Shanghai → Xi'an
2026-10-21 · live availability
Live availability for Shanghai → Xi'an could not be loaded right now. The timetable changes daily, so search above to see today's departures.
Shanghai–Xi’an via the Xuzhou–Lanzhou high-speed line
Long enough to need planning, short enough to do in a day if you leave early.
The route runs west through Nanjing and Zhengzhou before turning towards the Wei River valley. Xi’an North is the terminus for almost all of these trains, and it connects to the metro; the Terracotta Army site is a further bus or taxi ride from the city.
- Book a morning departure if you want the afternoon in Xi’an — the run is around six hours.
- Xi’an North is north of the city wall; the metro takes about 30 minutes to reach the old centre.
Train Schedules
| Train | Departure time | Arrival | Shortest | From → To | from | Class |
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FAQ
How long does the train from Shanghai to Xi'an take?
Journey times are listed for every departure in the timetable above.
How much is a train ticket from Shanghai to Xi'an?
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.