How to Purchase China Train Tickets

There are several ways to purchase China train tickets including going to train station, ticket offices in city, telephone call etc. The problems you encounter include huge language barrier, complicated procedures, no suitable payment methods etc. Being ticket experts, ETripChina will keep all the hassles and worries away.

ETripChina easy booking within 3 minutes

Step 1: Select a train and type of class via our real-time data searching system.

Step 2: Fill up the booking form and pay online. If further information needed to make your decision, just send the inquiry and look for email respond with details and payment link.

Step 3: Get confirmation with e-ticket number or notification of issuing paper tickets.

Step 4: Get ready for the train journey and board with your passport (for all high-speed trains), or with paper tickets (international train)

Documents and information required

• All passengers' personal information (including name, passport number exactly as shown on passport) is required at booking.

• All passengers' passport copies are needed just for double check your information.

ETripChina services guaranteed

Support in your language. ETripChina provide online information and emails is English; One to one advisors are all English-speaking all French-speaking. They are always a phone call away to answer your questions, help you communicate at train station if needed.

Fast response. You can expect booking details immediately or maximum to 12 hours if booking at night hours(Beijing Time).

Easy payment through PayPal. PayPal also accept payment with Visa/Master or debit card without registration.

Real-time data of ticket number, which helps to make right decision.

Trip planner. ETripChina advisors are familiar with the transport and trips over China. We can better help you plan your independent or self-guided tour to China.

Frequently asked questions

• Can I request window seat? If tickets are still available, your requirements will be taken into consideration.

• Can I request private sleeper compartment? Luxury soft sleeper (two bunks in an enclosed cabin with separate toilet) or soft sleeper (4 bunks in an enclosed cabin) allows to book for the whole compartment.

• How to book seat for children? Fill in information in the inquiry and mark it as Children. ETripChina will book discount Children ticket. Please note that Children under 1.2 meters can enjoy free trip if sharing seat with adult; Who between 1.2-1.4m is required to book children rate; and who up to 1.4m is required to book adult rate.

• How far in advance can I book? You can put an order as early as 6 months or one year ahead when planning your trip to be on our caring list, or only few hours before departure. Most of the trains are opened for booking 30 days ahead and tickets selling fast during or approaching public holidays. Early booking is always suggested if possible.

Other ways to purchase tickets

• Purchase at train stations.

Office hours: Most of large train stations offer 24 hours ticketing services. Some smaller stations work depending on the station's train schedule.
How to do: join in any queue and purchase at ticket window. Staff can speak little English or not at all. Prepare some notes both in English and Chinese beforehand. Payment: cash, Wechat, Alipay.
Disadvantages: language barrier; no advance booking;

• Purchase at ticket offices in the city.

Office hours：9:00am to 12:00pm, 1:30pm to 5:30pm
How to do: find out the office and go at the office hours. Staff can speak little English or not at all. Prepare some notes both in English and Chinese. Payment: cash, Wechat, Alipay; each ticket will be charged CNY 5.
Disadvantages: language barrier; no advance booking

• Purchase through telephone call.
Office hours：7:00am to 11:00pm
How to do: Call (local area code) + 95105105, follow the steps to book. It only allows to book tickets on sale at least 2 days prior to departure. When successfully done, you need to go to train station to collect it within 24 hours. Payment: Cash only.
Disadvantages: language barrier; limited time to collect paper ticket

• Purchase through China Rail website.
Office hours: 7:00am to 11:00pm
How to do: log into Chinese website - www.12306.cn. Set up an account with your personal information, then activate the account with local cellphone number. Then follow the steps to book. Payment: various kinds of cards issued by Chinese Banks; Ali Pay, Wechat, etc.
Disadvantages: language barrier; only Chinese ID number and few regular passport-hold customers that pass the online security check are allowed to register; Local cellphone number is required at registration; procedures are very complicated.