Hong Kong's high-speed rail network will significantly expand connectivity with the Chinese mainland this month, with 16 new destinations set to launch on January 26. The upgrade announced by MTR Corporation marks the largest service expansion since 2023, bringing total direct-access cities from West Kowloon Station to 110.
New routes will link Hong Kong to Jiangsu Province's cultural hubs Nanjing and Wuxi, along with Anhui's provincial capital Hefei. Business travelers and tourists gain improved access to Yangtze River Delta economic centers, while daily sleeper services to Shanghai Hongqiao and increased frequencies to Guangzhounan Station promise enhanced convenience.
"This expansion strengthens Hong Kong's role as a super-connector between mainland cities and international markets," said MTR CEO Jeny Yeung, emphasizing collaboration with Hong Kong SAR authorities and mainland railway partners. Analysts predict the $2.8 billion infrastructure upgrade could boost cross-boundary tourism by 18% in 2026.
