Learn how to buy train tickets in China using the official 12306 system, international platforms like Trip.com, station counters and self‑service kiosks.
This guide walks you through registration, booking, ticket collection, refunds, peak‑period tips and quick checklists so you can travel confidently on China’s high‑speed rail network.
At a glance
- Fastest for foreigners: trip.com or other international platforms.
- Lowest fees: 12306 official website and app.
- Best for advanced users: 12306 with local phone number and Alipay/WeChat Pay.
- Collecting tickets: Use passport at counters or scan e‑ticket QR codes where accepted.
- Booking window: Usually opens 30 days in advance. Book early for holidays.
Quick Overview
How to buy train tickets in China explained simply: choose a booking channel (12306 official, Trip.com or station counter), enter traveler passport details, pay, then collect paper tickets or use the QR e‑ticket at the station.
This guide shows exact steps for each method, what to expect when collecting tickets, and practical tips to avoid delays and fees.
Best Ways to Buy Train Tickets in China
12306 official website and app
- What it is: China Railway’s official booking platform with the widest inventory and lowest service fees.
- Why use it: Cheapest fares, full access to all trains and seat classes, easiest for refunds/changes.
- How to prepare: Register an account, add passport information, link a payment method accepted by 12306 (Alipay, WeChat Pay, Chinese bank card or international card where supported).
- When to avoid: If you don’t have a Chinese phone number or local payment method, the signup and verification may be harder.
International platforms and apps
- Examples: Trip.com, Ctrip, and other travel agents that support English and international payments.
- Why use them: Simple sign up with email, pay with international cards, English interface and customer service.
- Trade‑offs: Service fees are typically higher than 12306, but convenience often outweighs the cost for foreign travellers.
Station ticket counters and self‑service kiosks
- When to use: Short notice travel, inability to book online, or to pick up pre‑booked tickets.
- What you need: Passport for purchases and collection. Some self‑service kiosks accept passports and produce tickets; others require a Chinese ID card for kiosk use. Allow extra time during peak periods.
Travel agencies and hotels
- When useful: If you prefer in‑person help, have complex itineraries, or are booking multi‑person group travel.
- What to expect: Higher fees but full service for bookings and ticket collection.
Step by Step Buying a Ticket Online
- Decide where to book: 12306 for lowest fees, Trip.com for convenience.
- Search routes and times: Enter departure city, arrival city, and date. Filter by G/D/C trains for high‑speed options.
- Select class: Second class, first class, business class, or soft sleeper for overnight trains.
- Add passenger information: Use the traveller’s full name as in passport and passport number. Save details to your account for future bookings.
- Choose delivery or collection method: E‑ticket (QR) or paper ticket pickup. Note whether e‑ticket QR is accepted at your departure station.
- Pay: Complete payment with the method supported by your booking channel.
- Receive confirmation: Booking email, order number and e‑ticket QR code (if provided). Save screenshots of QR and booking number.
Quick tip: For sample booking Beijing to Shanghai, pick an early morning G train, choose second class for best value, and complete payment immediately once seats appear — peak days sell out fast.
How to Collect Tickets at the Station
- E‑ticket QR: Many stations now accept scanning the QR code with your passport at the automatic gate. Have your passport and QR ready.
- Ticket counter collection: Bring the passport used for booking and the order number. Counters open well before departure but queue times increase during holidays.
- Self‑service machines: Use machines that accept passports or order numbers; select language if available and follow prompts to print tickets. Machines vary by station.
- Boarding: Security checks require passport and ticket/QR. Gates open ~30 minutes before departure for high‑speed trains; arrive at least 45–60 minutes early during peak periods.
Classes, Luggage Rules and Onboard Tips
- Classes: Business class > First class > Second class on high‑speed trains. Soft sleeper and hard sleeper apply to conventional overnight services.
- Luggage: Free allowance is generous — typically two large suitcases plus carry‑ons for most trains; heavier or oversized bags may be subject to checks. Keep valuables with you.
- Onboard: Seats recline, power sockets available on most high‑speed services, food trolley and dining cars on long routes. Respect quiet carriage rules where posted.
Changing, Refunding and Cancelling Tickets
- Change windows: You can generally change bookings before the train departs; fees depend on timing and original ticket type.
- Refunds: Refund policies vary by platform and time before departure; expect higher refunds the earlier you cancel. 12306 usually has clear fee tables.
- Process: Use the platform where you bought the ticket for the smoothest process. If you bought through Trip.com, request the refund there; if on 12306, use the 12306 app or counter.
Peak Periods and How to Secure a Seat
- Major peaks: Chinese New Year, National Day Golden Week, summer holiday weekends.
- Booking window: Most trains open 30 days in advance; mark calendars and book immediately when your window opens.
- Advanced techniques: Use multiple booking channels, set alerts on Trip.com, or ask a friend in China to help on 12306 with local verification. Consider trains outside prime hours for better availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a Chinese ID to buy or pick up tickets
Foreign travelers must use passport or Permanent Residence ID card to buy tickets. Station kiosks sometimes only accept Chinese ID, so prepare to use the ticket counter if a kiosk rejects your passport. - How far in advance can I buy train tickets in China
Most services open bookings about 30 days before departure; seasonal or special routes may differ. For major holidays, book as early as possible. - Can I use a QR code instead of a paper ticket
Many stations accept e‑ticket QR codes scanned with your passport at gates. Some stations or routes may still require a printed ticket for foreign travelers, so check collection notes after booking. However, printed tickets will be a thing of the past starting Oct 1, 2025 - What if my payment fails on 12306
Try an international platform like Trip.com, or use a local friend’s payment method for 12306. Some users register with a Chinese phone number to complete verification. - Is Trip.com reliable for train tickets
Yes. Trip.com is widely used by foreigners for its English interface and international payments, though it charges service fees for convenience.
Quick Checklist for Foreign Travelers
- Before booking: Passport or Permanent Residence ID card details ready, payment method verified, preferred travel date and time noted.
- At booking: Enter exact passport name, choose e‑ticket if supported, screenshot confirmation.
- Before travel: Arrive 45–60 minutes early, have passport and ticket/QR ready, know your carriage and seat number.
- If problems: Go to the station ticket counter or contact your booking platform’s customer support.
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