Originally Posted by
moondog
From what I can tell, the majority of stations along the new Jinghu HSR are brand new, so I would presume that escalators/elevators do work. They certainly do at both end points (BJ and SH).
In Tianjin the new stations are so new that the escalators aren't ever running.
To be honest, I would expect arriving to no working escalator. It seems that every train trip these days I'm carrying my suitcases down or up stairs. The exception is Hongqiao, which is great.
In terms of the luggage you have the option of putting it at the end of the car in a luggage storage area or behind the last seats in some cases. You can't really see the bags here so it's at your own rish. I've never had a problem, but there is sigificant risk involved.
Also, the overhead area can hold the bags most likely, and with your husband's help shouldn't be much of a problem. If there isn't space the train attendants will help you. It's always a fun experience on the K trains when there are bags of rice and such on the overhead racks and the angry attendants come to make space. However, I strongly doubt the highly qualified 'beauties' will be able to help you any more than your husband.
The station usually opens up the platform 15 min or so before departure. It's always busy so be prepared, even when the train has a small load