Harbin–Yichun High-Speed Rail to Open September 28

China State Railway Group announced that the Harbin–Yichun High-Speed Railway will commence operations on September 28. The new line will drastically cut down travel time between Harbin and Yichun, with the fastest journey taking 1 hour and 46 minutes.

Upon the railway's opening, the cities of Suihua and Yichun will be integrated into the national high-speed rail network. Railway authorities will implement a market-oriented, differentiated pricing mechanism with flexible discounts to offer passengers more choices. Specific fare information will be available on the 12306 railway booking platform.

The Harbin–Yichun High-Speed Railway spans 318 kilometers and is designed for speeds of 250 km/h. It originates from Harbin Station and passes through Harbin, Suihua, and Tieli cities before reaching Yichun. The line features nine stations, including newly constructed ones and upgraded existing stations. Yichun West Station is noted as the northernmost high-speed rail station currently built in China.

The construction faced significant challenges due to the high-latitude, severely cold environment, with extreme winter temperatures reaching -40 degrees Celsius, complex geological conditions, and limited construction windows. Construction began in 2022 and involved several major engineering projects, including large bridges.

The completion of this railway is expected to enhance the high-speed rail network in Northeast China, expand the 2-hour transportation radius around Harbin, and promote the development of tourism and ecological resources along the route. It is anticipated to drive regional economic and social development and contribute to the revitalization of Northeast China.