A bullet train departs from Hangzhou West Railway Station. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_48799cf5e027]

High-speed rail service between Hangzhou West Station and Hong Kong West Kowloon Station began Jan 5, marking the first direct connection between the two cities.

As part of the updated national train schedule, the G99/G100 trains, previously linking Shanghai Hongqiao and Hong Kong West Kowloon stations, now stop at Hangzhou West Station. Passengers with valid travel permits can seamlessly journey between Hangzhou and Hong Kong.

The G99 trains leave Hangzhou at 3:10 pm and arrive in Hong Kong at 9:56 pm, for a total duration of 6 hours and 46 minutes. The G100 trains leave Hong Kong at 11:37 am and arrive in Hangzhou at 6:27 pm, with a duration of 6 hours and 50 minutes.

Tickets are available on the 12306 website, app and at railway stations. Second-class tickets are sold at 831 yuan ($113.5) per seat, while first-class tickets are 1,328 yuan.

Individuals and groups can apply for Hong Kong travel permits at the service center at Hangzhou West Railway Station. Returning travelers to Hong Kong can get their permits in just three minutes.

The iconic night landscape at Victoria Harbor in Hong Kong. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_48799cf5e027]