Beijing Bullet Train

China is home to the world’s largest network of high-speed rails, and many of them connect Beijing with other notable destinations in China. The longest route extends all the way from Beijing south to Guangzhou, at its fastest, the train moves at 187 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour).

What was once a minimum 9-hour journey between Beijing and Shanghai now takes just over five hours on the bullet train. It takes about 5.5 hours to get to Xian from Beijing, making the bullet train a more economical -- and just as fast once you factor in check-in and security lines -- alternative to flying.

The trains are quiet, fast and efficient, and riding the bullet train from Beijing gives you an opportunity to see a bit of Chinese countryside rarely seen by tourists who opt to fly. You can purchase tickets for the bullet train up to 10 days before your trip. Remember to check which station your train is departing from, as Beijing has several stations.