340kph

340kph. The speed at which the train in the latest high speed rail system travels in China. Currently, the train departs from Guangzhou and ends in Changsha city, Hunan province. A 697km journey, approximately 9hrs by automobile, can now be trekked in a little under 3 hours. The new rail system is phase one of a project to provide a much needed link between the capital, Beijing, and southern China's key transport and trading port, Guangzhou. The proposed railway will help make possible a 10-hour trip from the two major cities.

My personal experience:

While riding in the train, you often forget that you're on, fundamentally, a metal tube barreling through the countryside at 340kph. The ride is remarkably smooth and everything from the seats to the automatic doors just says, 'quality'. Noise levels are low enough to enjoy a nice conversation without yelling or completely crawl into your own world with a book or be immersed in listening to your favourite tune. Now take one glance out the window. The sight of seeing small villages zooming past is enough to shake you up. I cannot even begin to describe how fast you fly past the sights, all while sitting in comfort in your seat, either snacking or listening to tunes without even giving it a second thought. Transport, apparently, isn't all bad.

-Michael