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Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train, Shanghai to Harbin Bullet Train

Written by Lydia|Updated: 2024-12-16

Shanghai, a global financial hub, blends modern skyscrapers with historic landmarks, while Harbin, known as the "Ice City," captivates visitors with its Russian-influenced architecture and winter wonders.

Connecting these two iconic cities, the Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train offers a remarkable journey spanning 2,422 kilometers in just over 12 hours. While the overnight train takes 24 hours, covering a distance of 2,553 kilometers.

If you don't want to spend too much time on transferring between the two destinations, consider direct flights from Shanghai to Harbin or a combination of flights and China high-speed rail.

This article provides a Shanghai to Harbin Train Guide to the high-speed train options, schedules, tickets fares, ticket booking methods, optional transfer ideas, and travel planning tips, ensuring you make the most of your Shanghai to Harbin adventure.

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  • triangleShanghai to Harbin Distance & Train Route Map: About 2422 Kilometers
  • triangleQuick Facts about the Shanghai to Harbin Train
  • triangleShanghai to Harbin Train Schedule
  • triangleShanghai to Harbin High Speed Train Prices & Seating
  • triangleHow to Book Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train Tickets?
  • triangleDeparture & Arrival Stations for Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train
  • triangleShanghai to Harbin Bullet Train or Flight: How to Pick?
  • triangleOptional Transfer Ideas from Shanghai to Harbin
  • triangleTravel Plan from Shanghai to Harbin
  • triangleBook & Start with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) on a Shanghai to Harbin Train Tour

Shanghai to Harbin Distance & Train Route Map: About 2422 Kilometers

The high-speed train journey from Shanghai to Harbin spans approximately 2,422 kilometers and takes just over 12 hours.

Traveling by high-speed rail, you’ll cross eastern China, passing through provinces and cities including Shanghai, Jiangsu, Anhui, Shandong, Hebei, Tianjin, Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang.

Fast travel in China
Fast travel in China
Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train Map
Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train Map

Quick Facts about the Shanghai to Harbin Train

Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train

Train G1204/G1202 operates between Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (上海虹桥站) and Harbin West Railway Station (哈尔滨西站), covering the full distance of 2,422 kilometers in 12 hours and 12 minutes.

  • Train Model: CR400BF-GZ
  • Speed: 200-250km/h
  • Duration: 12h 12m
  • Seating Options: Second Class, First Class and Business Class
  • Ticket Fares: RMB ¥1110 for Second Class seats, ¥1787.5 for First Class seats, and ¥3696 for Business Class seats (the prices may fluctuate with discounts)
  • Departure: 09:33 from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station
  • Arrival: 21:45 at Harbin West Railway Station
  • Train Frequency: 1 pair of high speed trains run daily between Shanghai and Harbin

Shanghai to Harbin Overnight Train

For those seeking a slower pace, the Z172/Z174 overnight train runs daily between Shanghai Railway Station (上海站) and Harbin West Railway Station (哈尔滨西站). This classic rail experience covers 2,553 kilometers in 24 hours.

  • Speed: 100-150km/h
  • Duration: 24h 3m
  • Seating Options:
  • Ticket Fares: RMB ¥273.5 for hard seats, ¥463.5-496.5 for hard sleepers, and ¥734.5-767.5 for soft sleepers (the prices may fluctuate with discounts)
  • Departure: 19:34 from Shanghai Railway Station
  • Arrival: 19:37 (next day) at Harbin West Railway Station
  • Train Frequency: 1 pair of sleeper trains run daily between Shanghai and Harbin

Shanghai to Harbin Train Schedule

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Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train Prices & Seating

The table below provides a reference for ticket prices and seating options for the Shanghai to Harbin high-speed train. Always confirm current details on the day of purchase.

Seating Options Facilities Prices (¥)
Second Class 3+2 seating arrangement with reclining backrests and decent legroom, a foldable table, access to snack cart, dining car & public restrooms. 1110
First Class 3+2 seating arrangement with reclining backrests and generous legroom, a small table, complimentary bottled water and snacks, access to snack cart, dining car & public restrooms. 1787.5
Business Class 2+1 or 1+1 seating arrangements, leather seats that recline fully into flat beds, along with personal tables, blankets, and slippers for added comfort, complimentary meals and a premium cabin atmosphere. 3696

Second, First or Business Class Seats, How to Choose?

Comfort Business Class Seats
Comfort Business Class Seats
First Class
First Class

If you're on a budget, Second Class is the most affordable option, offering adequate comfort for short trips but less ideal for the 12-hour journey.

First Class provides a balance of cost and comfort, with spacious, reclining seats perfect for families or anyone seeking a relaxing ride.

For ultimate luxury, Business Class offers fully reclining seats, premium amenities, and a serene environment, ideal for those who prioritize comfort and convenience.

How to Book Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train Tickets?

Book on 12306 or Trip

Use apps like 12306 or Trip to book your tickets. Enter your travel details, choose your preferred train and seating class, and confirm your booking with valid passport information. These platforms offer real-time schedules, seat availability, and secure payment options via credit card, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.

Book Through AOT & Get Private Transfer Services in Shanghai and Harbin

For convenience, book through Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT). This agency not only arranges train tickets but also provides customized travel plans, private transfers, and guided tours in Shanghai and Harbin.

Departure & Arrival Stations for Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train

Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station
上海虹桥站
No.1500 Shenggui Road, Minhang District, Shanghai
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is super close to Hongqiao Airport, and it's only about a 20 km journey to downtown Shanghai. You've got lots of options to get there: subway lines 10, 17, or 2, bus, or taxi. It takes about 1 hour.
Harbin West Railway Station
Harbin West Railway Station
哈尔滨西站
No. 501 Harbin Street, Nangang District, Harbin, Heilongjiang
Harbin West Station is well-connected by Metro Line 3, shuttles, long-distance coaches, taxis, and private vehicles, offering convenient access to major attractions. It’s 9km from the Snowman Pier at the Bund (45mins by metro and bus), 14km from the Central Avenue (40mins by metro), and 15km from the Saint Sophia Cathedral (50mins by metro).

Shanghai to Harbin Bullet Train or Flight: How to Pick?

Flights from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Harbin Taiping International Airport take about 3 hours, significantly faster than the 12-hour high-speed train journey.

If you’re short on time, flying is the better option, though airfare can rise significantly during Harbin’s peak winter tourism season. Monitor ticket prices closely before booking.

For those eager to experience the high-speed train, be prepared for a long journey with essentials like snacks, a neck pillow, and a power bank. For your return, consider flying to save time.

Optional Transfer Ideas from Shanghai to Harbin

During the peak winter travel season in Harbin, the Shanghai to Harbin high-speed train tickets can be hard to secure. If unavailable, consider alternative transfer options:

Option 1: Shanghai Flight to Changchun – Changchun High Speed Train to Harbin

  • Flights from Shanghai to Changchun: 2.5-3 hours
  • High Speed Trains from Changchun to Harbin: 1-1.5 hours
  • Overall Travel Time: Up to 4.5 hours

Option 2: Shanghai Flight to Shenyang – Shenyang High Speed Train to Harbin

  • Flights from Shanghai to Shenyang: 2-3 hours
  • High Speed Trains from Shenyang to Harbin: 2-3 hours
  • Overall Travel Time: Up to 6 hours

Option 3: Shanghai Flight to Dalian – Dalian High Speed Train to Harbin

  • Flights from Shanghai to Dalian: 1.5-2 hours
  • High Speed Trains from Dalian to Harbin: 3.5-5 hours
  • Overall Travel Time: Up to 7 hours

Note:

1. Note that additional time may be required for transportation between airports and train stations in these transfer cities – Changchun, Shenyang and Dalian.

2. Check real-time conditions for the most accurate travel options.

Travel Plan from Shanghai to Harbin

High-speed train travel from Shanghai to Harbin takes a full day. Plan your stay with 2–4 days in Shanghai and 3–7 days in Harbin, to make the most of your trip.

To combine the two destinations, 5-7 days allows you to capture the highlights of Shanghai and Harbin.

In Shanghai (2-4 Days)

Oriental Pearl Tower
Oriental Pearl Tower
Visit the Bund in Small Group with AOT
Visit the Bund in Small Group with AOT

2–3 Days for a Shanghai City Tour to discover Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, such as:

  • The Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower
  • The Bund (外滩), blending historic European buildings with a modern skyline
  • Yu Garden (豫园), the French Concession, and Xintiandi (新天地) for heritage and cultural exploration

Add One Day for Disneyland & Zhujiajiao Water Town:

  • Spend an extra day at Disneyland Park, Asia’s largest, for family-friendly entertainment.
  • Visit Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角镇), a charming canal town known as "Shanghai's Venice."

In Harbin (3-7 Days)

Sun Island, Habin
Sun Island, Habin
Sun Island, Habin
Sun Island, Habin

3 Days to Experience Harbin's Highlights: Known as the “Ice City” and “Moscow of the East,” Harbin offers unique cultural and natural attractions. Highlights include:

  • Siberian Tiger Park (东北虎林园)
  • Ice and Snow World (冰雪大世界)
  • Sun Island Snow Sculpture Art Expo (太阳岛雪博会)
  • Snowman Pier at the Harbin Bund (外滩雪人码头)
  • Landmarks like Saint Sophia Cathedral, Central Pedestrian Street, and the Baroque-style Lao Daowai District (老道外街区)

5–6 Days to Explore China Snow Town or Yabuli Ski Resort: Add 2-3 days to visit China Snow Town (中国雪乡) or head for Yabuli Ski Resort (亚布力滑雪旅游度假区) for skiing and immerse yourself in China’s winter wonderland.

7 Days to Unlock Northeast China’s Best Winter Scenery: For a full experience, explore breathtaking destinations, such as:

  • Jingpo Lake (镜泊湖) Ice Waterfall
  • Erdao Baihe Town (二道白河镇) for enchanting rime views, a coating of ice
  • Changbai Mountain (长白山) with a full day for its majestic beauty

Suggested 5-Day Travel Itinerary from Shanghai to Harbin

Day 1 Arrival in Shanghai | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in

Day 2 Shanghai City Tour | Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden & Bazaar, Nanjing Road, The Bund, Shangghai Tower

Day 3 Shanghai to Harbin by Flight | Airport Transfers and Hotel Check-in

Day 4 Harbin Ice and Snow Festival Tour | Siberian Tiger Park, Ice, Sun Island, Harbin Ice and Snow World

Day 5 Harbin Local Tour & Departure | Morning Market, Winter Swimming Show, St. Sophia Cathedral, Stalin Park, Central Street, Lao Daowai

Book & Start with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) on a Shanghai to Harbin Train Tour

For a seamless travel experience on the Shanghai to Harbin High Speed Train, look no further than Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT). AOT goes beyond ticket booking by offering tailored travel plans, private transfer services, and guided tours in both cities.

Whether you're planning to explore Shanghai's vibrant skyline or Harbin's enchanting ice and snow culture, AOT ensures a stress-free, enjoyable journey. Trust AOT to handle the details while you focus on making lasting memories!

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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