A view of bustling Wuxi East Railway Station. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]

The direct high-speed rail service from Wuxi, Jiangsu province, to Hong Kong is set to launch on Jan 27, according to the online travel platform Ctrip.

Ctrip shows that passengers will be able to board train G384 at Wuxi East Railway Station at 9:31 am on Jan 27, arriving directly at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station in about 8 hours and 21 minutes.

Tickets will be available for purchase starting at 8:30 am on Jan 13 and are currently open for reservation, with second-class seats priced at 945 yuan ($135.12).

Currently, high-speed rail options from Wuxi to Hong Kong on the official 12306 platform require transfers through other cities, with the fastest routes taking around 9 hours and the slower ones exceeding 10 hours.

What documents are required for the direct high-speed rail to Hong Kong? How does the customs process work?

For customs clearance, travelers need a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, a Chinese mainland travel permit, a passport, or other valid travel documents.

Travel process from Chinese mainland to Hong Kong:

Chinese mainland: Check-in and board the train using the valid ID used for ticket purchase.

Hong Kong: Upon arrival at the B4 platform of Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, follow the signs to the B2 arrival hall to complete immigration procedures, and then use your documents to exit.

【Please note】 The final details regarding the direct high-speed rail service from Wuxi to Hong Kong are subject to official railway announcements.