How to Get the Train in China: 2026 Guide for Travellers
Travelling by train in China is one of the fastest, easiest, and most enjoyable ways to get around. The high-speed rail network connects almost every major city, trains run on time, and the whole experience is smooth once you know what to expect. In this guide, we’ll break everything down simply — from booking tickets to entering the station and boarding your train.
You can also watch our short video below where we walk you through the full process from the station entrance to boarding.
Why Travel by Train in China?
China’s high-speed trains are clean, modern and incredibly efficient. They often beat flying for convenience because:
Stations are in city centres
Security and boarding are quick
You only need your passport
Seats are comfortable with plenty of legroom
Trains leave frequently throughout the day
For many routes — like Shanghai ⇢ Suzhou, Beijing ⇢ Tianjin, Chengdu ⇢ Chongqing — the train is the most popular option for both locals and travellers.
Where to Buy Train Tickets in China
Buying train tickets is fairly straightforward, and there are a few different options depending on what’s easiest for you.
1. Trip.com (Most Convenient for Foreign Travellers)
Trip.com is the easiest place to book train tickets if you’re travelling from overseas or don’t speak Chinese.
English-language
Accepts international cards
Clear seat options
Instant confirmation for most routes
Most Eventurus clients use Trip.com if they’re booking themselves.
2. 12306 (Official China Railway App & Website)
This is the official system, but it’s mainly in Chinese and requires an ID/passport verification step. It can be tricky for first-time visitors, but it’s the cheapest option.
3. Let Eventurus Reserve Your Tickets for You
If you prefer not to deal with apps, translations or verification systems, we can secure your train tickets as part of your personalised trip planning.
When you book a custom China itinerary with Eventurus, we reserve your train tickets early, choose the best routes, and make sure all your connections fit your sightseeing plans perfectly.
This is especially important during peak travel seasons in China when trains can sell out fast.
When Do Train Tickets Go on Sale?
Train tickets in China are released 15 days before travel.
Popular routes (especially around holidays) can sell out within minutes.
If you’re visiting during:
Spring Festival (Chinese New Year)
Golden Week (First week of October)
Summer holidays
…it’s best to let us reserve your tickets as soon as they open.
What to Expect at the Train Station
China’s train stations are modern, secure, and easy to navigate once you know the steps. Here’s what your journey will look like:
1. Arrive 45–60 Minutes Early
Stations are large and airport-like, with security checks, gates, shops and waiting halls.
2. Passport & Security Check
At the entrance, you’ll go through:
Passport & Ticket check (your passport essentially acts as your ticket)
Security screening for your bags
3. Find Your Waiting Area & Gate
Large screens show the departure platform (站台 zhàntái).
Your booking information will list:
Train number
Departure time
Gate
Seat number
4. Boarding the Train
Boarding usually opens 15–20 minutes before departure.
Staff will scan your passport again, and you’ll walk straight to the platform.
Sometimes there will be trains at both platforms so check you are getting on the right one! Find your specific carriage and seat. Train attendants are unlikely to speak English but are helpful. If you give them your passport number they can guide you to your seat.
5. Storing Your Luggage
There’s storage above the seats and larger racks at the ends of the carriage.
Bags must be manageable.
Choosing Your Seat Class
High-speed trains usually offer three main seat types:
🚄 Second Class
Most common and great value. Comfortable seats arranged 3–2.
🚄 First Class
Wider seats with more legroom (arranged 2–2).
🚄 Business Class
The most premium option. Fully-reclining seats, quiet, lots of space.
We can help recommend the best seat class based on your budget and travel style.
Tips for a Smooth Train Journey in China
Have your passport ready — you’ll need it several times
Bring snacks and water (trains also have a trolley and dining car)
Use the station toilets before boarding — they’re usually cleaner
Check your gate number often as they sometimes change
FAQ: China Train Travel (2026)
Do I need my passport to travel by train?
Yes. You cannot board a train in China without the passport you booked with.
Can foreigners use 12306?
Yes, but the app can be confusing for first-time users. Trip.com is usually easier.
Are tickets electronic?
Yes — your passport usually acts as your ticket. No need to print anything.
Do trains leave on time?
Almost always. China’s high-speed system is very punctual.
Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks. Hot water is available on board.
What items are not allowed on the train?
Weapons: Like knives and guns, as well as offensive items such as imitation guns, stun guns, steel ball guns, sports guns, starting guns, tear gas guns, and any type of bullets.
Explosive product: Explosives, detonators, fuses, blasting cords, seismic sources, blasting agents, fireworks, etc.
Compressed gases: petroleum gas, coal gas, oxygen, hydrogen, etc.
Flammable liquids: adhesives, thinners, spray paint, gasoline and other fuel oils, etc.
Highly-flammable solids: camphor, hexamine and other solid fuels, etc.
Poisons: arsenic trioxide and all types of "toxins", pesticide powder, termite powder, pesticide spray, etc.
Things that interfere with the train's signal, or make passengers panic.
What items are allowed in limited quantities?
Nail polish, declustering, or hair dye (up to 50 ml)
Aerosol spray cans/bottles: mousse, hairspray, air freshener, insecticide, etc. Only one bottle or can for each of these kinds of liquid is allowed, and the volume for each bottle or can be within 150 ml, and the total within 600 ml.
Perfume, floral water, and other liquids with inflammable components are permitted, with a limit of one bottle for each type of liquid. The volume of each bottle should not exceed 100 ml.
Two small boxes of safety matches
Two ordinary lighters
Mobile charger or lithium battery up to 100 watt-hours. Wheelchairs with lithium batteries can exceed 100 watt-hours.
Well-sealed alcoholic beverage up to 3,000 ml; 24% to 70% alcohol by volume.
Let Us Help Plan Your China Trip
If you’d like help reserving your train tickets, choosing the best routes, or creating a full custom itinerary, we’d love to help.
Message Eventurus today and we’ll build your perfect China trip — with all transport planned for you, so you can relax and enjoy the journey.
