Traveling between Shanghai and Hangzhou by high-speed rail is the fastest, most convenient, and eco-friendly option. With trains reaching 300 km/h (186 mph), the journey takes just 45–60 minutes, whisking you from skyscrapers to tea plantations in comfort.
This complete bullet train guide covers:
✔ Best train types & ticket classes
✔ Step-by-step booking instructions
✔ Departure stations in Shanghai
✔ Arrival stations in Hangzhou
✔ Essential travel tips
1. Train Types & Travel Time
G-Trains (高铁) – Fastest Option
- Duration: 45–60 minutes
- Frequency: Every 10–20 minutes (6:00 AM–10:00 PM)
- Top Speed: 350 km/h (217 mph)
D-Trains (动车) – Slightly Slower
- Duration: 1h 10m–1h 30m
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
- Top Speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
*Tip: Always choose G-trains unless you’re on a tight budget—D-trains save only ¥10–20 but add 30+ minutes.*
2. Ticket Prices (2024 Fares)
| Class | G-Train Price | D-Train Price |
|---|---|---|
| Second Class (二等座) | ¥73 | ¥63 |
| First Class (一等座) | ¥117 | ¥100 |
| Business Class (商务座) | ¥219 | ¥190 |
Note: Children under 1.2m ride free (no seat).
3. Where to Depart in Shanghai?
A. Shanghai Hongqiao Station (上海虹桥站)
- Best for: Most high-speed trains (90% of departures)
- Metro access: Lines 2, 10, 17
- Facilities: Food court, lounges, luggage storage
B. Shanghai Station (上海站)
- Best for: Travelers near downtown (Jing’an/Xuhui)
- Metro access: Lines 1, 3, 4
- Fewer trains: Only 5–6 daily G/D trains
Avoid Shanghai South Station—no bullet trains to Hangzhou.
4. Where to Arrive in Hangzhou?
A. Hangzhou East Station (杭州东站)
- Best for: Most travelers (closest to metro/buses)
- To West Lake: 20 min taxi (¥35) or Metro Line 1
B. Hangzhou Station (杭州站, aka “City Station”)
- Best for: Those staying near West Lake
- To West Lake: 10 min walk
Pro Tip: If your hotel is near West Lake, choose Hangzhou Station for convenience.
5. How to Buy Tickets
Online Booking (Recommended)
- 12306.cn (Official site—requires Chinese phone number)
- Trip.com/Ctrip (English interface, accepts foreign cards)
- WeChat/Alipay (Search “火车票”)
At the Station
- Self-service kiosks (English available)
- Ticket windows (Passport required for foreigners)
*Booking Tip: Purchase 3–7 days early for peak times (weekends/holidays).*
6. Boarding Process: Step-by-Step
- Arrive 30 mins early (Security lines can take 10+ mins)
- Scan ID/passport at automated gates (No paper tickets needed for e-tickets)
- Follow signs to your train’s waiting zone
- Board when announced (Gates open 15 mins before departure)
Pro Tip: Trains stop for only 2–4 minutes—be ready to alight quickly!
7. Onboard Experience
Amenities by Class
| Class | Perks |
|---|---|
| Second Class | Reclining seats, power outlets |
| First Class | Wider seats, footrests, free water |
| Business Class | Lie-flat seats, meal service, lounge access |
Food Options
- Train carts sell snacks (¥15–50) like instant noodles, sandwiches
- Pre-order meals via Hungry Panda for pickup at stations
8. Essential Travel Tips
✔ Download offline maps (Google Maps restricted; use Baidu/Amap)
✔ Bring small bills (Vendors may not accept ¥100 notes)
✔ Pack layers (Trains are often over-air-conditioned)
✔ Use luggage racks (Space is limited near seats)
Alternative Transport Options
| Method | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bullet Train | 45m–1h | ¥73+ | Everyone |
| Private Car | 2.5h | ¥600+ | Groups |
| Bus | 3h | ¥80 | Budget travelers |
Final Advice
The Shanghai-Hangzhou bullet train isn’t just transport—it’s a scenic prelude to tea fields and pagodas. For the smoothest trip:
- Book G-trains from Hongqiao
- Choose Hangzhou Station if staying lakeside
- Grab window seats for river/ countryside views
“Why drive when you can glide past rice paddies at 350 km/h?”
