to Guangzhou cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on the class of service (second class, first class, business class). Gnerally, the ticket for second class costs $82.68-$109.45.Do I need to reserve a seat in advance?
Yes, when you purchase a ticket, a seat is automatically reserved for you. There are no standing tickets on high-speed trains.Is there a luggage limit on high-speed trains?
es, passengers are typically allowed to bring up to 20 kg of luggage for free, with the total dimension of each item not exceeding 130 cm. There are overhead racks for small bags and designated spaces for larger suitcases.