Route Overview
The Xi'an–Chengdu HSR runs 658 km from Xi'an North Station to Chengdu East Station. Its greatest engineering feat is crossing the geologically complex Qinling Mountains — the Qinling tunnel group spans over 110 km, with the longest Tianhuashan Tunnel stretching 15.98 km. The opening of this line ended the ancient proverb "the road to Shu is harder than reaching the sky," reducing travel time from 16 hours to about 3 hours.
Operations
The line operates CRH3A trainsets at a maximum speed of 250 km/h. About 30 train pairs run daily, including both G-series high-speed and D-series EMU services. The full journey takes 3 to 4 hours, with stops at Hanzhong, Guangyuan, Jiangyou, Mianyang, and Deyang. Window seats are recommended for the stunning mountain views through the Qinling section.
Scenery Along the Way
The Xi'an–Chengdu HSR is one of China's most scenic rail journeys. Departing from the Guanzhong Plain, the train gradually ascends into the Qinling Mountains, where layers of peaks rise through mist and clouds. In spring the mountains burst with wildflowers; in autumn the forests blaze with color. Emerging into the Hanzhong Basin, endless rapeseed flower fields stretch to the horizon. Further south past Jianmen Pass and Guangyuan, relics of Three Kingdoms history appear at every turn, before arriving at the fertile Chengdu Plain.
Travel Tips
The Qinling section has many tunnels, so mobile signal may be intermittent — download entertainment content in advance. Due to significant elevation changes through the mountains, some passengers may experience mild ear pressure; chewing gum can help. Xi'an North Station is accessible via Metro Line 2; Chengdu East Station is served by Metro Lines 2 and 7. We recommend spending 2–3 days in each city to fully experience their cuisine and culture.