On the Shanghai to Wanzhou route, the quickest itineraries use China Railway high-speed services (G-series) with one easy change, most commonly at Zhengzhou East. Fuxing EMUs (CR400AF/BF) run up to 350 km/h (217 mph) on the Beijing–Shanghai and Xuzhou–Zhengzhou high-speed corridors, then continue on the Zhengzhou–Chongqing high-speed railway toward Wanzhou North with typical operating speeds of about 250–300 km/h (155–186 mph) across more mountainous sections. Expect Second, First, and Business Class, power outlets, and trolley service; total travel time is generally around 7 to 8.5 hours, with key stops such as Nanjing South, Xuzhou East, Zhengzhou East, and Xiangyang East before arriving at Wanzhou North.
An alternative is the D/G combination via Wuhan and Yichang. Between Shanghai and Wuhan/Yichang, EMUs usually run at 200–250 km/h (124–155 mph). The stretch from Yichang to Wanzhou follows a line engineered through gorges and tunnels, where speeds are typically around 160–200 km/h (99–124 mph), extending the overall journey to roughly 9.5 to 12 hours. These trains usually offer Second and First Class (Business Class may not be available on all segments) and make more intermediate stops.
Conventional overnight services (T/K series) also operate on this corridor to the classic Wanzhou station rather than Wanzhou North. With line speeds around 120–160 km/h (75–99 mph), they take approximately 22 to 26 hours. They feature hard/soft seats and hard/soft sleepers plus a dining car—useful for travelers prioritizing an overnight berth and lower fares over speed.