How to book China High Speed Rail as a foreigner?

How to Navigate China’s High-Speed Rail as a Foreign Traveler

China’s high-speed rail network is a marvel of modern engineering, connecting major cities across the country with lightning-fast speeds. As a foreign traveler, it’s essential to understand how to navigate this extensive rail system to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Essential Requirements

To book tickets as a foreigner, you’ll need:

• A recognized foreign passport
• A 12306 account
• Identity verification

Booking through the 12306 Platform

The official platform for booking high-speed rail tickets in China is 12306 (www.12306.cn). This website is available in both Chinese and English.

Creating a 12306 Account

• Visit the 12306 website and click on “Sign Up” at the top right corner.
• Enter your passport details, phone number, and email address.
• Verify your identity by providing a photo of your passport and a selfie holding your passport.
• Once verified, you will receive an activation code via SMS or email.

Booking Your Ticket

• Log in to your 12306 account.
• Select your departure and arrival stations, travel date, and time.
• Choose your preferred train class (First Class, Second Class Seat, or Second Class Sleeper).
• Submit your order and pay for your ticket using a credit card or Alipay.

Identity Verification at the Station

When you arrive at the train station, you will be required to present your passport and 12306 account for identity verification. This is a security measure to prevent ticket scalping.

Additional Tips

• Book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel periods.
• Trains can often be delayed due to various factors, so allow for extra time in your itinerary.
• Familiarize yourself with the station layout and train schedules to avoid any surprises.
• Pack light as there is limited luggage space on the trains.

With a little preparation and by following these steps, foreign travelers can easily navigate China’s high-speed rail system and enjoy a comfortable and efficient journey.