The China High-Speed Train network provides rapid, reliable, and convenient transportation throughout the country. 12306, the official train ticket buying platform, allows travelers to conveniently search timetables and purchase tickets for both high-speed and conventional trains. It is the preferred service for both domestic and international visitors exploring China by rail.
12306 China High-Speed Rail Guide: Rail Map and Route Overview
credit: wikipedia
12306 Guide: China’s High-Speed Rail Network at a Glance
China's High-Speed Rail (HSR) system is the world's largest, with over 45,000 kilometers (28,000 miles) of track as of the end of 2023. It connects the majority of major cities and smaller centers, cutting travel time across the huge country. Whether you're traveling from Beijing to Shanghai, Guangzhou to Hong Kong, or Chengdu to Xi'an, there's probably a quick train route that will take you there.
China's high-speed rail network is also one of the most heavily used in the world, transporting millions of passengers every day thanks to significant investment and superior technology.
12306 Guide: What to Expect on China's High-Speed Trains
Trains on China's high-speed rail network provide a quick and comfortable method of travel. Bullet trains are popular among Chinese tourists because to their high speeds of up to 350 km/h, modern amenities, and dependable service.
| Feature | Details | Availability |
|---|---|---|
Top Speed | Up to 350 km/h (217 mph) | All high-speed trains |
Train Classes | Second Class, First Class, Business Class | All routes |
Seating | Reclining seats with tray tables | All classes vary by type |
Power Outlets | Charging ports at seats | First & Business Class (some Second Class) |
Wi-Fi | Wireless internet onboard | Select Fuxing Hao trains |
Clean Facilities | Modern toilets, regular cleaning | All high-speed trains |
Top High-Speed Train Routes in China for Travelers
credit: trainspread
Top China High-Speed Rail Routes Connecting Major Cities
China's high-speed rail network connects several major cities, making travel quick and easy. Some of the busiest and most essential routes for travelers are:
- Beijing to Shanghai is one of the busiest and fastest routes, traveling approximately 1,318 kilometers in 4.5 to 6 hours.
- Shanghai to Hangzhou: A short but popular route, ideal for day getaways or business travel.
- Guangzhou to Shenzhen: This route connects two key economic areas in southern China in less than an hour.
- Chengdu to Xi'an provides stunning views of western China's landscapes and historical monuments.
Key High-Speed Train Routes in China for Travelers
Route | Distance (km) | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
1,318 | 4.5 – 6 hours | |
170 | ~1 hour | |
130 | ~30-40 minutes | |
505 | ~3 hours | |
355 | ~2 hours |
Trip.com vs. 12306: The Best Platform for Buying China Train Tickets
12306 is China's official train ticketing platform. It is frequently utilized by locals and offers real-time availability, direct booking, and the best prices with no additional service costs. However, it can be difficult for international tourists due to the language barrier and the verification process.
12306 vs. Trip.com: Which Is Better for Booking Chinese Train Tickets?
Trip.com is a global travel website that provides an easy method to book China High-speed Train Tickets in English and other languages. It is intended for convenience, particularly for short-term tourists or first-time visitors to China.
Trip.com vs 12306 Comparison Table
Feature | 12306 (Official Platform) | Trip.com (Third-Party Platform) |
|---|---|---|
Language Support | Mostly Chinese (limited English) | Full English interface |
Account Registration | Requires passport upload and verification | Simple sign-up with passport only |
Payment Methods | Chinese bank card, Alipay/WeChat Pay (limited foreign cards) | Accepts international credit cards |
Service Fees | No service fees | Small service fee per ticket |
User Interface | Basic, functional | Modern and easy to navigate |
Customer Support | Limited English support | 24/7 multilingual support |
Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners Booking China Trains on 12306
12306 Registration for Foreign Passengers
Before booking a train ticket on 12306, overseas tourists must create an account with their passport and other personal information. This mechanism ensures that all bookings adhere to China's real-name ticketing policy.
Steps for registration:
- Visit the official 12306 website (www.12306.cn) or use the mobile app.
- To switch to English, click "EN" in the top-right corner of the site.
- Click "Register" and fill in your personal information:
- Full name (as on the passport)
- Passport Number
- Nationality
- Email Address
- Mobile number (may use international numbers)
- Create a username and password.
- Upload a photo or scan of your passport to verify your identity.
- Wait for manual approval, which could take from a few hours to 1-2 working days.
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✨Popular China Bullet Train Routes✨
- DepartureShanghai Hongqiao
- ArrivalHangzhou East
- Duration~45m
- Price (2nd Class)From $8.00
- DepartureShanghai Hongqiao
- ArrivalBeijing South
- Duration~6h
- Price (2nd Class)From $79.40
- DepartureShanghai Hongqiao
- ArrivalShenzhen North
- Duration~7h
- Price (2nd Class)From $81.46
How to Book a Train Ticket on 12306 After Registration?
After your account is approved, you can log in and book rail tickets straight through the 12306 platform. This is how the process works:
Steps to Book:
- Log in to your verified 12306 account.
- Enter your departure and arrival cities, as well as the date of travel, and then click "Search."
- View train alternatives based on departure time, duration, and class (second, first, or business class).
- Choose your favorite train and seating class.
- Enter passenger information (your name and passport will be kept if you have already registered).
- Proceed to payment. You might need: A Chinese bank card. Alipay or WeChat Pay (some international cards may not work)
12306 Registration and Booking Summary
Step | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Create Account | Register with passport and contact details | Approval may take up to 48 hours |
Verify Identity | Upload passport photo for manual review | Required before booking |
Search Trains | Input departure, destination, and date | Check schedule and availability |
Select Seat | Choose Second, First, or Business Class | Prices vary by class |
Make Payment | Pay via Chinese methods or supported bank cards | Payment issues common without local payment method |
Ticket Pickup or Passport Boarding | Use your passport to board or collect ticket | Keep booking confirmation for station access |
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How to Create a Trip.com Account and Search for China Train Tickets
Trip.com is one of the best venues for foreigners to book China train tickets. It supports a variety of languages, accepts worldwide payment methods, and does not require local verification.
Account Setup and Ticket Search:
- Go to the Trip.com website (www.trip.com) or download the app.
- Select your preferred language and currency (for example, English + USD/EUR).
- Sign up with your email address, Google account, or Apple ID.
- On the site, select the "Trains" tab.
- Enter your information: departure and arrival cities and travel date.
- Click "Search" to see all available train options.
- Browse trains by time, duration, and seat class.
How to Complete the Booking and Payment on Trip.com
After picking a train, you can rapidly enter passenger information and finish the reservation using international payment methods.
Booking and Payment Steps:
- Choose your desired train and seating class (second, first, business, etc.).
- On the passenger information page, enter the full name (as shown on the passport), Passport Number, Gender, and Birthdate.
- Review the booking summary and click "Next" to proceed with payment.
- Choose a payment method: Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.), PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay (as supported)
- Following a successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email with ticket pickup instructions or a notification that passport-only boarding is available.
- To board the train, present your passport or obtain your ticket from the station desk or machine.
Trip.com Booking Process Summary for Foreign Travelers
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Account Creation | Sign up via email or social login | Quick process; no ID verification needed |
Search Train Tickets | Enter route and date on Trip.com “Trains” tab | Search results show real-time availability and prices |
Select Train & Seat | Choose train, time, and class | Filter by speed, price, or duration |
Add Passenger Info | Enter passport details for each traveler | Matches real-name ticketing system |
Make Payment | Pay with international methods (credit card, PayPal, etc.) | No Chinese bank or phone number required |
Receive Confirmation | Email confirmation and ticket pickup instructions | Use passport to collect or board (depends on station rules) |
FAQs: How to Book China Train Tickets on 12306
What is 12306 and is it the official train booking platform in China?
Yes, China Railway operates the official website and app for booking train tickets in China, known as 12306 (www.12306.cn).Can foreigners use 12306 to book train tickets?
Yes, foreigners can order tickets using 12306, but the process requires real-name registration and passport details.Can I cancel or change my ticket booked through 12306?
Yes, 12306 accepts cancellations and adjustments online, based on availability and scheduling. A minor fee may apply.