You can easily enter China by rail from Europe or Asia. Travelling across China by rail affords you the greatest opportunity to see the breath of this vast country quickly and comfortably. Many of China's railways have first-class train compartments. Popular points of entry are from Europe on the Trans-Siberian Express, or from Asia via the Beijing-Vietnam Train , the Beijing-Kowloon Train and the Shanghai-Kowloon Train.

Domestic Transportation By Air

During the last few years, China has modernized its domestic air, train, and highway systems to meet the influx and demands of foreign travellers. If you need to make domestic flight reservations during your trip, they can be arranged through the hotel travel desk or at one of the many travel agency services in China.

Some routes are heavily travelled, so it is wise to book as far in advance as possible. Travelling around China by air is a snap, as virtually all of China is linked by air. Shanghai is less than two hours from Beijing. Shanghai is also a two-hour flight from Hong Kong. These three cities have connecting flights to small cities throughout China. Click here for more information on Chinese domestic airlines.

By Rail
Travel by rail is an enjoyable, relaxing, and inexpensive way to see China's countryside. New or modernized equipment has replaced the old train systems in most areas. Travellers who lack the time to cover vast distances by train can still get a delightful taste of rail travel by journeying on popular short-distance routes. Some examples of travel time by train: 15 hours from Shanghai to Beijing, 2 hours from Shanghai to Hangzhou, and 45 minutes from Shanghai to Suzhou. A train from Hong Kong to Beijing takes 28 hours. A train from Xi'an to Beijing takes 14 hours. Normally, hotels provide the booking service for their guests. For more information on train schedule and price, please click here.

By Bus
Buses are now another excellent option. With the development over the last decade of a "National Highway system", luxurious coaches have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation for tourists.

By Taxi
Taxis are available in all of China's major cities. Always carry your hotel card with you, and ask the hotel concierge to write down the address of your destination in Chinese characters. 
Although in larger cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, English is widely spoken among the taxi drivers, many drivers in other cities may not understand English well.

By Bicycle Bicycles are available for rent throughout China. For short haul or for more ambitious jaunts-cycling is the way to see the country up close. Cycling trips can be booked ahead through local or international travel agents.