An American traveler is going viral for his reaction to China's high-speed rail system — and it's making viewers rethink what affordable, sustainable travel could look like.
TikToker Grossi (@christian.grossi), who's visited more than 100 countries, shared his experience aboard a luxury business-class train from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie. In the clip, which has racked up over 28,000 likes, he marvels at the sleek red-leather seats that fully recline, the complimentary hot meal of beef, rice, vegetables, and soup, and even a private snack bar stocked with drinks and treats.
@christian.grossi A full time American traveler cannot believe the prices of trains in China 🇨🇳 This is a train traveling from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie. The entire country of China is covered by a high speed rail system, something that could never happen in the USA. Additionally these trains are affordable with journeys of 3 hours only costing $20 This seat is the Business class version. For a price of $100 you get a lounge, private escort to the train, fully lie flat seat, hot meal, hot drinks, and even a private cabin. A luxury experience in China for the price of a normal one #fyp #tellme #traveltiktok #china #chongqing ♬ original sound - Grossi
"Cannot believe the prices of trains in China," Grossi says, noting that his business-class ticket cost around $100 — roughly the same as a standard train ride across Europe. For travelers on a budget, regular seats can cost as little as $20 for a three-hour journey. Meanwhile, the train speeds along at an astonishing 300 kilometers per hour (about 187 mph), connecting major cities with comfort and efficiency.
Beyond the luxury, China's high-speed rail system has a major climate upside. Trains are one of the lowest-pollution ways to travel long distances, producing a fraction of the carbon pollution of flights. Expanding rail infrastructure — something China has done across more than 25,000 miles of track — helps reduce car and plane use, making travel faster, cleaner, and better for the planet.
Commenters couldn't believe the value. "Would be $500 in North America," one wrote. Another said, "China is not what I expected — I love how clean it is." Others expressed envy, with one user admitting: "That's really reasonable for first class. Never see that here in the states."
The viral clip shows what's possible when a country invests in efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly travel — proving that luxury and sustainability can ride side by side.
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