Shanghai → Nanjing
2026-10-25 · live availability
Live availability for Shanghai → Nanjing could not be loaded right now. The timetable changes daily, so search above to see today's departures.
Shanghai–Nanjing high-speed railway
The busiest stretch of the Beijing–Shanghai corridor, and the easiest long day trip from Shanghai.
Trains leave from Hongqiao and from the older Shanghai station, and arrive at Nanjing South, which sits on the metro and has a direct line to the airport. The frequency is high enough that the timetable is rarely the constraint — the constraint is deciding whether you are going for the old city walls or for the museums.
- Nanjing South is well outside the old centre; allow 30–40 minutes on the metro to reach the Ming city wall or the Presidential Palace.
- A few services use Nanjing’s older central station, which is closer to the lake and the city centre — check the station on your ticket.
Train Schedules
| Train | Departure time | Arrival | Shortest | From → To | from | Class |
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FAQ
How long does the train from Shanghai to Nanjing take?
Journey times are listed for every departure in the timetable above.
How much is a train ticket from Shanghai to Nanjing?
Fares depend on the class you choose. Every quote on the results page shows the fare and our service fee separately.
Which station in Shanghai does the train leave from?
Chinese cities often have more than one station. Check the station printed on your ticket rather than the city name.
Do I need to print a ticket?
No. Chinese railway tickets are issued against your passport, not a piece of paper. Carry the same passport you booked with, and staff will scan it at the gate. Keep the booking confirmation on your phone in case a conductor asks which seat is yours.
How far in advance can I book?
Chinese tickets are released about two weeks before departure, and this page only shows dates inside that window. Popular dates and holiday periods sell out early, so book as soon as your travel date appears.
Which class should I book?
Second class is the default on high-speed trains and is comparable to a short-haul airline seat. First and business class add space and recline for a premium. On overnight trains the choice matters more: a hard sleeper is a real bed, a hard seat is not. Our guide to seats and sleepers explains what each one actually looks like.
Popular Routes
Timetable and fares read from China Railway (12306) and last checked on 2026-10-23. Prices include our service fee in US dollars.