On the Shanghai to Wuwei (Gansu) route, high-speed services use G- and D-series trains with Second, First, and Business Class seating, while classic long-distance services (Z/T/K series) offer Hard Seat, Hard Sleeper, and Soft Sleeper options. High-speed trains typically run from Shanghai Hongqiao to Lanzhou West, then continue to Wuwei South (Wuwei Nan) on the Lanzhou–Xinjiang High-Speed Railway.
The fastest option combines G-series high-speed segments at 300–350 km/h (186–217 mph) between Shanghai, Nanjing, Xuzhou, Zhengzhou, and Xi’an, then 200–250 km/h (124–155 mph) west of Xi’an toward Lanzhou and Wuwei South. This usually involves one change at Lanzhou West and takes about 10–11 hours, with fewer stops on the fastest G services. By contrast, direct conventional Z/T trains to Wuwei (classic station) top out around 120–160 km/h (75–99 mph) but average 60–80 km/h (37–50 mph), taking roughly 26–30 hours.
High-speed trains provide reserved seating, power outlets, air-conditioning, and a trolley service for snacks, with Business Class offering wider seats and extra space. Conventional overnight trains include a dining car, hot water, and sleeper berths. Choose high-speed for the shortest travel time, or classic sleepers for a single through train and a night on board.