How to buy train tickets in China as a foreigner?

Did you know that China has the world’s largest high-speed rail network? That’s why traveling in China by train might just be the most efficient and exciting journey to explore the country’s vast landscape. But for those who don’t speak Chinese or who are visiting China for the first time, figuring out how to book train tickets in China can feel like a real challenge.

This article will detail some tips to buy train tickets in China, including how to save money with Wise.

How does the train system in China work?

The railroad network in China is massive and highly efficient. The train system connects almost every city and town, from major hubs like Beijing and Shanghai to smaller cities such as Ningbo and Suzhou. And, some of the most popular train routes in China include Beijing to Shanghai, Xi’an to Chengdu, and Beijing to Xi’an.

There are two main types of trains in China: high-speed trains and conventional trains. Depending on your itinerary and travel style, you can choose the type of train that suits you best.

What documents do you need to buy train tickets in China?

Generally speaking, a passport is the most important document for foreigners when traveling by train in China.

You will need your valid passport details to buy tickets.¹ Your passport also serves as your identification to enter the train platform and board the train.

You may use a valid foreign permanent residence ID card at stations or ticket agencies; however, on the 12306 English website only valid foreign passports are accepted.

What’s the best way to book train tickets in China?

Buy your train ticket in China online

Buying tickets well in advance to secure a low-cost and the best seats for your preferred travel times, especially if you plan to travel in China during peak seasons. With this in mind, online booking has actually become the preferred method for many fellow travelers in China. Even if you don’t speak Chinese, it’s usually pretty easy for foreigners to reserve train tickets thanks to the wide range of convenient online booking options.

Here are a few simple steps to buy your train tickets in China:

1. Choose a platform

Trusted platforms foreigners can use to buy train tickets in China include:

• Official China Railway (12306): the English version of the official China Railway platform.
• Trusted third-party apps such as Trip.com and Klook. However, 12306 states it will not handle ticketing problems that occurred on other websites - use third‑party platforms at your own discretion.

Booking through 12306 can be cheaper as there are no agent fees, though payment methods may be limited for foreigners. On 12306.cn, your ID information must be ‘verified’ or ‘ready to be verified’ before purchase; the English website accepts only valid foreign passports.

Another way to book China train tickets is via trusted third‑party apps such as Trip.com and Klook. They’re multilingual and offer more payment options (with small platform fees). For convenience, this is often the better option for foreigners.

2. Search for train tickets

Open your chosen booking platform. Use the search tool to select your departure city and destination, then tap ‘Search’ to view available trains. You will see all the available trains on your screen. It is worth noting that one city might have more than one station – make sure that you choose the correct stations that the train will depart from and arrive at.

3. Choose your preferred time and seat class.

There are four classes when it comes to seating in China:

Second Class is the most affordable seat class. This class has a layout of 3 seats and 2 rows with foldable tray tables, armrests, and power outlets.

If you want a bit more space, you can consider booking a First Class. Seats in First Class are arranged in a 2+2 layout, giving you a wider space and extra legroom.

If you’re looking for the most premium experience, choose Business Class. This class offers pod-like seats, reclining into a lie-flat bed. You are technically on your own with the maximum privacy while enjoying personal entertainment screens and complimentary snacks and meals. Business Class also gives you full access to priority boarding and VIP lounges.

While you can choose a seat class, seat numbers are randomly assigned. But you can still try to specify your preferred seat number.

You might see there is a standing ticket as well. This option is the last resort when all other options have been sold out.

5. Provide Passenger Information

Enter your details exactly as they appear on your passport; they must match for you to board.

6. Make Payment

Choose your preferred payment method. This is where it gets a bit more tricky, especially if you choose to book your ticket via 12306.cn - which mostly offers some limited mainland payment options. Most of these options aren’t that friendly to foreigners. While you can pay with the international card as well, you will need to input a verification code which is sent to your registered phone number.

It is understandable that you would want to book from an official site – that’s why you can use Wise to send CNY via the Alipay route to a recipient’s bank card linked to Alipay to pay for your train ticket instead. This can be extremely useful, as it also allows you to easily pay for snacks on the train or purchases from other smaller, independent merchants during your trip in China.

7. Receive Booking Confirmation

After making payment, you will then receive your booking confirmation within minutes, though you won’t see any QR code or actual tickets. The reason is your ticket is linked to your passport, and you will use your passport to board the gate.

Buy a train ticket in person in China

Alternatively, you can book tickets in-person at any train stations or local ticket offices. Here you will find the step-by-step guide to buy your ticket in-person:

1. Look for any ticket window or automatic ticket machine at the train station.
2. Inform the sales assistant of your desired destination and travel date.
3. Show or scan your passport
4. Make a payment with your preferred method

For foreigners in China, buying train tickets in-person can feel more complicated due to limited payment methods and language barriers. Keep in mind also that you might encounter long queues, especially during the peak travel seasons.

It is only recommended to buy train tickets in China in-person when you have last-minute changes or have some challenges with online booking.

How to collect tickets and enter train stations in China

Your order details will be visible on the online platform. But you won’t see any QR code or actual ticket – once again, your passport is your e-ticket. For some older stations or for certain bookings, you might still be asked to physically collect the ticket.

Chinese trains are extremely punctual; they won’t be waiting for any late passengers.

That’s why you also should plan to arrive at the station early. There are some departure procedures you have to follow through, like X-ray screening and passport check. Some stations can also be fairly large, and navigating there as a first-time traveller can be confusing.

When you arrive at the station, put all your belongings to go through an X‑ray screening machine. Be aware that sharp objects are totally prohibited, but you can bring your drink along with your food through security.

After passing the X‑ray screening, look for the passport scanning line – which might be managed by a security officer. You might see many people line up for the automated machine scanning, but this line is only available if you have a Chinese ID.

When you pass the security check, look for the gate and the train number from the order details or the big display monitor in the station.

Around 20 minutes before your departure time, you can start to line up for boarding. As a foreigner, you will need to line up at the manual channel with your passport ready! The staff will once again scan your passport.

After going through this stage, you might need to walk downstairs to reach your platform. Locate the correct coach – which is normally displayed on the ground. Lastly, board the train and be seated! Now you’re ready for the journey.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can foreigners buy a train ticket in China?

Yes, foreigners definitely can buy a train ticket in China with a valid passport or a foreign permanent residence ID card.

Do you need a passport to buy a train ticket in China?

Yes, foreigners need to submit their passports to buy a train ticket in China. Your passport will also be the ticket to enter the station as well. The only exception is when you own a foreign permanent residence ID card in China. Then, you can use your ID to board the train instead.

Can foreigners use the 12306 app?

Yes, foreigners can use the 12306 app, and the app has the English version as well. But the payment options might be limited.

Common pitfalls when buying train tickets in China (and how to avoid them)

Many travelers have faced verification issues on the official platform 12306. Verification is usually quite fast, but in some cases, it might take up several days to successfully proceed. 12306 also sometimes declines your payment or the payment screen is unable to load for some passengers as well. If you would like to buy a physical ticket, keep in mind the language barriers at the station as well.

So there you have it: your comprehensive guide to purchasing train tickets in China as a foreigner. The process is relatively simple, and there are many platforms available that can help you secure tickets quickly and conveniently. Whichever method you choose, make sure to consider the pros and cons of each platform to find the one that best fits your travel needs. With a little preparation, booking train tickets in China can be smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.

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Sources used in this article:

1. 12306 CHINA RAILWAY
2. 大连理工大学国际教育学院: How to buy a train ticket in China? (Q&A)

Sources last checked on 15-March-2026