Trains Between China and Russia

The international railway line between China and Russia is part of the great Trans-Siberian Railway network.

There are two trains running between China and Russia: one follows the Trans-Mongolian Railway traveling between Moscow and Beijing and crossing Mongolia; the other one goes through Manchuria, connecting Russia and China.

Russia/China Train Schedules

* indicates border stations.

Trans-Mongolian Line

Trans-Manchurian Line

* indicates border stations.

What’s the Difference Between Trains 003/004 and 19/20?

Highlights Along the Trans-Siberian Railway

Beijing

Before and after your train journey, it’s worth spending 3 or 4 days in Beijing — China’s capital and second largest city.

In China’s history, Beijing served as the capital city during several dynasties.

Listed below are the attractions you mustn’t miss:

• The Great Wall, the must-see attraction when traveling to Beijing, has a history of more than 2,000 years. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Now it has become the symbol of China.
• The Forbidden City is another must-see attraction. Located in central Beijing, the Forbidden City was the former imperial palace used during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368–1912).
  It has retained abundant amounts of ancient architecture and cultural relics during its long history.
• Hutongs are old lanes and narrow streets in Beijing. Some of the local residents still live in the hutongs and this area is the perfect place to experience the local Beijing culture and lifestyle.

Mongolian Steppes and Ger Camp

Mongolia is known for its sea of rolling steppes, the Gobi Desert, and the nomadic culture. You can travel around Ulaanbaatar, the largest city and capital of this country.

If you have enough time, you can spend a night in a Mongolian ger camp, or try something more adventurous, such as camel riding across the Gobi Desert.

Lake Baikal

Located in Siberia, the ancient Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world. It is known as the “Pearl of Siberia” and is definitely worth a visit.

You can go boating on the lake, take a railway trip around the lake, visit lovely villages nearby, and even enjoy ice-skating in winter. People marvel at its natural beauty all year round.

The Trans-Siberian train will take a day traveling around Lake Baikal. If you want to explore the beauty of Lake Baikal for a few days, you can get off at Irkutsk and take a bus to the nearest town, which is an hour’s drive.

Irkutsk

Irkutsk is one of the most popular stops along the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Located 66 kilometers south of the magnificent Lake Baikal, Irkutsk is the second largest city in Eastern Siberia, with the easiest access to Lake Baikal.

The Angara River runs through the city. A number of historical sites line its banks, including ancient churches and museums.

Moscow

Moscow is Russia’s capital and largest city. It’s also the country’s political, economic, cultural, and financial center.

It is worth spending 4 to 5 days in Moscow to discover its history and culture. There are many places in Moscow that you mustn’t miss.

• The Kremlin is situated in central Moscow and is adjacent to Red Square. It is one of the largest architectural complexes in the world, housing a huge number of precious cultural relics.
• Red Square , located beside the Kremlin, is the oldest square in Moscow and one of the most well-known squares in the world. It is not only the place for major holiday activities but is also a witness of Russia’s history.
• Saint Basil's Cathedral is in Red Square. It is renowned for its onion-shaped domes in different colors and for its long history.

Tips for Taking the Trans-Siberian Trains

1. First class compartments have two berths and second class compartments have four berths. That means you might be sharing a compartment with strangers.

If you are not comfortable with this, you can book the whole compartment. However, some people think that this is a good opportunity to mingle with fellow passengers.

2. Food is available throughout the journey as there is a restaurant car providing meals and drinks.

However, the choice of food on board is limited and the prices are high. Therefore, it is advisable to take some food with you.

You can supplement your food supply when the train stops at the stations as there are always local people selling snacks and drinks on the platforms.

3. Free boiling water is available in each car. Take a bottle with you and maybe some instant food that just requires the addition of hot water.

4. There are a few European standard power sockets in each second class car. Each first class compartment has one power socket.

Be aware that you might be unable to charge your laptop adequately due to the unstable voltage. Remember to take a converter with you.

5. Toilets and washbasins are available at the end of each car. Toilet paper is offered but runs out very quickly so be sure to take your own toilet paper with you.

6. The train timetable is based on the capital’s time. When the train runs in China, the train schedule matches the time in Beijing but the time in Moscow is shown on the train schedule when it runs in Russia.

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