Hey friends! Today, I’m taking you along on an exciting adventure through China, specifically my experience riding the bullet train in business class and visiting the legendary Great Wall of China. I’ll keep things simple and conversational—just like we’re chatting over a coffee.
Business Class Experience on China’s Bullet Train
So, we booked tickets on a high-speed bullet train to the Great Wall from Beijing North Railway Station. The journey was short but thrilling. The train was speeding at 173 km/h (107 mph), but inside, you barely felt a thing! I was amazed by how smooth the ride was—even placing objects on the table didn’t cause them to move.
This was my first time sitting in business class, and let me tell you, it felt luxurious! My friend Tammy helped book the tickets, and since the regular seats were sold out, we ended up in business class, costing us 100 Yuan per person (around $13.50). Was it worth it for a 20-minute journey? Maybe not—but hey, we got the full VIP treatment!
In business class, we had cozy seats that could recline into beds, complete with footrests. There were also slippers, magazines, personal reading lights, and cup holders—pretty fancy, right? A staff member even came by offering snacks and drinks, just like they do on airplanes. I opted for a juice, but it wasn’t fresh—it was the bottled kind. Still, it felt great to enjoy the VIP treatment, even if it was just for 20 minutes.
The Challenge of Traveling in China
Navigating China can be tricky if you don’t speak Mandarin. Thankfully, I had my friend Tammy to guide me around. She made everything easier, from booking tickets to helping me find the right train platform.
One thing I noticed—having a passport on you is essential in China. Whether you’re buying train tickets or getting a SIM card, they’ll ask for it everywhere. At the station, my passport got me through a special manual line, since most locals use their Chinese ID cards.
Heading to the Great Wall of China
After a short, smooth ride on the bullet train, we reached the station near the Great Wall. This was my 99th country visit, and seeing this wonder of the world felt surreal. Despite traveling so much, I was still surprised by how developed and advanced China is. From high-speed trains to futuristic infrastructure, it’s clear why China leads in technology and transportation.
Once we arrived at the Great Wall, we decided to take the cable car up instead of hiking. I initially wanted to hike, but the ticket lady warned us it would be a 2.5-hour uphill trek. Tammy wasn’t thrilled about the idea, so we opted for the easier route. The cable car tickets cost 100 Yuan each (around $13.50). As we waited in line, I noticed how cautious the locals were about the sun—most people wore hats, masks, and even carried umbrellas to shield themselves.
Experiencing the Great Wall
The cable car ride gave us breathtaking views of the lush mountains and the majestic wall snaking along the ridges. It was an incredible sight—definitely worth the wait! Once we reached the top, I was amazed at the sheer scale of the wall and the massive crowds. It felt like all of China had gathered there that day.
The weather was perfect—clear skies with a cool breeze. I felt lucky since it had been raining the day before. Exploring the Great Wall, surrounded by such stunning landscapes, made the whole trip worthwhile. It’s not just a piece of history; it’s an architectural marvel.
Final Thoughts
Visiting China was a unique experience. Despite hearing mixed opinions about the country, my time here showed me a side I hadn’t expected—advanced technology, friendly locals, and well-organized cities. China’s bullet trains, in particular, blew me away with their speed and comfort.
Sure, the language barrier can be challenging, but having a friend or a little help along the way makes a huge difference. Whether it’s the thrill of riding a bullet train at 207 km/h (128 mph) or the awe of standing atop the Great Wall, China offers experiences you’ll never forget.
If you ever get the chance, explore China for yourself—there’s more to this country than meets the eye!
