For the railway enthusiast, China offers a fascinating mix of old and new locomotives, American, Japanese, Soviet and European influences, steam, diesel and electric traction, heavy traffic, stunning landscapes and friendly people.

Until recently, my own visits had been exclusively aimed at capturing working steam on film but in the process I've seen and photographed many diesels of many classes in many places. Coverage is currently far from comprehensive as I've never been to the south and haven't photographed several of the more modern main line classes which were introduced after steam was banished to independent and industrial lines. As steam operation declines, trips, specifically to see modern traction, will become more common and coverage should improve.

This feature describes more than a dozen classes of loco with brief technical details where known, history and operational data. Classes are listed alphabetically.

This version includes several new classes and more will be added as time and availability permit.

Robin Gibbons' Railways of China site is an excellent source of information about Chinese diesel and electric locos and multiple units and is required surfing for those interested in the current rail scene. Thanks are also due to Bruce Evans for providing additional information.