How to book a train ticket in China?

Step 1
Using identification documents

You can use the following valid identification documents when purchasing tickets or paying for an extended trip at the railway station ticket office, ticket agents, or on trains:

(1) Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card;

(2) Passport;

(3) Foreigner exit-entry permit;

(4) Seafarer certificate;

(5) Receipt of acceptance of a visa application issued by an exit and entry
authority (immigration office);

(6) Passport loss report certificate;

(7) Temporary international travel document issued by an embassy or consulate in China (with valid visa or stay certificate issued by an exit and entry authority (immigration office) attached).

You can use your Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card or passport to purchase tickets through the 12306 website, 12306 APP, or booking hotline. You can also use your Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card to purchase tickets at the self-service machines.

12306 website address: https://www.12306.cn/en/index.html

Step 2
Identity verification

By law, to ensure safe and orderly passenger transport, China's railway operator implements real-name ticketing. You must complete identity verification before purchasing tickets.

(1) You can log in to the 12306 website or APP to fill in your name, nationality, ID number, and other information following the instructions. The system will automatically complete identity verification. Or, you can upload a photo of the passport information page for manual verification.

(2) You can also take a valid passport to the ticket office at the railway station for identity verification.

Step 3
Ticket purchase

After the identity verification, you can purchase tickets.

(1) You can purchase tickets online through the 12306 website or APP and pay with Alipay, WeChat, or UnionPay bank cards.

(2) You can also purchase tickets at the ticket office at the railway station and pay in cash or by Alipay, WeChat, or UnionPay bank cards. Some railway stations also have self-service machines for ticket purchase.