How To Take High-Speed Trains in China (Beginner's Guide)
May 15, 2024
Traveling by high-speed train (HSR, also known as bullet train) is a fantastic way for foreign tourists to explore China – it’s fast, convenient, and comfortable. This guide provides detailed information on how to navigate the process, from purchasing tickets to boarding the train.
Buying High-Speed Train Tickets
Online Platforms (Recommended)
- 12306.cn (Official Website/App):
- Pros: Most direct booking, no service fees.
- Cons: Primarily in Chinese (use browser translation), requires account registration with passport, international card payment can sometimes be tricky.
- Process: Register, search schedules (departure/arrival stations, date), select train (G, D, C prefixes are high-speed) and seat class, pay.
- Third-Party Travel Agencies (Easier for Tourists):
- Examples: Trip.com (Ctrip), Trainline, China Highlights.
- Pros: User-friendly English interfaces, accept international payments easily.
- Cons: Usually charge a small service fee.
- Process: Similar to 12306 but generally simpler. You’ll receive an e-ticket confirmation.
At the Train Station
- Ticket Windows (售票厅 - Shòupiàotīng):
- Go to designated windows (look for English signs if available).
- Required: Your original passport.
- Provide: Departure/arrival stations, date, preferred train time/number (if known), seat class.
- Self-Service Ticket Machines:
- Many now have an English option.
- Challenge: Often require a Chinese ID card for purchase, though some might work with passports for collecting pre-booked tickets.
- Payment: May accept cash (RMB), Chinese bank cards, Alipay/WeChat Pay.
Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes or during Chinese holidays, as trains sell out quickly.
The Boarding Process: Step-by-Step
Arriving at the Station
- Time: Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before departure. Stations are large and procedures take time.
Security Check
- Similar to airports: luggage goes through X-ray, you walk through a metal detector.
- Prohibited items include flammables, explosives, and dangerous weapons. Restrictions apply to knives and liquids.
Ticket and ID Check
- Proceed to the ticket gates.
- Required: Your original passport and your ticket (paper ticket or e-ticket QR code/confirmation).
- Staff will verify your identity against the ticket.
- Some stations have automated gates (scan QR code or insert paper ticket).
Finding the Platform
- Check the large departure boards for your train number (e.g., G123).
- The board will show the departure time, waiting area/gate number, and eventually the platform number (站台 - zhàntái).
- Follow signs (usually in Chinese and English) to your gate/platform.
Boarding the Train
- Boarding typically starts 15-20 minutes before departure and gates close 3-5 minutes before departure time. Don’t be late!
- Allow passengers to exit first.
- Find your carriage number (车厢 - chēxiāng) indicated on platform signs or markings.
- Enter the correct carriage and find your seat number (座位 - zuòwèi).
- Store luggage on overhead racks or in designated areas at the ends of the carriage.
- Note on long trains (16 carriages): Sometimes carriages 1-8 and 9-16 are not connected internally. Ensure you board the correct section.
During the Journey: Onboard Amenities
- Comfort: Seats usually have tray tables. Seating classes typically include Second Class (most common), First Class (more spacious), and Business Class (lie-flat seats on some trains).
- Facilities: Clean restrooms (both squat and Western-style usually available), hot water dispensers (popular for tea or instant noodles).
- Power Outlets: Available near most seats (check under seat or on the side).
- Food/Drinks: Snack carts often pass through carriages. Longer distance trains may have a dining car.
- Wi-Fi: Offered on many trains, but connectivity and speed can be inconsistent.
- Announcements: Usually made in Mandarin Chinese and English on major HSR routes.
Using China’s HSR is an efficient and enjoyable way to travel. Booking ahead and arriving at the station early are key to a smooth experience.
