Train vs flight
Beijing to Nanjing
北京 → 南京
Close call — most locals take the train
The train is only 1h 20m slower station-to-station, and stations are usually closer to town than airports. You also get signal the whole way and can use a laptop.
🚄 High-speed train
4h 20m
Typical run time 4h + 20 min at the station
- From
- Beijing South Railway Station 北京南站~7 km from centre
- To
- Nanjing South Railway Station 南京南站~9 km from centre
✈ Flight
Fastest3h
Typical flight 2h + 60 min at the airport
- From
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)~25 km from centre
- To
- Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG)~38 km from centre
How we count: station-to-station (or airport-to-airport) only — median scheduled time plus 20 min for trains or 60 min for flights. We don’t guess how long it takes to reach the station from your hotel. Estimate — verification pending
What the journey is like
| 🚄 Train | ✈ Flight | |
|---|---|---|
| Luggage | No weigh-in; you lift bags onto the rack yourself. Large suitcases go at the end of the carriage. | Domestic economy usually includes ~20 kg checked; power banks must be carry-on. |
| Signal & Wi-Fi | Mobile signal most of the way; some trains have Wi-Fi. | Phone off at take-off; Wi-Fi rare on domestic flights. |
| Work on a laptop | Yes — tray tables and sockets on most high-speed trains. | Only in the air, briefly. |
| ID checks | Your passport is your ticket. Many stations have e-gates that read foreign passports; otherwise use the staffed lane. | Passport at check-in and security; arrive 1.5–2h early. |
| Delays | Very punctual. | Air-traffic delays are common, especially in summer storms. |
How to book
Book trains on Trip.com (English, small fee) or the official 12306 app (English, no fee, passport registration needed). Tickets open about 15 days ahead and sell out around holidays. Flights: Trip.com or the airline’s own app.
FAQ
How long is the train from Beijing to Nanjing?
About 4h on a typical high-speed train. Allow ~4h 20m including getting through the station.
Which station does the Beijing–Nanjing train leave from?
Most trains leave from Beijing South Railway Station (北京南站) and arrive at Nanjing South Railway Station (南京南站). Always check the station name on your ticket.
Is it better to fly or take the train from Beijing to Nanjing?
Close call — most locals take the train. The train is only 1h 20m slower station-to-station, and stations are usually closer to town than airports. You also get signal the whole way and can use a laptop.