What’s the Difference between High-speed Rail Seat Classes? (Second Class / First Class / Business Class)

The second-class, first-class, and business-class seats on high-speed trains differ significantly in terms of comfort, space, services, and prices. Here are the specific distinctions:

1. Space and Seat Layout

Second-class seats:

Typically arranged in a "3 + 2" layout (3 seats on one side, 2 on the other, with an aisle in between).

The seat pitch is relatively narrow, usually around 90–100 cm, leaving limited legroom.

The seat back is adjustable but with a small tilt angle and cannot be fully reclined.

First-class seats:

Arranged in a "2 + 2" layout (2 seats on each side), with a wider aisle.

The seat pitch is larger, approximately 100–110 cm, providing more ample legroom.

Seats are wider, with a greater backrest tilt angle than second-class seats. Some models also feature footrests and small foldable tables (hidden in armrests).

Business-class seats:

Arranged in a "1 + 2" or "1 + 1" layout (1 seat on one side and 2 on the other, or 1 seat on both sides), offering extremely spacious surroundings.

The seat pitch can exceed 150 cm, and the seats are luxury fully reclining seats, similar to airplane first-class, adjustable to a flat position. Some models include leg rests, neck pillows, and lumbar pillows.

2. Facilities and Services

Second-class seats:

Basic facilities include foldable small tables (retrieved from the back of the front seat) and charging ports (available in some models).

No dedicated services; passengers need to purchase food and drinks from the dining car themselves.

First-class seats:

Equipped with independent small tables (in armrests), charging ports, and some models have reading lights and seat massage functions.

On some trains, first-class passengers may receive complimentary mineral water or snacks, with slightly more frequent crew service than in second class.

Business-class seats:

Luxury facilities include independent audio-visual systems, reading lights, adjustable air vents, multi-functional small tables, USB ports, and power sockets.

Exclusive services such as dedicated waiting areas (at some stations), priority ticket checking, and boarding; during the trip, crew provide complimentary meals (breakfast, main meals, snacks, drinks, etc.), and some trains offer blankets, slippers, eye masks, etc., with more attentive service.

3. Prices

Prices increase in sequence: business-class tickets are usually 2–3 times the price of second-class seats, while first-class tickets are approximately 1.5 times that of second-class seats (specific prices vary by train and distance).