Book & ride high-speed trains
China's high-speed rail is the best way between cities: fast, cheap and punctual. You can book in English, and your passport is both your ticket and your ID — there's usually nothing to print or collect.
What you need
- Your passport
- Trip.com (English, takes foreign cards) or the official Railway 12306 app
- 40–60 minutes of buffer at big stations
- 1
Book in English
Use Trip.com (easiest for foreigners) or the official 12306 app. Enter each passenger's name exactly as printed on the passport. Book a few days ahead for popular routes and holidays.
- 2
No paper ticket needed
On most high-speed lines your passport is your ticket — there's no collection window. Just bring the passport you booked with.
- 3
Get to the station early
Big stations are the size of airports, with security and ID checks.
Watch out Allow 40–60 minutes; gates typically close about 5 minutes before departure.
- 4
Find your gate by train number
Departure boards list your train (e.g. G1234) and a waiting-area gate. When the gate opens, scan your passport to get onto the platform.
- 5
On board
Seats are assigned; coach numbers are marked along the platform so you board near your car. Luggage goes on the overhead or end-of-car racks.
Common problems
First class or second class?
Second class is comfortable and cheap and fine for most trips; first or business class is worth it on long legs if you want more room.
I booked the wrong name.
The passenger name must match your passport exactly or you won't be allowed to board — rebook if it's off, even by a little.
Checked June 2026. A planning aid, not official advice — rules and app flows change, so confirm anything critical before you rely on it.