High-speed trains on the Shanghai to Yongzhou route primarily run from Shanghai Hongqiao to Yongzhou East, offering Second, First, and on many services Business Class seating, with power outlets and trolley service. The faster G-series Fuxing services use the Shanghai–Hangzhou–Nanchang–Changsha South corridor before continuing via Hengyang East to Yongzhou East. These trains typically operate at around 300 km/h (186 mph) on the Shanghai–Changsha South section and 200–250 km/h (124–155 mph) between Hengyang East and Yongzhou East, completing the journey in roughly 6 to 7 hours depending on stops at major stations such as Hangzhou East, Nanchang West, Changsha South, and Hengyang East.
Some D-series Hexie high-speed services also cover parts of this route, generally running slightly slower and making additional stops, which can add to total travel time. Onboard layouts usually feature 2+3 seating in Second Class and 2+2 in First, with Business Class available on selected G-series sets for wider recliners.
In comparison, conventional long-distance T/K trains run from central Shanghai stations to Yongzhou (main station) on the classic network at 120–160 km/h (75–99 mph). These services take about 14 to 18 hours, include hard/soft sleeper and seat options, and make frequent intermediate stops. Travelers focused on speed and daytime travel typically choose the G-series Fuxing, while overnight T/K sleepers provide a through night option with bed accommodation.