China Railway 12306
The official English-language website of China Railway for train searches, booking and ticket services.
- Official railway booking channel
- English-language website
- Direct access to 12306 services
Your guide to train travel in China
From world-famous high-speed trains to scenic long-distance journeys, China’s rail network connects the country’s great cities and regions. Start here, then book through a trusted ticketing platform.
Book your journey
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The official English-language website of China Railway for train searches, booking and ticket services.
An international booking platform with English support and a travel-oriented booking experience.
China by train
China’s rail system links major cities, regional centres and many smaller destinations. High-speed services are ideal for intercity travel, while conventional trains open up longer overnight and scenic routes.
Popular journeys
These city pairs are a useful starting point when planning a first rail trip in China.
Two landmark cities connected by a flagship high-speed corridor.
02A convenient short journey between the coast and West Lake.
03Travel between ancient history and Sichuan’s vibrant capital.
04A cross-boundary high-speed connection through southern China.
Before you travel
Enter your passenger name and identity document details carefully, matching your passport or accepted travel document.
Large cities can have several stations. Confirm the full station name before paying and before setting out.
Allow time for identity checks, security screening and finding the correct waiting area and boarding gate.
Carry the same identity document used to book. It may be required to enter, board and leave the station.
Complete travel guide
A practical guide to booking, station procedures, luggage, onboard facilities, changes, payments and the small details that make travel easier.
Documents, tickets and choosing the right train
China Train GuideFrom station entrance to your seat
China Train GuideLuggage, facilities and a comfortable journey
China Train GuideWhat to do when plans change
China Train GuidePayments, phones and staying connected
China Train GuideRailway procedures and platform rules can change. Always check the latest information shown by China Railway, the station and the platform that issued your ticket.
Good to knowComplete travel guide
A practical guide to booking, station procedures, luggage, onboard facilities, changes, payments and the small details that make travel easier.
China Train GuideYes. China Railway states that foreign passengers can purchase real-name tickets using a valid passport accepted under the applicable rules. Enter the passenger’s name, nationality and passport number exactly as they appear on the document. Carry the same physical passport when traveling.
Most journeys use electronic tickets connected to the identity document entered at booking. Keep the booking confirmation and train number available, but expect your passport—not a printed confirmation—to be the key document at identity checks.
For a first journey, aim for 45–60 minutes before departure. Add more time during major holidays, at very large stations, if you need ticket assistance or if your passport must be checked manually. Boarding gates usually close before departure.
Current allowances depend on railway rules, passenger type and the item. You are generally expected to carry and store your own luggage. Pack compactly, keep aisles and doors clear, and verify current weight, size and restricted-item limits before travel.
International card acceptance varies. A practical backup plan is to carry more than one card, a modest amount of cash and, where available, set up a supported Chinese mobile-payment wallet linked to an international card before travel. Verify fees and identity requirements.
Do not board another train or assume the original ticket remains valid. Go immediately to a staffed counter or contact the seller. Available options depend on the ticket and how much time has passed since departure.
Use the train number and departure time on the large electronic boards. The display normally shows the waiting area or boarding gate. Major stations commonly provide English on key signs, but keeping a screenshot of the Chinese station name and train number is useful.
Common questions
A few practical points for international travelers.
Use 12306 if you prefer the official China Railway English channel. Trip.com may be convenient if you prefer an international travel interface, multiple currencies or its customer service options. Always review the displayed terms and total price before paying.
Many journeys use identity-document-based boarding. Requirements can vary by journey and passenger document, so follow the instructions shown with your booking and keep your confirmation available.
High-speed trains commonly offer Second Class and First Class, while selected services may also offer Business Class. Conventional trains can include seats, soft sleepers and hard sleepers, depending on the service.
Arrive with enough time for security and identity checks. Large stations can be busy and boarding gates usually close before departure, so avoid arriving at the last minute.
Change and refund availability depends on the ticket, departure status and booking channel. Manage the ticket through the platform where you purchased it and check its current rules.
Continue to your preferred booking platform.
Complete travel guide
Include your route, travel date and booking platform when you email us.