The Shantou-Shantou South section of the Shanwei-Shantou High-Speed Railway (Shan-Shan HSR) officially opened on Dec. 12, marking a major milestone for transportation in eastern Guangdong.

This newly launched 19.8-kilometer stretch significantly shortens travel times across the region. The fastest journey between Shenzhen and Shantou now takes about one hour and 39 minutes, while the trip from Guangzhou to Shantou has been reduced to roughly one hour and 50 minutes. The improved connectivity is expected to strengthen economic and social integration between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and eastern Guangdong.

The full Shan-Shan HSR extends 162 kilometers, designed for speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour. It passes through eight districts and counties across Shantou, Jieyang, and Shanwei, linking seven stations along the route. The segment from Shanwei to Shantou South began operations in December 2023.

A highlight of the project is its newly completed 9,781-meter tunnel—the most technically demanding component of the entire line. With a maximum gradient of 29%, the tunnel showcases the engineering challenges and innovations required to complete the railway.

With the line now fully open, the Shan-Shan HSR is poised to deliver a strong boost to regional development, enhancing passenger mobility, tourism, and trade throughout eastern Guangdong.