How to Get From Shanghai to Hangzhou 2025

Shanghai is China’s most cosmopolitan city, known for its modern skyline, historic sites, international dining, shopping and vibrant nightlife. It’s a global financial hub and the largest city in China.

Hangzhou is a more relaxed, scenic city renowned for its stunning West Lake, ancient temples, tea culture and lush landscapes. It’s often considered one of China’s most beautiful cities.

Combining Shanghai and Hangzhou in one trip offers a beautiful mix of urban energy and serene nature. In Shanghai, you can explore the fast-paced city life, stunning modern architecture and international culture, while Hangzhou provides a peaceful retreat into traditional Chinese beauty with its lakes, temples and tea culture. How to get from Shanghai to Hangzhou? This article provides you a comprehensive guide.

Most Recommended Way: High-Speed Train

The distance between Shanghai and Hangzhou is about 180 kilometers. And the most convenient and recommended way to get to Hangzhou from Shanghai is by high-speed train(bullet train), taking about 1-1.5 hours. There are many high-speed trains from Shanghai to Hangzhou every day from 6:00 to 23:00, which is very convenient for domestic and foreign tourists.

Railway Stations in Shanghai

Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station(上海虹桥火车站) is the largest and most modern railway station in the city. It is a major hub for high-speed trains and intercity trains, connecting Shanghai with cities across China.

Shanghai Railway Station(上海火车站) is located in the Zhabei District (now part of the Jing'an District), near People's Square. It is one of the oldest and busiest railway stations in Shanghai, serving as the central hub for long-distance trains to cities across China.

Shanghai South Railway Station(上海南站)is located in Xuhui District, the southern part of Shanghai, near Shanghai South Bus Station. It primarily serves trains traveling to and from the southern regions of China.

Shanghai’s main railway stations are Hongqiao, Shanghai Railway Station, and Shanghai South Railway Station, which cover a broad range of high-speed, intercity, and long-distance trains. Whether you're heading to nearby cities like Hangzhou or farther destinations like Beijing or Guangzhou, these stations provide convenient options. If you're flying into Pudong Airport, the Maglev Train Station is an efficient and exciting way to reach the city center in just a few minutes.

Railway Stations in Hangzhou

Hangzhou East Railway Station(杭州东站) is situated in the Jianggan District, about 10 km from West Lake. It is the main and most modern railway station in Hangzhou, serving high-speed trains and a range of intercity connections. It’s the most convenient station for travelers coming from Shanghai and other cities in China.

Hangzhou Railway Station(杭州火车站) is located near Wulin Square in the Shangcheng District, which is a central area of the city. It is the original railway station in Hangzhou, it’s still one of the busiest stations, especially for traditional and long-distance trains.

Hangzhou West Railway Station(杭州西站) is a newer and less busy station, serving as an alternative for travelers heading to certain regions or coming from the west.It is located in the Xihu District, which is near the West Lake area but further out compared to the central Hangzhou Railway Station and East Railway Station.

Hangzhou South Railway Station(杭州南站) is a smaller, lesser-known station, mainly serving regional trains and more local routes.It is located in the southern part of the city, in the Fuyang District, it's farther from the city center and main attractions like West Lake.

Hangzhou North Railway Station (杭州北站) primarily serves as a minor transit point for certain routes and is less popular compared to the other stations.It is located in the Yuhang District, a bit farther from the city center.

How to Explore the Surrounding Area of Shanghai

Shanghai-Suzhou(30-40 minutes by high-speed train)

Suzhou is known as the Venice of the East. And Suzhou is famous for its classical Chinese gardens, water towns and silk industry. In Suzhou, you can stroll around the Lingering Garden, Humble Administrator’s Garden and Lion Grove.

Hangzhou(1-1.5 hours by high-speed train)

With picturesque scenery, rich history and tea culture, Hangzhou is a nice destination to travel from Shanghai. Taking a boat on the West Lake, tasting fresh Longjing tea, strolling around the West Lake, burn incense and worship at the Lingyin Temple are things you can do in Hangzhou.