Top 5 Scenic Rail Routes in China You Can't Miss!
Why rush through airports when the journey itself could be the highlight? Skip the airports and embrace the journey. Scenic train rides in China offer more than just a way to get from point A to B. They let you slow down, relax, and truly enjoy the landscapes unfolding outside your window.
From snow-capped mountains to endless grasslands, these railways cut through regions rich in history and tradition. Each route carries stories of culture, nature, and discovery that you will not find 30,000 feet in the air.
With smooth rides and paranomic views, train travel blends modern comfort with old-world adventure. Here we have specially curated 5 unique journeys that will make you see China in a whole new way.
01
Qinghai-Tibet Railway
青藏铁路
Known as the highest railway in the world, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, and Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Autonomous Region.
Reaching its highest elevation of 5,072 meters above sea level, crossing vast plateaus and snow-capped peaks.
Perfect for adventure seekers and scenery enthusiasts.
Train Features
Built for comfort at extreme altitudes, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is equipped with an oxygen system to ease altitude sickness, alongside air-conditioning, hot water dispensers, power outlets, and washrooms located in each carraige. The dinning car is the heart of the train, serving three meals daily with a mix of Chinese and simple Western options at reasonable prices.
Passenger can rest in sleeper cabins, choosing between budget-friendly hard sleeper or the more private and comfortable soft sleeper, making the journey more enjoyable for all.
Unique Landscape
The train offers unforgettable scenic routes with views of the Qinghai Lake, China's largest saltwater lake. Taking you across vast grasslands, where yaks and nomadic herders roam freely. As the train climbs higher, passengers can enjoy the scenery of the snow-capped mountains and open, expansive plateaus.
Keep an eye out for Tibetan antelopes and other wildlife as the train moves through one of China's most remote regions. Along the way, small towns provide a glimpse of Tibetan culture, adding an authentic touch to this once in a lifetime experience.
Price Range:
Xining - Lhasa: 226 Yuan - 810 Yuan
Journey Time:
Approximately 20 - 22 Hours
Departure Time (2025):
12:50, 21:50, 23:00, 23:35
Note: Prices listed are approximate and given as a range depending on seat type (hard seat, hard sleeper, or soft sleeper). Fares may vary depending on the season and availability, and are subject to change.
02
Hulunbuir Express - Train of Glamour
呼伦贝尔号 - 星享铁旅
The Hulunbuir Express offers a luxurious way to explore one of China's largest and most breathtaking grassland regions. Perfect for families, couples and nature lovers, the train combines comfort with panoramic views of rolling grasslands, grazing horses and traditional Mongolian villages, turning every moment of the journey into an unforgettable experience.
By late October, the scenery changes into a snow-covered grassland with frosted trees, frozen rivers and white mountain slopes, offering a completely different but equally impressive view.
Train Features
The Hulunbuir Express offers a variety of luxury cabins, from the spacious Purple Gold View Rooms with en-suite bathrooms to the comfortable Gold View Rooms and the more private Platinum View Rooms.
Each room comes with branded amenities such as:
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High-grade cotton bedding from Sidefu
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Skincare products from AHAVA
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Voss drinking water (For specific room type)
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International standard plug and USB socket
The train also features a large viewing lounge with overhead screens, allowing passengers to enjoy sweeping views of the landscape. By night, the space transforms into a lively salon with KTV, music, and cultural performances inspired by Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian traditions.
Guests are also supported throughout the journey with attentive 24-hour concierge and tourism ambassaor service.
Dining on board is a treat, with walnut-themed dining car serving Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian dishes. Guests can enjoy everything from seasonal local meals to an exquisite six-course set menu prepared with fresh ingredients.
Unique Landscape
The Hulunbuir region is known for its wide-open grasslands, lakes, rivers, and distant forested hills, offering a sense of untouched natural beauty. Passengers on the Hulunbuir Express can also spot wildlife like deers and yaks, and glimpse the nomadic traditions of Mongolian villages and yurts along the way.
During winter, the snow-covered plains and mountains create a serene, and jaw-dropping views, giving the journey a completely different feel from the warmer months.
03
Xi'an - Chengdu High Speed Train
西安-成都高铁
The Xi'an-Chengdu High-Speed Train is a milestone in China's rail history. Connecting Shaanxi and Sichuan Provinces, crossing the Qinling Mountains. Beyond its engineering feat, it links two popular tourist destinations in just 3-hours, compared to the previous 16, making same-day round trips possible.
This route is ideal for tourists, history and culture enthusiasts, and travelers who want a fast, convenient way to explore central China.
Train Features
The Xi'an-Chengdu High Speed Train offers a comfortable journey with air conditioning,hot water dispensers, Wi-Fi (though not always available) and toilets.
There are three seat classes:
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Second Class (More Affordable Option)
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First Class (Wider Seats)
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Business Class (Extra Space and Luxurious)
Seats are able to recline with most trains having power outlets. Ensuring comfort and space to relax while enjoying passing scenery.
Unique Landscape
Traveling from Xi'an to Chengdu on high-speed rail is more than just a commute, it is a journey through dramatically changing landscapes. From the golden, rugged hills of the Loess Plateau to the lush, forested slopes of the Qinling Mountains, the journey blends stark northern beauty with serene southern greenery.
Descending into the Sichuan Basin, fields of rice paddies and winding rivers appear before the urban vibrancy of Chengdu takes over. In just a few hours, travelers experience a breathtaking cross-section of China's diverse terrain.
04
Silk Road Express - Train of Glamour
丝路梦享号 - 星享铁旅
The Silk Road Express blends luxury with history, guiding travelers along the legendary Silk Road through breathtaking landscapes and ancient wonders. Perfect for families, culture seekers, history enthusiasts, and luxury lovers, it turns every mile into a poetic adventure. Escape the ordinary and experience a journey that is as immersive as it is unforgettable.
Train Features
The Silk Road Express offers 38 luxurious cabins, from Grand Suites to King, Twin, and Family Rooms. All feature private bathrooms with smart TOTO toilets, THG fixtures, Serta bedding, and custom DOMETIC mini-fridges.
Only the Grand Suites offer in-room dining, a cozy sofa, and a daytime scenic mode to fully enjoy the Silk Road vistas from your room.
The Silk Road Express features a multifunctional entertainment carriage inspired by ancient Chang'an, with intricate wooden carvings and ambient lighting. By day, panoramic windows connect you with the natural landscapes; by night, a projection screen offers movies. Guests can enjoy KTV, tea, automatic mahjong, and cigar rooms, with one free hour in KTV or chess/card rooms per reservation.
Premium services include 24/7 dedicated concierges who provide warm turn-down service, along with complimentary fruits, nuts, milk, and snacks in each room. Guests also receive personalized guidance from tourism ambassadors and one free laundry or dry-cleaning service per room.
The Silk Road Express offers exquisite dining with fresh, high-quality ingredients and locally inspired flavors. Guests enjoy meals served with antique silverware, Jingdezhen porcelain, French cutlery, and German glassware, while fresh juices, ground coffee, and beverages flow throughout the journey. Menus refresh regularly, and the two dining cars combine Chinese and Western décor for a truly elegant experience.
Unique Landscape
Traveling on the Silk Road Express is a journey through time and nature. Glide past the golden Gobi Desert, shimmering salt lakes, and the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, each view more breathtaking than the last.
Stops in oasis towns like Dunhuang and Kashgar reveal vibrant markets and ancient architecture, while UNESCO World Heritage sites highlight the Silk Road's rich history. Every mile blends natural beauty and culture, making the ride
memorable.
05
Urumuqi High-Speed Train
乌鲁木齐高铁
The Urumqi High-Speed Train connects the capital of Xinjiang with major cities across China, offering a fast, comfortable, and modern travel experience. Designed efficiently without sacrificing comfort, it allows travelers to traverse vast distances in a fraction of the time.
Perfect for business travelers, culture seekers, and adventure enthusiasts, it makes exploring Xinjiang's rich culture and landscapes easier than ever.
Train Features
The train offers spacious seating, air-conditioned carriages, and large panoramic windows for scenic views. Passengers enjoy modern amenities like power outlets, Wi-Fi on select routes, and clean onboard facilities. Speed, safety, and comfort are combined to suit both leisure and business travel.
Unique Landscape
Travelers witness Xinjiang's diverse terrain, from arid deserts to green oasis around Urumqi. Rolling plains, distant mountains, salt lakes, and glimpses of ancient towns and farmland create ever-changing scenery along the route.
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