Travel FAQ
How to Book a High Speed Train Ticket
To purchase Chinese high-speed rail tickets, there are several channels available: the official 12306 website, international platforms, station ticket windows, and self-service ticket machines. The 12306 website offers the most affordable prices, while international platforms provide the greatest convenience. This guide will explain the two methods in detail.
12306 Official Website and App
Register an account, add passport information, link a payment method accepted by 12306 (Alipay, WeChat Pay, Chinese bank card or international card where supported). If you don't have a Chinese mobile number or local payment method, the registration and verification may be very difficult.
International Platforms (Trip.com, Ctrip, and other travel agents that support English and international payments.)
Simple registration via email, payment with international cards, English interface and customer service provided. Service fees are usually higher than those on 12306, but for foreign travelers, the convenience often outweighs the cost.
Operating Steps:
1. Search routes and times: Enter departure city, arrival city, and date. Filter by G/D/C trains for highspeed options.
2. Select class: Second class, first class, business class, or soft sleeper for overnight trains.
3. Add passenger information: Use the traveler’s full name as in passport and passport number. Save details to your account for future bookings.
4. Pay: Complete payment with the method supported by your booking channel.
5. Receive confirmation: Booking email, order number and e-ticket QR code. Save screenshots of QR and booking number.
Other Questions:
How far in advance can I
buy train tickets?
Generally speaking, tickets are released 15 days before the departure
date. Some special or temporary trains may have their pre-sale period less than
15 days.
What documents are
required for booking?
Every passenger's exact First Name, Given Name, passport number, date of issue
& date of expiration of the passport are required.
Can I use a QR code instead of a paper ticket?
The stations accept e-ticket QR codes scanned with your passport at gates.
