The only step-by-step guide you need to know how to book your China High-Speed Rail tickets online!
Planning a trip around China? Then you'll definitely be zipping from city to city on their amazing High-Speed Rail (HSR) network. Trust me, it’s truly the best way to explore this vast country, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency. Simply put, the HSR will allow you to travel around China with absolute ease, just like how the Shinkansen is for Japan travel!
While you may have heard that booking these train tickets may not be as easy, I’m here to give you all the essential tips and information you'll need to successfully buy your China train tickets with ease. Let's dive in!
Why travel around China via train instead?
China boasts the largest and busiest high-speed rail network in the world, stretching over 45,000 kilometers and connecting more than 550 cities. These bullet trains can reach incredible speeds of up to 350 km/h (217 mph), making travel between major cities incredibly fast and efficient.
Whether you're heading from the bustling streets of Shanghai to the historic capital of Beijing, or exploring lesser-known gems, the HSR is often faster, more comfortable, and way more convenient than flying.
How to buy China High-Speed Rail tickets?
There are a few online and offline options that you can book your China train tickets. Besides Klook, here are some of the most common methods:
Online Booking Methods
1. 12306 Website (Official Website)
12306 is the official platform operated by China Railway Corporation, which includes both their website and a mobile app. It offers comprehensive information and real-time updates on train schedules, ticket availability, and travel policies.
However, the 12306 website is only available in Chinese and English, and offers limited payment options which can be challenging for foreigners to use. You will also need to verify you account first by submitting a photo of your passport before purchase. There have also been frequent reports that users face error messages when visiting the website due to high traffic.
2. Online Sites like Klook
Klook is your go-to travel platform for China High-Speed Rail tickets. It offers instant confirmation for your bookings as well as customizations like seat preference selection to make your journey more comfortable. Klook also provides real-time updates and notifications on train schedules.
Additionally, you can easily book in your preferred language and local payment methods including credit/debit card, GCash, LINEPay, KakaoPay, WeChat Pay and more!
Offline Booking Methods
1. Directly at Train Stations
For those who prefer or need to book in person, you can purchase tickets directly at the ticket counters in China's train stations. This can be a good option for last-minute travel plans. Do note that as a foreign traveler, you may face limited payment methods and foreign language support besides Chinese. You will also need to present your passport for booking.
Klook Tip: During peak travel seasons like China's Golden Week, tickets are often sold out weeks ahead of time. So it is wise to book your tickets online in advance.
2. Travel Agencies
Some travel agencies and hotel concierge in China provide train ticket booking services. They can offer assistance in multiple languages and help you plan your travel itineraries. However, be aware that agencies may charge a service fee for booking tickets.
How to book your China Train Tickets on Klook
1. Download the Klook App or use Klook.com
After downloading the Klook app, tap on the Transport button and select the China High-Speed Rail option. Alternatively, just hit the activity card below:
2. Search for Your Desired Route and Date
Search for your desired route and select the date on the China High-Speed Rail page. Then hit the 'Search' button. All available trains will then be displayed. Do pay attention to the stations that the train will depart from and arrive at, as there could be different train stations available in major cities.
Klook Tip: China train tickets are released 15 days before the date of travel. For popular routes and during peak times (like national holidays), they can sell out within minutes of release. Set a reminder to book exactly 15 days out!
3. Select Your Train
On the search result page, you can find out the travel time and route for each train. You can also tap on the train number to find out the stops that the train will stop at. When you're ready, select the best train that meets your travel plans.
Klook Tip: Depending on the route, the train numbers might start with either G, D, or C. The letter represents the three main types of trains, each designed for different travel needs:
- G-Trains (Gaotie - 高铁): These are the fastest high-speed trains, zipping along at up to 350 km/h. They’re perfect for long-distance journeys between major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, significantly cutting down travel time. They offer First Class, Second Class, and Business Class seats.
- D-Trains (Dongche - 动车): Slightly slower, these trains travel up to 250 km/h. They're ideal for shorter routes or even comfortable overnight trips, with some offering sleeper berths.
- C-Trains (Chengji - 城际): Operating at speeds up to 200 km/h, C-trains are used for intercity travel over shorter distances, especially in highly populated areas. They are convenient for daily commuting or day trips.
4. Select Your Seat Type
Next up, you'll have to select which type of seats you want to travel in. China’s high-speed trains offer a range of seating options to fit your budget and desired comfort level:
- Second Class: This is the most affordable and common way to experience the bullet trains. Seats are arranged in a 3+2 layout, offering good comfort with foldable tray tables, armrests, and power outlets.
- First Class: For a bit more space and a quieter journey, First Class seats are arranged in a 2+2 layout, providing wider, cushioned seats, extra legroom, and more recline.
- Business Class: The ultimate premium experience! With a spacious 2+1 or 1+1 seat layout, these pod-like seats often recline into a fully lie-flat bed. You'll get maximum privacy, personal entertainment screens, complimentary snacks and meals, priority boarding, and access to exclusive VIP lounges at major stations.
Klook Tip: Unlike on board a plane, Business Class on the China High-Speed Train is a more luxurious option than the First Class cabin.
No matter the class you select, there are designated luggage storage options for passengers. Overhead racks above the seats can hold small to medium-sized bags, similar to airplane cabin storage.
5. Enter Your Personal Details
Before you complete your booking, you will still need to fill in the passenger details. You will have to fill this in for each passenger based on the details in your passport as you will need to use your passport at the station to board the train. More on that later.
At this point, you can also select your preferred seat - Window or Aisle - and Klook will try their best to assign you a seat based on your preference. If you're booking in a party of two or more, Klook will also seat the group together with at least one passenger being assigned the preferred seat.
6. Make Payment to Complete Your Booking
Complete your booking by paying with your preferred payment methods. You will then receive your tickets within minutes on your Klook app!
Top Tips for Smooth Boarding at the Train Station
Now that you've got your tickets, let us share some of our essential tips to navigate the Chinese train stations and how you to board your train with ease. Do note that train stations in China can be massive and bustling, so planning ahead is key!
Hongqiao Station in Shanghai during Golden Week. Credit: 543402634 via XHS
1. Arrive Early: I can't stress this enough! Major hubs like Beijing South and Shanghai Hongqiao are enormous. Aim to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before your train departs to allow plenty of time for navigation and security.
2. Double-Check Your Station: Big cities often have multiple high-speed rail stations. For example, Beijing has Beijing South (北京南), Beijing West (北京西), and Beijing Railway Station (北京站). Always verify your departure station on your ticket to avoid any last-minute stress.
3. Security Checks: Expect airport-style security. You’ll need to scan your luggage and walk through a body scanner. It’s usually efficient, but it's a mandatory step.
4. Your Passport is Your Ticket: As a foreign traveler, your passport is linked to your e-ticket. Simply scan your passport at the automated gates to enter the station and board your train. Staff are always available if you need assistance.
5. Luggage: You carry your own luggage onto the train. As a general rule, one carry-on-sized suitcase and a personal bag per person is fine. You’ll place your bags on the overhead racks or in the designated luggage areas at the end of the carriage. Be prepared to lift your own bags.
Popular Train Routes in China
Now that you know how to get your tickets on Klook and navigate around the train stations, let us quickly share some of the most popular high-speed rail routes that many travelers enjoy:
- Beijing to Shanghai: A classic journey connecting two iconic cities, taking approximately 4.5 to 6 hours over 1,300km.
- Shanghai to Hangzhou: A fantastic day trip, this route takes about 45-60 minutes to cover 169 km, leading you to the stunning West Lake.
- Hangzhou to Suzhou: Often combined with Hangzhou, this picturesque route is about 1.5 to 2 hours (around 220 km) by HSR, showcasing charming classical gardens.
- Shenzhen to Guangzhou: A quick and convenient trip of just 30-40 minutes over 140 km, perfect for exploring vibrant Guangdong province.
- Beijing to Xi'an: Another popular route, taking 4.5 - 6 hours to visit the Terracotta Warriors.
- Guangzhou to Hong Kong: A cross-border journey that takes around 1 hour on the Hong Kong High-Speed Rail from Guangzhou South to Hong Kong West Kowloon station.
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