Guide to Purchasing High-Speed Rail Tickets
The official ticketing platform of China Railway is “Railway 12306.”
Official Access Points:
- Railway 12306 Official Website
- “Railway 12306” Official App (iOS/Android)
1. Register an account using a mobile phone number or email, and fill in information such as your passport name and passport number.
2. Identity Verification: Some foreign travelers need to upload a photo of their passport to complete real-name authentication; first-time users may also need to undergo manual verification at the station.
3. Search for Trains: Enter your departure location, destination, and date to view high-speed rail (G-series) and bullet train (D-series) schedules and fares.
4. Select Seats: Common seat types include:
- Second Class Seat (most commonly used)
- First Class Seat
- Business Class Seat
5. Online Payment: Supports Alipay, WeChat Pay, UnionPay, and certain international bank cards.
6. Boarding: Enter the station with your original passport. Most stations support electronic tickets, so there is no need to collect paper tickets.
It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes in advance, and one hour earlier during holidays.
Passengers who are not comfortable using the app can also purchase high-speed rail tickets offline.
Bring your original passport to the station ticket window and inform the staff of:
- Departure City
- Arrival City
- Departure Time
You can then purchase tickets on-site.
Some high-speed rail stations support passport recognition and English interfaces, but not all machines accept foreign identification documents.
Certain cities have railway ticket agencies that offer more convenient purchasing options, though a small service fee may apply.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance during holidays, weekends, and on popular routes.
Before entering a high-speed rail station, you must pass through security screening. The following items are prohibited:
- Firearms and ammunition
- Fireworks and firecrackers
- Flammable and explosive materials
- Controlled knives
- Tasers, pepper sprays, and other dangerous items
Certain items are subject to restrictions, such as:
- Alcohol sprays
- Hair spray and mousse
- Large-capacity power banks
It is recommended to avoid carrying unknown liquids or hazardous substances.
In addition:
- Keep your passport with you at all times during travel
- Do not leave valuables unattended
- High-speed trains typically stop checking tickets five minutes before departure
China’s high-speed rail is safe and efficient, making it one of the most recommended modes of transportation for foreign travelers in China.