Booking and riding China's high-speed trains

Last verified 9 October 2026 against official sources.

Quick answer

Book on 12306 (English website and app) or Trip.com using your passport. Verify your identity first, enter your name exactly as in your passport with no spaces, arrive at least 30 minutes early and use the manual passport lane.

1. Book your ticket

12306 is the official railway site and app, with an English version. Trip.com sells the same tickets in English with foreign cards.
Tickets are real-name: your passport is your ticket. Before buying, verify your identity — 12306 can check it automatically, or you can upload a passport photo for review, or verify at a station ticket office.
Type your name exactly as in your passport, without spaces or hyphens. A mismatch is the most common reason bookings fail.
You can pay online with Alipay, WeChat Pay or a card. Station ticket offices also take cash.

2. At the station

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Big stations are the size of airports, with a security check at the entrance.
Passports often don't work at the automatic gates. Use the manual verification lane and show your passport.
Ticket gates close a few minutes before departure — after that you can't board.
Self-service ticket machines don't accept passports; if you need help, go to a staffed ticket window.

3. Getting to the station

Many cities have several stations with similar names (Beijing South vs Beijing West, Shanghai Hongqiao vs Shanghai). Check the station on your ticket and show the driver the right station card.

FAQ

Can foreigners use 12306?

Yes. 12306 has an English website and app. Register with your passport and verify your identity before buying.

Do I need to print my train ticket?

No. Your passport is your ticket. Show it at the manual gate.

How early should I arrive at the station?

At least 30 minutes before departure. Gates close a few minutes before the train leaves.

Sources

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