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
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 from Couchette, Sleeper Cabin. A reservation for your berth is reservation required.