High speed railway (HSR) is an extremely huge and complicated system integrating many edge-cutting technologies. Via original innovation, integrated innovation and innovation by absorbing import technologies, China railway has explored a HSR development path with unique Chinese characteristics and become the world's largest and fastest growing HSR network. By reviewing the development history of HSR in China, this article presents an in-depth analysis on the distinctive characteristics of Chinese high speed railways, i.e., leading technologies, outstanding safety and reliability, and high cost-efficiency. The sophisticated technologies are embodied by the high running speed, complicated construction environment, diversified operation scenarios and compatibility with international technologies. For safety and reliability, a complete HSR technology system and safety assurance system have been established to reinforce control over engineering quality from the source and market access of products, intensify the operation management and enhance disaster prevention & control. The cost-efficiency is demonstrated in terms of construction period, cost, energy consumption, environmental performance and social benefit. Last but not the least, a vision on HSR in China is included, which also proposes that the railway should further concentrate on the national strategies of“one road and one belt”and“going global”, and make more effort to cement the leading position of Chinese HSR in the world.