Ask a QuestionChina has the most advanced high-speed rail network in the world, covering most of the provinces and cities in the country, making travel more convenient and comfortable. So, how to travel by train in China? This article will provide you with the most important and comprehensive guide, including how to buy train tickets, how to enter and exit train stations, how to choose train types and seat classes, how to carry luggage, how to enjoy services and facilities on trains, etc., to help you complete a memorable train journey in China.
Buying train tickets in China can be done both online and offline: buy tickets at any railway station in China or book tickets on the official website of China Railway or some online travel agencies. At present, the pre-sale period of train tickets in China is 15 days, it is recommended that you book online as soon as possible because some popular trains or routes may sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Foreign tourists can buy tickets with a valid passport.
►Online: Booking train tickets on the 12306 app is the most convenient and popular way to buy train tickets in China, but it only supports Chinese. You can book tickets in advance through the English website 12306.cn. However, the English version may lack many functions of the Chinese version, such as seat selection, food booking, or online ride-hailing service.
You can also book with us to get rid of the complicated ticketing process. We offer 24/7 English service, secure payment methods, free seat selection, e-ticket delivery and bilingual instruction. After booking online, you can directly use the e-ticket and passport to the train station, or you can use the passport and booking number to pick up a paper ticket at the train station if necessary. See more about How to collect China train tickets?
►Offline: You can buy train tickets directly at train stations or ticket agents. In some small cities the ticket agent may not speak English, you need to take your passport to the ticket window and tell the staff your travel information in Chinese, such as your departure and arrival station, date and time. This may not be friendly to foreign visitors who do not speak Chinese. In addition to this, you may encounter long lines, especially during peak seasons or holidays, so it is advisable to arrive early or avoid this method if possible.
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Whether you buy a ticket on the official website of China Railway or through a travel agency, you will receive an electronic ticket with similar information as a paper ticket but more concise content. You need to understand the ticket information. See more about How to Read Chinese Train Ticket?
In China, entering and exiting a train station is just like going through airport security but the process is simpler and more convenient than airplane. Because of the popularity of China Railway e-tickets, passengers can board the train with valid ID documents, saving a lot of time in queuing to collect tickets. At the same time, the facilities and services at railway stations are becoming more and more complete and internationalized. Especially in some big cities, there are basically signs in English, which is very friendly to foreign tourists. Here are the basic steps for taking train in China:
Arrive early: You should arrive at the train station at least one hour before your departure time, especially during peak seasons or holidays as it will be very crowded in some big stations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou. You may spend more time queuing through the security check and finding the right waiting room.
Check tickets and passports: Paper tickets are not necessary to take the train in China. You only need to have your e-ticket and passport ready before entering the train station. Scan your passport at the entrance. Please ensure that your ticket and passport match your personal and travel information.
Go through security check: You will need to go through security before entering the waiting area. Put your luggage and personal belongings on the conveyor belt and then go through the metal detector and human inspection.
Find your waiting area and boarding gate: After passing the security check, you need to find your waiting area and boarding gate according to your train number and departure time. You can check the electronic screens or the signs for guidance.
Board your train: You need to board your train before the departure time. Usually, boarding starts 15 minutes before departure for high-speed trains and 30 minutes before departure for normal trains. You need to show your passport to the staff at artificial passageway at the boarding gate. Then find your carriage and seat number according to your ticket information. You can also ask the staff or other passengers for help.
Exit your train: When you arrive at your destination, please get off as soon as possible because the stopover time of high-speed trains is shorter. Take your luggage and personal belongings with you, and check if you have left anything behind. Follow the signs or the crowd to the exit gate and check your passport with staff out of the train station.
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In China, there are different types of trains and seat classes to suit different needs and budgets. You can choose the one that suits you best according to your travel distance, time, comfort, and cost. Here are some common types of trains and seat classes in China:
These are the fastest and most modern trains in China, running at speeds of up to 350 km/h. They include D trains, G trains, and C trains, which have different speed ranges and routes.
They are also the most comfortable and convenient trains, with spacious seats, clean toilets, air conditioning, power outlets, Wi-Fi, etc. High-speed trains are suitable for long-distance or intercity travel, as they can save you a lot of time and hassle. However, they are also the most expensive trains, and may require advance booking or reservation.
These are the traditional and slower trains in China, running at speeds of up to 160 km/h. They include T trains, K trains, Z trains, etc., which have different speed ranges and routes. T trains are express trains, running at speeds of 140-160 km/h. Normal trains are suitable for overnight or long-distance travel, as they can save you money and provide you with a place to sleep. However, they are also slower and less reliable than high-speed trains, and may be crowded or noisy.
Generally, the luggage allowance for high-speed trains is 20 kg per person, and the luggage allowance for normal trains is 10 kg per person. The maximum dimension of each piece of luggage should not exceed 130 cm (length + width + height). In addition, dangerous items such as fireworks, firearms, ammunition, and alcohol are not allowed on board. Please try to avoid traveling with these items. See more about China Train Luggage Regulation
You can pack your essentials, such as your passport, money, phone, charger, etc., in a small bag that you can carry with you at all times. Don’t forget some items that can make your train journey more comfortable and enjoyable, such as snacks, drinks, books, headphones, etc.
If you are afraid of losing it or getting it mixed up with other passengers’ luggage. You can easily identify your luggage with some unique markings or tags.
Usually, there are overhead racks or under-seat spaces for large bags and suitcases. If there is no space in the luggage racks, there are also closets between carriages. You need to make sure your luggage is securely placed and does not block the aisle or the door. Also take care of your valuables.
Dining car: Both China's high-speed rail and ordinary trains have dining cars, usually located in the fifth car of high-speed train, where you can buy food and drinks. The dining car usually offers Chinese dishes, such as rice, noodles, dumplings, etc., as well as some snacks and beverages. Besides, the conductor will also push food carts through the carriages, selling basically the same things as those in the dining car. The price is slightly expensive than what's on the market. But if you are in a business seat on the high-speed rail, you can enjoy some snacks, drinks and food (limited to meal times) for free.
Hot water: The hot water dispensers are at the end of each carriage or between carriages. You can use the hot water to make tea, coffee, instant noodles, etc. Paper cups are provided on the train, and you may also bring your own cup that can hold hot water.
Power outlets: Most high-speed trains in China have power outlets under each seat or on the wall. You can use them to charge your phone, laptop, camera, etc. The outlet only works with plug A.
Toilet: All trains in China have toilets for passengers. There are usually two types of toilets: western-style toilets and squat toilets. Toilet paper is provided in the toilets, but it's best to bring some of your own as toilet paper can run out quickly.
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