China is building a high-speed passenger rail network, similar to French TGV or Japanese Shinkansen “bullet trains” but far larger. The fast trains are called CRH, China Railway High-speed. At some train stations there is a separate CRH ticket office or even vending machines; at others, CRH tickets are sold at separate counters in the main ticket office. In either case, just look for the “CRH” signs or logo. Note that non-Chinese can no longer use the vending machines; you must go to a counter so they can check your passport.

The speeds attained vary considerably from line to line. The technology used also varies. Nearly all the rolling stock is now manufactured in China, with much of the technology comes from abroad. The Canadian company Bombardier, Japanese Kawasaki, German Siemens and European Alstom has been involved (Travel Guide China, 2013).

High-speed trains (G, D, C trains in China) run much faster than the normal ones. As well as traveling at speeds of upto 400km/h, the bullet trains are operated by advanced technological communication systems.

China is a vast country, covering almost 10 million square km (about 3.9 million square mi), with the distance of 5,500 km (about 3,417 mi) in north-south direction and 5,200 km (about 3,231 mi) in east-west direction. On the standard rail network, it can take a long time to reach your destination. For instance from Beijing to Guangzhou, a distance of over 2,000 km (about 1,243 mi), it takes nearly 24 hours, however, the journey time is cut to just 8 hours by bullet train. China has so many worthy destinations, many of which are far apart from one to another, and in most cases, tourists have no choice but to take an airplane. So to solve the problem, China has developed the high-speed rail network to cover more of the country, making long-distance trips more convenient, time-saving and feasible (Travel Guide China, 2013).

• Fast: The present speed is higher than 200km/h, lessening the journey duration. For example, from Beijing to Shanghai, a distance of over 1,200 km (about 746 mi), it takes around 15 hours by normal trains, but the bullet trains just need 5 hours.
• Punctual: Less influence by weather, they usually arrive at their destinations on time. By contrast, a bus may be delayed because of traffic jams or bad road conditions. Flights may be cancelled because for the bad weather.
• Comfortable and Convenient: Seating is very comfortable, and the facilities can better meet passengers’ demands. Bullet trains are scheduled more frequently for many journeys so that passengers don’t need to wait too long.

High-speed trains also overcome the disadvantages of buses which face severe safety problems especially for those overnight ones. On the other hand, considering the airports which are usually located far from the city center and the long procedure for taking a flight, travel by the bullet train can be more time-saving and convenient, especially for a journey within 5 hours.

Travel China Guide. China High-Speed Train (Bullet Train). (2013). Retrieved on 17^th June 2013 at http://www.travelchinaguide.com/china-trains/high-speed/