China’s vast landscapes unfold dramatically from the window of a train, making rail travel one of the best ways to explore the country. From the world’s highest railway across the Tibetan Plateau to Silk Road deserts and misty Yellow Mountains, these top 10 scenic train journeys in China combine comfort, speed, and unforgettable views. Whether you prefer high-speed bullet trains or classic overnight sleepers, these routes offer nature, culture, and adventure in one seamless experience.
1. Qinghai–Tibet Railway (Xining to Lhasa)
The Qinghai–Tibet Railway is the world’s highest railway and one of the most scenic train journeys in China. Stretching from Xining to Lhasa, this 20+ hour adventure crosses the Tibetan Plateau at elevations above 5,000 meters. Expect breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, endless grasslands dotted with yaks, and shimmering lakes like Namtso. Oxygen-enriched cabins make high-altitude travel more comfortable, especially in soft sleeper compartments. Summer offers the clearest skies and lush scenery. Trains such as Z21 run daily, and Tibet travel permits are required. For bucket-list travelers, this iconic route delivers unmatched Himalayan drama and cultural immersion.
2. Beijing to Harbin
The Beijing to Harbin train journey showcases northern China’s dramatic seasonal beauty. In winter, the landscape transforms into snowy forests and frozen rivers, perfectly timed for Harbin’s famous Ice and Snow Festival. During summer, green plains and rural villages stretch across the horizon. High-speed G trains complete the trip in about five hours, while standard trains take longer but offer a leisurely ride through the countryside. This route blends modern rail efficiency with raw northern charm, making it one of the best scenic train rides in China for travelers seeking winter wonderlands or refreshing summer scenery.
3. Guilin to Yangshuo
Short but spectacular, the Guilin to Yangshuo train ride highlights China’s iconic karst landscapes. In just one to two hours, travelers pass limestone peaks, winding rivers, rice paddies, and traditional villages that look straight out of a Chinese ink painting. Spring is particularly beautiful when greenery is vibrant, and the Li River sparkles under soft sunlight. This route pairs perfectly with visits to Guilin’s Reed Flute Cave and Yangshuo’s cycling trails and bamboo rafting experiences. Though brief, it remains one of the most photogenic scenic train journeys in China, ideal for nature lovers and first-time visitors.
4. Shanghai to Chengdu
Traveling from Shanghai to Chengdu by high-speed train reveals China’s striking east-to-west contrast. Over roughly 11 hours, futuristic skyscrapers give way to bamboo forests, misty mountains, and fertile Sichuan hills. The modern Fuxing bullet trains ensure a smooth, comfortable ride while offering panoramic views of rice terraces and river valleys. As you approach Chengdu, the landscape becomes greener and more mountainous, home to the region’s famous giant pandas. This journey perfectly blends urban sophistication with western China’s natural beauty, making it one of the most diverse and scenic train routes in China year-round.
5. Beijing to Lanzhou (Silk Road Route)
The Beijing to Lanzhou railway follows part of the historic Silk Road, delivering dramatic desert and river scenery. Over 12 to 15 hours, travelers witness the Great Wall’s distant watchtowers, the winding Yellow River, and the golden hues of the Loess Plateau. The terrain gradually shifts from urban plains to arid landscapes rich with history and trade-route heritage. Autumn provides cooler temperatures and vivid colors, enhancing the stark beauty of Gansu Province. Ideal for photographers and history enthusiasts, this scenic train journey in China captures the spirit of ancient caravans and timeless desert horizons.
6. Kunming to Dali
The Kunming to Dali high-speed train offers one of Yunnan’s most picturesque short journeys. In about two hours, passengers glide past terraced fields, misty mountains, and the shimmering waters of Erhai Lake. Spring is especially stunning when flowers bloom, and rice paddies glow green. This route also highlights Yunnan’s ethnic diversity, including Bai minority villages near Dali’s charming old town. Comfortable bullet trains make the ride smooth and efficient, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenery without long travel times. For those seeking culture and nature combined, this is one of China’s most relaxing scenic train rides.
7. Xi’an to Lanzhou
Connecting the ancient capital of Xi’an with Lanzhou, this six to eight-hour journey crosses the rugged Loess Plateau. Deep gullies, yellow earth cliffs, and stretches of the Huang He (Yellow River) create a dramatic backdrop. The route reflects China’s transition from the central plains to the northwestern deserts, echoing centuries of Silk Road history. Fall is the best season for clear skies and earthy tones that intensify the plateau’s texture. History lovers may even spot old watchtowers along the way. This scenic train journey in China combines geological wonder with deep cultural significance.
8. Qingdao to Lijiang
The Qingdao to Lijiang route is a long but rewarding rail adventure spanning coastal shores to highland snow peaks. Over 20 hours or more, the scenery transforms from seaside cityscapes and forests to the towering Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Yunnan. Elevation changes add dramatic variety, while glimpses of traditional Naxi architecture signal arrival in Lijiang’s UNESCO-listed old town. Winter snow enhances the alpine atmosphere, creating postcard-worthy views. This journey showcases China’s geographic diversity in a single trip, making it one of the most unique and scenic long-distance train rides in China.
9. Lanzhou to Urumqi
Traveling from Lanzhou to Urumqi immerses passengers in the vast landscapes of China’s northwest. In about 12 hours, trains cross deserts, steppes, and oasis towns along the ancient Silk Road. Highlights include Jiayuguan Pass, colorful Danxia landforms, and the dramatic Turpan Basin. Modern D-trains such as D55 offer comfort while traversing Xinjiang’s striking terrain. Summer is the best time for clear views and accessible attractions. This scenic train journey in China combines cultural heritage with raw desert beauty, offering a glimpse into one of the country’s most remote and fascinating regions.
10. Hangzhou to Huangshan
The Hangzhou to Huangshan bullet train is a short yet unforgettable journey through eastern China’s poetic landscapes. In just two to three hours, passengers approach the mist-covered peaks of Yellow Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for inspiring classical ink paintings. Along the way, traditional Huizhou villages and rolling green hills enhance the experience. Autumn is particularly magical, with crisp air and golden foliage framing the granite summits. Perfect for weekend travelers, this scenic train ride in China blends cultural heritage, natural beauty, and high-speed convenience into one picturesque adventure.
Final Travel Tips
Book tickets through Trip.com or the official China Railway 12306 app for the best availability. Reserve soft sleepers for overnight trips and check seasonal highlights before planning. Whether you’re chasing snowy forests, desert sunsets, or mountain mists, these top scenic train journeys in China for 2026 promise unforgettable views and seamless travel experiences.