The first railway line in China was a narrow gauge line between Shanghai and Woosung (Wusong). It opened in 1876 but was closed and lifted within two years. The first line to form part of the modern network was the 11km standard gauge (1435 mm) Kaiping Tramway, opened in 1881 as a private mineral line but later expanded to become part of the China Railway Company.
China now has an extensive network of railways serving most parts of the country, including several modern high speed limes.
International connections exist with the broad gauge systems of Mongolia, Russia and Kazakhstan, and with the standard gauge system of North Korea.
There is no physical connection with the railway system of Vietnam, but cross-border interchange is possible.
© 2005-2011
Glyn Williams
Flag image from CIA World Factbook
