Choose stations as carefully as cities
A city can have several railway stations, sometimes far apart. Check the full Chinese and English station names on your ticket, the departure time and the journey to the station from your hotel. Include time for traffic, finding the correct entrance, security and the ticket gate. Arrange the onward transfer at your destination, especially when you arrive late or are travelling with bulky luggage.
Use the same travel document throughout
China Railway’s official guidance lists valid passports among the documents accepted for ticketing. Enter the passenger name and document details accurately, and carry the original document used for the booking. Check the current 12306 guidance if your name format is unusual or you need assistance with verification. Keep booking details accessible even if your phone has no connection.
Check the route, ticket and luggage rules
Before travel, check the date, train number, departure station, destination and seat on your booking. Review current railway luggage and prohibited-item rules for what you plan to carry. You need to manage your own bags through the station and onto the train, so consider the weight as well as the allowance. Request accessibility or other assistance early through the appropriate official channel.
Allow time for changes and onward travel
Check the booking channel for the current rules on changes, cancellations and refunds rather than assuming all fares have the same conditions. Avoid a tight connection between a train and a separate flight. If rail travel is part of a planned tour, confirm who books the tickets and how schedule changes are communicated. Only the final confirmed itinerary establishes the included rail services.
Official information: China Railway 12306
Plan your China journey
Tell us your dates, group size, interests and budget to discuss a suitable route.
