Abstract: Reasonable and effective aerodynamic drag reduction technology is the focus of in-depth research in the development and operation of high-speed trains with a speed of 400⁺ km/h in China. The basic characteristics of aerodynamic drag of high-speed trains were first explained. Then aerodynamic drag reduction technologies for the next-generation higher-speed trains abroad, especially those in Europe, Japan, and South Korea were investigated and summarized. Based on different implementation regions of the aerodynamic drag reduction technology on the train, current research status of the technology was analyzed and sorted out from two main aspects: optimization of the streamlined nose region of the train and optimization of local structures of the train such as bogies, pantographs and external windshields. Meanwhile, the research status of frontier aerodynamic drag reduction technologies was also summarized. Finally, based on available aerodynamic drag reduction technologies for the next-generation higher-speed trains abroad and the research status of aerodynamic drag reduction technologies in China, prospects and suggestions for the development direction of aerodynamic drag reduction technologies with higher feasibility and obvious effects of higher-speed (400⁺ km/h) train were given, which provide valuable guidance for the design and development of aerodynamic drag reduction technologies for higher-speed trains in China.