Buying Train Tickets in China
I recommend using 12306, the official China Railway website, to purchase train tickets instead of other third-party websites for better after-sales service. For example when you want to change your ticket, or refund your ticket, it would be more convenient and efficient.
You can use your passport to create your personal account on 12306.
APP: search for "12306" on the App Store or Google Play Store.
website: https://www.12306.cn/en/
English version APP
Apart from the simplified Chinese version, the 12306 online ticketing platform also provides an English version on both its website and mobile app. The English version is a simplified version to facilitate foreign passport holders for ticketing services. If the app didn't switch language automatically, you can manually switch it, there are guide below.
Tips
- The English platform is for foreign passport holders only. Holders of a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (including Non-Chinese Citizens), PRC Resident Identity Cards or Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents, please use the Chinese platform for registration.
- Registered users can buy tickets after account activation and real-name verification. Real-name verification for foreign passports can be processed via the 12306 online ticketing platform or face-to-face at stations.
- Service hours of the website/app: 05:00 am – 01:00 am (next day) for ticket sales and alteration; 05:00 am – 12:00 midnight on Tuesdays / 24 hours daily for ticket refund.
12306 English Website and Mobile App
Passengers can register a 12306 account on the website or mobile app. It is recommended to register through the mobile app for a better customer experience.
To download the app, users can search for "12306" on the App Store or Google Play Store.
The 12306 mobile app is upgraded from time to time. Please ensure you have downloaded the latest version.
Switch to English
The mobile app defaults to Simplified Chinese. To change the language, click the "我的" (My) icon at the bottom right corner of the app. Then, click the "Set up" icon at the top right corner.
Click "Language Settings" and then choose "English".
Click "确定" (Confirm) to proceed.
Four Easy Steps of Account Registration and Activation
Below is the process of account registration through the mobile app. The registration flow is similar on the 12306 website.
Step 1: Click "Me" at the bottom right corner in the 12306 mobile app, then click "Register"
Step 2: Fill in personal information
You are recommended to click "Scan to entry" to automatically fill your information by scanning your identification document. Please place your identification document accordingly.
Alternatively, you may input your information by clicking "Later on". Please follow the entry guidelines to input your identification information.
Tips
- Fill in the name as it appears on the passport in the following order: surname followed by given name. A maximum of 30 characters is allowed. If your name exceeds the limit, please enter the first 30 characters (including space).
Step 3: Complete registration and activate account
The system will generate a reminder message after completing the registration. An activation email will be sent to the registered email address.
Clicking the link in the activation email will direct you to the 12306 home page. This indicates your account activation has been successful.
Step 4: Complete verification
You can buy a ticket if your identification is verified. Please check your verification status by logging into your account. Click "Me" and then click the icon at the top left corner. You will see your verification status. If it shows "Verification failed", please click "Re-upload the photo of passenger's ID document" to upload a photo of your passport and a photo of yourself holding your passport.
