Beijing to Shanghai night train
Everything you need to plan the Beijing–Shanghai sleeper: operators, cabins, times, prices and rail-pass rules.
From €38 We link to the operator — we never mark up the fare.
Cabins & typical prices
Arriving in Shanghai: top-rated tours
Booked on Civitatis.
Why take this train
A genuine surviving overnight option on China's busiest and most modernised corridor- Saves a hotel night versus the roughly 4.5-hour daytime high-speed alternative
- Newer CR200J 'Revival Green' sleeper sets offer lockable 4-berth soft-sleeper compartments
- Only a 15-day advance booking window, far shorter than most other countries
- China uses a single national time zone despite its geographic width
Rail passes & reservations
No regional rail pass covers China; tickets release exactly 15 days before departure via 12306.cn. Exact current fares and station pairings should be reconfirmed close to travel, as this corridor is dominated by faster daytime high-speed trains and conventional overnight timetables shift periodically.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Beijing to Shanghai night train take?
The journey takes about 11h 30m, travelling overnight so you arrive the next morning.
How much does the Beijing–Shanghai sleeper cost?
Fares start from around €38 and rise with demand and cabin type. Booking early gets the lowest prices.
Is the Beijing to Shanghai train covered by Eurail or Interrail?
No — this operator does not accept Eurail or Interrail; buy a ticket directly.
What cabin types are available?
You can choose between couchette and sleeper cabin. A berth reservation is required.