On the Shanghai to Jiangyan route, the quickest option pairs a G‑series high‑speed train with a D‑series connector. Take a G train from Shanghai Hongqiao to Nanjing South or Zhenjiang South on the Beijing–Shanghai High‑Speed Railway, running at 300–350 km/h (186–217 mph). From there, transfer to a D‑series CRH service toward Taizhou/Jiangyan on the Nanjing–Qidong corridor, which typically operates at 160–200 km/h (99–124 mph). With a tight connection, the full journey can be around 3 to 4 hours, as the high‑speed leg makes fewer stops while the regional D‑train serves more county‑level stations north of the Yangtze River.
There are also through D‑series trains from Shanghai (usually departing Shanghai Station) to Jiangyan on the same corridor, without changing trains. These run at 160–200 km/h (99–124 mph) and generally take about 4 to 5 hours due to additional intermediate stops. G and D services offer reserved seating in Second and First Class, and some G‑series legs include Business Class. Expect air‑conditioned coaches, power outlets, and onboard trolley service. Note that Jiangyan is not located on a 300–350 km/h high‑speed line, so there is no end‑to‑end G‑series service at this time.