depending upon you pocket size hiring a private car like rent taxi go like big boss, if you can afford flight go by air if not CRH is good option

Well, let's say you do take the train. Normal train speed means that if you leave at night, you will get to the next city by the morning. So, leave Friday night, get there Saturday morning. Leave Sunday night, get there Monday morning. That doesn't even leave you a full 2 days to explore Shanghai. Is that even worth it? The high speed train is expensive, so is flying, but that will definitely cut down on your travel time. I'm sure you can find a decent hostel online. If that's ok with you, then by all means, take the train, but it doesn't sound like enough time in Shanghai to me. Maybe you should wait until a holiday to truly visit Shanghai.

I would take the high speed train. Will only take a few extra hours once you take off all the waiting around at the airports. I stayed in Shanghai at one of the Jinjiang Inns. Cost was around 250rmb with breakfast. I always stay at them if I can, clean and good value, but staff dont usually speak much English.The one I stayed at was about 10mins walk to the Bund in an old area that was very boheimian with lots of 2 story residences, resturants, small alleyways, music shops and even a blues club. Was a great area and near to one of the metro stations.

The other great thing about theb train is that you get to take a look at the countryside, if one of you legs is in daylight. I find train travel in China to be a great experience.

Captain Hostel.

oh, and the best way to go anywhere is to walk. pretend u r Kwai Chang Caine.