What must surely be the world’s longest high-speed rail line opens on September 23.
The new rail link means Hong Kong will be directly linked to Beijing in just nine hours by a daytime high-speed train.
Initially there will be one through service daily in each direction which will run at an average speed of 168 mph.
There will be additional services available linking Hong Kong with other points in mainland China but these may require travellers to change en route.
Previously our forum readers have expressed interest in sampling China’s high-speed rail network (easily the world’s largest) and now the perfect opportunity has presented itself.
The service is expected to depart Hong Kong (West Kowloon) at 0805 to arrive into Beijing West at 1701.
In the return direction it is expected to depart at 1000 from Beijing West to arrive Hong Kong 1858.
It is understood that Customs and Immigration formalities will take place before departure at Hong Kong and it is suggested passengers arrive 90 mins before departure. And remember the visa requirements for visiting mainland China.
In the return direction these formalities are set to take place upon arrival in Hong Kong.
Would-be travellers are recommended to check the above details (and the required Beijing check-in times) when purchasing tickets.
Typical Beijing-Hong Kong one-way fares are estimated to cost US$157 standard, US$252 first and US$491 business class.
Either purchase tickets online in advance or purchase after you arrive.
And again we recommend you double-check timings and so on.
Business Traveller will provide more details as and when they become available.
Further information is available at china-diy-travel.com.
