China’s Railway Network Achieves Historic Milestone in 2025 with Over Two Billion Passenger Journeys and Unmatched Expansion in High-Speed Rail Services

In 2025, the passengers who traveled on China’s rails for six months reaches a new record total of over 2.24 billion, the most in a six-month period. This extraordinary feat of engineering reflects the astonishing scale and upgrading of China’s rail infrastructure, and the development of its high-speed train services as an increasingly central part of the nation’s capacity to move around. Passenger numbers rise due to network expansion, new routes and popularity of rail tourism The growth of … Continued. Fueling this economic engine is China’s railway system, which not only has grown in recent years in ways that would make the Empire builders of yesteryear envious, but has transformed how people move from one part of the country to another, leaving the country at the forefront in a field it is working to export across the globe.

In the first half of 2025, China’s railway network reached an impressive new milestone, facilitating 2.24 billion passenger journeys, which represents a 6.7 percent rise over the previous year the previous year. This surge in travel underscores the growth of China’s extensive and advanced rail network, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating national mobility and driving the country’s economic development.

According to data from China State Railway Group, this marks the highest number of passenger trips ever recorded within a six-month period in the country’s history. The record-breaking rise is attributed to several factors, including expanded network capacity, enhanced service offerings, and growing support for both tourism and international travel.

In the first half of the year, China’s railway network ran an average of 11,183 passenger trains daily, reflecting a 7.5 percent increase compared to the prior year. This growth is largely driven by the continued development of high-speed and conventional rail lines, along with the introduction of new routes and stations. Notably, the new Chongqing East-Qianjiang section of the Chongqing-Xiamen high-speed railway and the launch of 121 new Fuxing bullet trains contributed to improved service levels and capacity.

Passenger traffic saw a significant spike during key national holidays. On May 1, the opening day of the May Day holiday, China’s rail network recorded an all-time high of 23.1 million passenger trips, establishing a new single-day record.

In addition to increasing travel volume, authorities have focused on diversifying services to meet the evolving needs of passengers. This includes the continued operation of regular-speed public interest trains, the launch of rural vitalization services, and the expansion of cross-border routes. The Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link alone facilitated over 15 million cross-border trips between January and June, a 16.1 percent rise from the previous year.At the same time, cross-border travel on the China-Laos Railway surged by 19.1 percent, with nearly 139,000 passengers traveling between the two countries. Connections with neighboring countries like Russia, Vietnam, and Mongolia also contributed to regional growth in travel and trade.

The influx of international travelers has also bolstered the country’s rail industry. China’s recent relaxation of transit visa policies, combined with tailored services for foreign tourists, has led to a 30.1 percent increase in international rail trips. Over 9.1 million international travelers used the rail system in the first half of 2025, further solidifying China’s appeal as a key destination for global tourists.

Tourism-focused rail services have emerged as a significant growth area, with 972 specialized tourism trains operating nationwide between January and June. This marks a 23.2 percent increase from last year. These trains offer travelers an immersive experience, showcasing China’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Scenic routes are designed to capture the essence of China’s natural beauty, providing tourists with a unique way to explore the country.

One such traveler, 62-year-old Que Chunying, embarked on a six-day journey from Nanchang in Jiangxi province to Fujian province in April. Que was deeply impressed by the cultural performances aboard the train, which included traditional folk songs, dances, and live calligraphy demonstrations. These cultural experiences have become a highlight of the tourism trains, adding an extra layer of engagement for passengers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.

With the summer travel season in full swing, China’s railway system has implemented a new national timetable, effective July 1, to accommodate increased demand. The updated schedule adds 236 new daily passenger trains, bringing the total number of scheduled services to 13,302. This adjustment aims to alleviate congestion during peak travel periods by introducing more trains, increasing station stops, and reducing travel times on popular tourist routes. The changes are expected to make scenic destinations more accessible and enhance the overall travel experience.

In 2025, China’s railway network achieved a historic milestone, with 2.24 billion passenger journeys, driven by expanded high-speed rail services, new routes, and increased international travel. This growth underscores the pivotal role rail transport plays in boosting the nation’s economy and enhancing connectivity.

As China’s railway system continues to expand and innovate, it plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s transportation landscape. With increasing passenger numbers, diversified services, and a focus on tourism, the rail network is poised to maintain its upward trajectory, contributing to both domestic and international travel growth. The nation’s rail industry has undoubtedly become an essential driver of economic prosperity, connecting regions, cultures, and people across the vast expanse of China.

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