Beijing → Xi'an → Shanghai
A classic first-time route combining imperial Beijing, ancient Xi'an and modern Shanghai.
Shanghai → Suzhou → Hangzhou
A compact eastern-China route with frequent rail service and plenty of options for day trips versus hotel changes.
Chengdu ↔ Chongqing
Two major southwest cities connected by frequent fast trains, useful for food, city and regional excursions.
Guangzhou → Shenzhen → Hong Kong
A Greater Bay Area route where border procedures and the exact Hong Kong high-speed rail booking need to be planned in advance.
Nanjing → Suzhou → Shanghai
Dense Yangtze River Delta rail service makes it practical to compare staying in one base with moving hotels.
Schedules and entry rules change. Use the official 12306 service and confirm cross-border requirements before finalizing hotels.