How to book China train tickets as a foreigner
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Changed once since , see changes.
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Short answer
Book on the official 12306 English site or app with your passport, or through Trip.com if you want English support.
Tickets go on sale 15 days before departure. Holidays sell out on day one.
New 12306 accounts need passport verification: 3-5 working days.
| Fact | Value | Checked | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ticket sale window12306 buyers | 15 days | MTR CorporationSecondary source | |
| 12306 passport verificationnew foreign accounts | 3-5 working days | Trip.comSecondary source | |
| 12306 with a foreign passportforeign travellers | passport registration on English 12306 | MTR CorporationSecondary source | |
| Paying on 12306 | International Card or UnionPay | MTR CorporationSecondary source | |
| Trip.com train service fee | Not confirmed yet | Trip.comUnverified | |
| Spring Festival 2027mainland China public holiday | 5-13 February 2027 (9 days) | Xinhua | |
| National Day 2027mainland China public holiday | 1-7 October 2027 (7 days) | Xinhua |
Should I use 12306 or Trip.com?
12306 is the railway's own system: no service fee and first access to tickets, but verification can take days. Trip.com books the same tickets in English with customer support; we have not confirmed its fee yet.
When do tickets go on sale?
Sales open 15 days before departure and close shortly before the train leaves. Around Spring Festival (5-13 February 2027 (9 days)) and National Day (1-7 October 2027 (7 days)) popular routes sell out within minutes of opening.
How do I board with a passport?
If the ID gate does not read your passport, use the staffed gate and show your passport; your booking is linked to it. Allow at least 30 minutes at large stations.
What changed recently
Questions people ask
How far in advance can I book China trains?
15 days before departure for standard sales.
Can I pay on 12306 with a foreign card?
Yes. 12306 English accepts international cards and UnionPay.
Sources
- Buy Ticket on 12306 China Railway, MTR Corporation, retrieved
- How to Book China Train Tickets on 12306, Trip.com, retrieved
- 国务院办公厅关于2027年部分节假日安排的通知, Xinhua, retrieved