Optimal Flight and Transport Plan: JFK New York to Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu, Suzhou with High-Speed Rail Limits

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Shanghai, China on August 30, 2025

Evening

Flight JFK to Shanghai PVG

Book a direct premium economy or economy flight from JFK to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) for convenience and comfort. Direct flights are available via China Eastern or American Airlines with approximately 14 hours duration.
USD 800-1200, 14h

Day 2: Travel to Suzhou

Suzhou, China on August 31, 2025

Morning 9:00am

High-speed rail Shanghai to Suzhou

Take the high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Suzhou Railway Station, about 30-35 minutes. This is a very convenient short transfer.
CNY 20, 0h35m

Day 3: Fly to Guangzhou

Guangzhou, China on September 1, 2025

Morning 10:30am

Flight Suzhou/Shanghai to Guangzhou CAN

Since Suzhou does not have a major airport, transfer back to Shanghai Hongqiao or Pudong Airport and fly direct to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN). Flight time about 3 hours. Choose a flight with minimal layover.
USD 150-250, 3h

Day 4: Fly to Chengdu

Chengdu, China on September 2, 2025

Afternoon 2:00pm

Flight Guangzhou to Chengdu CTU

Fly from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, approximately 2.5-hour direct flight.
USD 100-200, 2h30m

Day 5: Travel to Chongqing

Chongqing, China on September 3, 2025

Morning 9:00am

High-speed rail Chengdu to Chongqing

High-speed rail connects Chengdu and Chongqing in about 2 hours which fits your preference of under 2.5 hours.
CNY 80-100, 2h

Day 6: Fly back to JFK

Chongqing to New York on September 4, 2025

Evening

Flight Chongqing to JFK via Beijing or Shanghai

There are no direct flights from Chongqing to JFK, so book a premium economy or economy flight with one stop via Beijing or Shanghai. Layover times vary, plan for at least 3 hours to ensure connection.
USD 900-1300, 19-24h total (including layover)