How to Buy China Train Tickets as a Foreigner
A step-by-step guide to booking Chinese high-speed train tickets with a foreign passport—what documents you need, how payment works, and how to collect your ticket.
What you need to know
- Works with any foreign passport
- Pay with Visa, Mastercard, or major international cards
- Ticket delivered to your email or collected at the station
1What you need before you start
You need three things: a valid foreign passport (the exact name and passport number will be printed on your ticket), an email address for your booking confirmation, and a Visa, Mastercard, or other internationally accepted payment card. No Chinese phone number or bank account is required when booking through an international service.
2Step 1 — Search for your train
Enter your departure city, destination, and travel date. Results show all available G (high-speed), D (intercity), and C (commuter) trains for that day. G trains are the fastest and most popular for long-distance travel. Filter by departure time to find the schedule that suits you.
3Step 2 — Choose your seat class
Most high-speed trains offer three classes. Second class (二等座) has 2+3 seating and is comfortable for journeys under 6 hours. First class (一等座) has wider 2+2 seats and more legroom. Business class (商务座) has fully reclining 1+2 seats and is comparable to lie-flat on a short-haul flight. For overnight-style comfort on early morning departures, business class is worth considering.
4Step 3 — Enter your passport details
Enter your full name exactly as it appears on your passport, your passport number, nationality, and date of birth. Double-check every character—errors cannot always be corrected after booking, and Chinese station staff will match your ticket against your passport at the gate.
5Step 4 — Pay with an international card
Payment is processed in your chosen currency. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely supported. Some platforms also accept American Express, PayPal, or Apple Pay. Once payment is confirmed, you will receive a booking reference by email.
6Step 5 — Collect your ticket at the station
In most cases, foreign passport holders collect a physical ticket at the station using an automated ticket machine or staffed window. Bring your passport and your booking reference number. Some services now support fully digital e-tickets scannable directly from your phone—check what your booking confirmation specifies.
Frequently asked questions
Can I book on the 12306 website as a foreigner?
China Railway's official website (12306.cn) does accept foreign passports, but the interface is entirely in Chinese, requires a Chinese phone number for verification, and payment can be difficult without a Chinese bank card. Most foreign visitors find a third-party booking service significantly easier.
How far in advance can I book?
Tickets go on sale 15 days before the departure date. For popular routes and travel during Chinese public holidays (Golden Week in October and May, Chinese New Year), you should book the moment tickets become available.
What happens if my travel dates change?
Chinese train tickets can be refunded or changed, but rules and fees vary by train type and how close to departure you make the change. Check the refund policy of whichever platform you book through before purchasing.
Do children need a ticket?
Children under 1.2 m in height can travel for free but do not get a seat. Children 1.2–1.5 m receive a discounted child fare with a seat. Children above 1.5 m are charged the adult rate. Proof of age or height may be requested at the gate.
Is my ticket transferable to another person?
No. Chinese train tickets are issued to the specific passport used during booking. The person travelling must present the same passport at the gate and, in some cases, at an ID verification window before boarding.