Z231 is a Z train route originating from
Shenzhen at 09:30, and arriving at the final destination of
Urumqi at 10:03. The duration of the total journey is
4 hours 28 minutes. There are 23 stops in total:
Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shaoguan East, Chenzhou, Hengyang, Changsha, Yueyang, Wuchang, Xiangyang East, Nanyang, Xian, Baoji, Tianshui, Lanzhou West, Lanzhou, Zhangye West, Wuwei, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Liuyuan, Hami, Turpan North, Urumqi. You can purchase
tickets starting at, and ending at any station. Ticket prices are set on a per kilometer basis.
What’s the different between Business, First and Second class?
Second class is the standard seating which normally takes up 80%+ of the train. Seats are configured in a 3 + 2 arrangement and are spacious compared to plane seats. First class seats are wider, positioned in a 2+2 arrangement, have slightly more legroom and a foldout foot stand. Business class is the top class (Yes, it’s opposite to airplanes), and is typically a 2+1 arrangement. It’s much like first class on a plane, with full lie-flat electric seats and (some) complimentary food.
How fast are the trains?
G trains are the fastest, travelling at 300 km/h on all routes, and 350 km/h on select routes including Beijing to Shanghai. D trains are also quite fast, travelling at 200-250 km/h. Other trains travel between 100-140 km/h and aren’t considered high-speed.
Is there a discount for return tickets?
No, only single direction train tickets can be purchased. Although some services will allow you to purchase return tickets, this is really just two one-way fares and there is no discount.
How far in advance can I purchase China Train Tickets?
You can purchase China Train Tickets up to 30 days in advance (previously it was 60 days). Occasionally, China Rail will do a major timetable adjustment which usually involves adding new trains and routes, and the forward booking window might by as short as 10 days.
