Hoi An to Beijing Overland Rail Journey: The Ultimate Epic Adventure

Planning an epic overland rail journey from Vietnam to China? You’re in for one of the most incredible travel adventures possible! We’re currently planning our Hoi An to Beijing overland rail journey and I’m sharing everything we’ve discovered about this incredible route.

Love epic train journeys? Check out our transport guides for more overland adventure inspiration.

🚂 The Complete Route: Hoi An to Beijing (and Beyond!)

Here’s our complete overland rail itinerary that we’re planning:

Leg 1: Vietnam to China Border

🚨 Vietnam Border Gate Operating Hours

Important: The Vietnam border gate has limited operating hours that you must plan around:

• Morning Session: 7:00 AM - 11:30 AM
• Afternoon Session: 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM
• Closed: Saturday and Sunday
• Lunch Break: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (border closed)

⏰ Planning Your Border Crossing:

• Best time: Early morning (7:00-8:00 AM) to avoid crowds and ensure you reach Hekou North Station in time for the 13:20 train
• Avoid: Weekend crossings (Saturday/Sunday) - Vietnam border is closed (according to Google Maps)
• Allow extra time: Border formalities can take 30-60 minutes during peak times

⚠️ Critical: Plan your entire journey around these border hours. Missing the morning session means waiting until 1:30 PM, which could cause you to miss your train to China!

Leg 2: China Route - Itinerary

🚨 Important Timing Information

Train Departure: The train from Hekou North Railway Station (Hekoubei Station) to Jianshui or Kunming departs at 13:20 (1:20 PM).

⏰ Time Zone Alert:

• China is one hour ahead of Vietnam
• When it’s 12:20 PM in Vietnam, it’s already 1:20 PM in China
• Adjust your watch and plan accordingly to avoid missing your train

🚗 Getting to the Station:

• Hekou North Railway Station is approximately 4.5 kilometers from the China-Vietnam border crossing
• By Taxi: 10-15 minutes, costs 10-20 Yuan (agree on fare before starting)
• By Bus: Previously available but no longer operating as of 2024
• Recommended: Take a taxi for reliability

⏱️ Timing Strategy:

• Plan for morning border crossing to ensure plenty of time
• Arrive at station 1 hour before departure (by 12:20 PM China time)
• Allow extra time for border formalities and transportation
• Don’t worry - there are other trains later if you miss this one

💡 Pro Tip: Start your border crossing early in the morning to avoid rushing. The peace of mind is worth the early start!

Jianshui Highlights: More rural than Kunming

We’ve added Jianshui on our map since it’s going to be closer after a really long couple of days travel and I think both adults and children would like to rest.

Our family is more of a village family than a city family. We sense that heading into a local village rather than a bigger city will make for a nicer, more relaxed transition!

Kunming

Our friends travelled here from Northern Vietnam and they told us how much they enjoyed this city. I think I’ll prefer the more regional, village areas, so we’re just putting in 2-3 nights here. We’ll see how we feel when we get there.

🐼 Chengdu Highlights: Pandas & Ancient Wonders

You know we’re going to Chengdu for the Pandas! But there are also a few other places to visit while we’re here.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

• Must-visit attraction for families
• See pandas up close in their natural habitat
• Educational experience about panda conservation
• Perfect for children of all ages

Leshan Giant Buddha - UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Tallest ancient stone Buddha statue in the world at 71 meters (233 feet)
• Carved during the Tang Dynasty and completed in 803 CE
• Largest stone Buddha statue globally
• UNESCO World Heritage designation since 1996

What Makes Leshan Buddha Special: While there are taller modern Buddha statues today, the Leshan Giant Buddha remains unique as:

• Largest ancient stone Buddha (modern statues are taller but not stone-carved)
• Over 1,200 years old - incredible ancient engineering
• Carved directly into cliff face - not constructed separately
• One of China’s most impressive ancient monuments

Modern Buddha Statues (for comparison):

• Spring Temple Buddha, Henan, China: 128 meters (420 feet)
• Laykyun Sekkya Buddha, Myanmar: 116 meters (381 feet)
• Ushiku Daibutsu, Japan: 120 meters (394 feet)

💡 Family Travel Tip: The Leshan Giant Buddha is about 2 hours from Chengdu by train or bus. Plan a full day trip to fully appreciate this ancient wonder and the surrounding scenic area. The combination of pandas and ancient history makes Chengdu perfect for families!

Xi’an Highlights

I still need to research this area. All I know about here is the Terracotta Warriors, but I’m sure we will discover more to see.

Phase 2.5: Beijing Extended Stay

Phase 3: The Optional Extension

🗺️ Why This Overland Journey is Epic

This isn’t just a train journey – it’s a complete cultural immersion through some of Asia’s most fascinating regions:

• Vietnam’s stunning landscapes from central coast to northern mountains
• Cross the Vietnam-China border on foot (how cool is that?!)
• Experience China’s incredible high-speed rail network
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way
• Taste authentic local cuisines in each region
• Meet fellow travelers on long-distance trains
• Sustainable travel at its finest

📋 Essential Planning Information

Visa Requirements

Vietnam:

• Most nationalities: 90 day e-visa (multi-entry available)
• Check current requirements for your nationality

China:

• Tourist visa required for most nationalities
• Apply in advance (can take 1-2 weeks)
• Multiple entry visa recommended if planning to return
• Visa Free 30 days for New Zealand and Australian passports (until 31 December 2025)

Mongolia (if extending):

• 30-day visa-free for many nationalities
• Check current requirements before travel

Best Time to Travel

• March-May: Spring weather, comfortable temperatures
• September-November: Autumn colors, pleasant weather
• Avoid: Summer (hot and humid) and winter (cold in northern regions)

🚂 Detailed Route Breakdown

Day 1-2: Hoi An to Hanoi

Hoi An → Da Nang

• Distance: 30km
• Time: 45 minutes by car/taxi
• Cost: ~$15-20 USD

Da Nang → Hanoi (Overnight Train)

• Distance: 791km
• Time: 16-17 hours
• Cost: ~$25-45 USD (depending on class)
• Departure: Usually 6:00 PM
• Arrival: Next morning around 10:00 AM

Pro Tip: Book soft sleeper for comfort on overnight trains. The journey through Vietnam’s countryside is beautiful!

Day 2-3: Hanoi to Lao Cai

Hanoi → Lao Cai (Overnight Train)

• Distance: 296km
• Time: 8-9 hours
• Cost: ~$20-35 USD
• Departure: Usually 9:00 PM
• Arrival: Early morning (5:00-6:00 AM)

Why Lao Cai

• Gateway to Sapa (if you want to explore)
• Border town for China crossing
• Beautiful mountain scenery

Day 3: The Epic Border Crossing

Lao Cai → Hekou (China)

• Distance: 2km walk
• Time: 30-45 minutes (including border formalities)
• Cost: Free (just walking!)
• Experience: One of the most unique border crossings in Asia

Border Crossing Process:

1. Exit Vietnam at Lao Cai border
2. Walk across the bridge (bring your luggage!)
3. Enter China at Hekou border
4. Complete immigration and customs
5. Take taxi to Hekou train station

Important: Have all your documents ready and cash for any fees. This border crossing is an adventure in itself!

Day 3: Hekou to Jianshui

Hekou → Jianshui

• Distance: ~200km
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Cost: ~$10-20 USD
• Experience: First taste of China’s rail system

Jianshui Highlights:

• Ancient town with traditional architecture
• More rural setting than major cities
• Perfect for families seeking a slower pace
• Traditional Yunnan culture and cuisine
• Less touristy than Kunming

Day 6: Jianshui to Kunming

Jianshui → Kunming

• Distance: ~200km
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Cost: ~$10-15 USD
• Experience: Short journey to the Spring City

Day 8: Kunming to Chengdu

Kunming → Chengdu

• Distance: 1,100km
• Time: 10-12 hours
• Cost: ~$25-40 USD
• Experience: High-speed rail through beautiful landscapes

Chengdu Highlights:

• Panda Research Base (must-visit!)
• Sichuan cuisine (spicy and delicious)
• Ancient culture and modern city
• Gateway to western China

Day 12: Chengdu to Xi’an

Chengdu → Xi’an

• Distance: 1,200km
• Time: 10-12 hours
• Cost: ~$25-40 USD
• Experience: Journey to ancient China

Xi’an Highlights:

• Terracotta Army (UNESCO World Heritage)
• Ancient city walls
• Muslim Quarter with amazing street food
• Silk Road history

Day 18: Xi’an to Beijing

Xi’an → Beijing

• Distance: 1,200km
• Time: 4-6 hours (high-speed rail!)
• Cost: ~$30-50 USD
• Experience: China’s incredible high-speed rail network

Beijing Highlights:

• Forbidden City
• Great Wall of China
• Temple of Heaven
• Modern and ancient China

🎒 What to Pack for This Epic Journey

Essential Documents

• Passport (valid for 6+ months)
• Visa documents for all countries
• Travel insurance (comprehensive coverage)
• Copies of all important documents
• Emergency contacts and embassy information

Comfort Items

• Neck pillow (essential for overnight trains)
• Eye mask and earplugs
• Comfortable clothes for long journeys
• Layers (temperature changes between regions)
• Comfortable walking shoes

Entertainment

• Books or e-reader
• Downloaded movies/music
• Travel games (for family travel)
• Journal to document this epic journey

Practical Items

• Universal adapter (different plug types)
• Portable charger
• Snacks for long train journeys
• Water bottle
• Basic first aid kit

📱 Essential iPhone Apps for China (First-Time Travelers)

Before crossing into China, download these essential apps to make your journey smooth and stress-free:

Payments and Messaging

WeChat (微信) - App Store

• Primary messenger and super-app for China
• Enable WeChat Pay and add your international card before departure if possible
• Essential for communication with locals and businesses

Alipay (支付宝) - App Store

• Alternative wallet widely accepted across China
• Add your international Visa/Mastercard; works in most cities
• Consider Tour Pass if needed for extended stays

Maps and Navigation

AMap / Gaode (高德地图) - App Store

• Best real-time navigation and transit data in China
• Has English UI options - perfect for international travelers
• Use for Hekou and Kunming - excellent coverage in Yunnan Province

Baidu Maps (百度地图) - App Store

• Excellent coverage and POIs throughout China
• Useful backup if AMaps results look sparse
• Great for detailed local information

Ride-Hailing and Transport

DiDi China (滴滴出行) - App Store

• Main ride-hailing app in China
• Set iPhone number, enable international card or Apple Pay in app
• Family-friendly for point-to-point transportation

12306 China Railway - App Store

• Official rail app for checking schedules and routes
• Account setup can be tricky without Chinese ID
• Use Trip.com for actual purchases (easier for foreigners)

Trip.com (携程国际版)

• Book trains, flights, hotels in English
• Easier than the official railway app for foreigners
• Essential for train bookings on your overland journey

Translation and Language

Pleco Chinese Dictionary - App Store

• Best Chinese dictionary with OCR add-on
• Perfect for menus and signs - just point your camera
• Offline functionality for when data is limited

Google Translate - App Store

• Download offline Chinese and English packs before arrival
• Camera translation for menus and signs
• Voice translation for conversations

Food Delivery and Local Services

Meituan (美团) - App Store

• Food delivery and reviews app
• Browse nearby options even if full features require Chinese number
• Great for discovering local restaurants

Ele.me (饿了么) - App Store

• Alternative food delivery platform
• Wide coverage across Chinese cities
• Useful for hotel room dining

Utilities

XE Currency - App Store

• Quick CNY conversions for budgeting
• Offline currency rates when data is limited
• Essential for price checking at markets and restaurants

Reliable VPN - NordVPN

• Only if you need access to blocked services
• Install and test before arrival
• Be aware of local regulations regarding VPN usage

Setup Tips Before Departure

Essential Preparations:

• Verify WeChat Pay and Alipay card linking now
• Bring a backup physical card that supports contactless where available
• Download offline language packs and at least one offline map
• In AMaps, save key places: Lao Cai Border Gate, Hekou Port, Hekou North Station, Kunming South
• Enable international roaming or preload a China eSIM with sufficient data

Nice to Have for Families

Apple Family Sharing and Screen Time

• Control kid devices while in transit
• Manage screen time during long train journeys

TripIt or Wanderlog

• Itinerary sharing for family coordination
• Offline access to travel plans
• Real-time updates for train schedules

💡 Pro Tip: Test all payment apps and card linking before leaving Vietnam. Having WeChat Pay and Alipay working smoothly will make your China experience much more enjoyable!

🚨 Important Tips & Considerations

Language Barriers

• Download translation apps (Google Translate, Pleco for Chinese)
• Learn basic phrases in Vietnamese and Chinese
• Carry a phrasebook or translation cards
• Use visual communication when needed

Cultural Considerations

• Respect local customs in each country
• Dress appropriately for temples and religious sites
• Learn basic etiquette for each culture
• Be patient with different communication styles

Health & Safety

• Check vaccination requirements
• Bring necessary medications
• Stay hydrated during long train journeys
• Keep valuables secure on trains
• Have emergency contacts readily available

🎯 Why This Journey is Perfect for Families

Educational Value

• Geography lessons through real travel
• Cultural immersion in multiple countries
• History lessons at UNESCO sites
• Language exposure to different languages

Adventure & Bonding

• Shared experiences on long train journeys
• Problem-solving together at border crossings
• Creating memories that last a lifetime
• Building resilience and adaptability

Sustainable Travel

• Lower carbon footprint than flying
• Supporting local economies along the route
• Experiencing local life authentically
• Teaching kids about sustainable travel choices

🎉 Why We’re Excited About This Journey

This Hoi An to Beijing overland rail journey represents everything we love about travel:

• Authentic experiences over tourist traps
• Cultural immersion in multiple countries
• Sustainable travel choices
• Adventure and discovery at every turn
• Educational opportunities for our kids
• Memories that will last a lifetime

📝 Final Thoughts

This epic overland rail journey from Hoi An to Beijing (and potentially Ulaanbaatar) is more than just transportation – it’s a complete cultural adventure through some of Asia’s most fascinating and often lesser travelled (by New Zealanders and Australians) regions.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this journey offers:

• Incredible landscapes and scenery
• Cultural experiences you can’t get from flying
• Authentic local interactions
• Sustainable travel choices
• Adventure and discovery at every turn

Ready to start planning your own epic overland rail journey? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your travel plans and share more tips as we continue planning our adventure!

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Have you done an epic overland journey? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your adventures and learn from your experiences.

Planning your own epic journey? Check out our Asia travel guides for more inspiration and practical tips.