China Has the World's Largest High-Speed Rail Network

China has become the undisputed leader in high-speed rail, building the world's largest network in just two decades. Starting from virtually no high-speed rail at the beginning of the 21st century, China now operates approximately 38,000 kilometers of high-speed lines, connecting all of its major megacity clusters. This network accounts for roughly two-thirds of the world's total high-speed railway tracks. The country plans to expand this network to nearly 70,000 kilometers by 2035. This massive infrastructure project has transformed how Chinese citizens travel, with high-speed rail now a competitive alternative to air travel for trips up to 1,000 kilometers. The development showcases China's engineering capabilities and commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure. The trains regularly operate at speeds of 300 to 350 kilometers per hour, making it possible to travel between major cities faster than by air when accounting for airport transit times.