Image source: China Daily
Travelling by train is one of the best ways for foreign families to explore China, offering comfort, speed and the chance to see the country’s landscapes along the way. This guide covers ticket discounts for children and seniors, planning routes, choosing the right seats, preparing kids for long journeys, and practical tips for travelling smoothly. Plan your family train trip in China easier and more enjoyable.
China Train Ticket Discounts for Children & Seniors
Passenger Type | Age Range | Ticket Policy/Discount | Example/Notes |
Children | Under 6 years old | One child per adult travels free if no separate seat is occupied | Extra children under 6 must buy a child ticket |
6–13 years old | Must purchase a child ticket (usually half price) | Seat provided | |
14 years and above | Must buy a full-price ticket | Same as adult fare | |
Seniors (loyalty program) | 60 years and above | Earn 15× reward points on ticket purchases (vs 5× for regular passengers) | Example: ¥1000 (~£103.9) spent = 15,000 points (worth ¥150 in tickets) |
Eligibility for seniors | Mainland, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan citizens + foreigners with Chinese permanent residency | Points can be redeemed for future train tickets | Not valid for international or tourist trains |
How to Plan Your Family Train Trip in China
Planning a family train journey in China is not only about choosing the right seats but also deciding which destinations will keep everyone engaged. Many cities along China’s vast rail network offer family-friendly attractions, cultural experiences, and exciting activities. Here are some of the best cities and routes to explore by train with the family.
Exploring Major Chinese Cities with Your Family
- Summer Palace: A vast imperial garden with lakes and pavilions, perfect for boat rides and relaxed family walks.
- Great Wall: Families can enjoy panoramic views and even try fun activities like toboggan rides at Mutianyu, making the visit more engaging for kids.
- Forbidden City: A world-famous palace complex where children can explore ancient courtyards and learn about China’s emperors in an immersive way.
- Shanghai Disney Resort: A world-class theme park with rides, shows, and parades that cater to children of all ages.
- The Bund & Huangpu River Cruise: Families can enjoy stunning skyline views on a relaxing evening cruise, a highlight for both kids and parents.
- Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: Home to one of the world’s longest underwater tunnels, offering children an exciting way to see marine life up close.
- Terracotta Army: A fascinating archaeological site where children can marvel at thousands of life-sized warriors.
- Ancient City Wall: Families can rent bikes or tandems to cycle along the wide wall, combining sightseeing with outdoor fun.
- Muslim Quarter: A lively street market full of traditional snacks and sweets, perfect for adventurous eaters in the family.
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: The best place to see giant pandas, with educational displays and a chance to watch cubs at play.
- Jinli Ancient Street: A lively pedestrian street with snacks, crafts, and performances, giving families a taste of Sichuan culture.
- People's Park: A relaxing green space where kids can enjoy paddle boats while parents sip tea in traditional teahouses.
- Chimelong Safari Park: One of the largest safari parks in China, with pandas, koalas, and safari bus tours that kids love.
- Canton Tower: Families can ride to the top for sweeping city views; at night, its colourful lights are especially magical for children.
- Pearl River Night Cruise: A relaxing evening boat trip where families can admire Guangzhou’s illuminated skyline, including the Canton Tower.
Choosing the Best Routes for Families
🔥 Top 4 Most Popular China High-Speed Train Routes
Family Type | Top Route | Why It’s Suitable | Family-Friendly Highlights |
Families with young children | (30 mins, high-speed) | Short ride, easy first trip with kids | Tianjin Eye Ferris Wheel, Italian Style Town |
Families with school-age children | (1 hr, high-speed) | Scenic route + engaging attractions | West Lake boat rides, Hangzhou Zoo, Children’s Park |
Families with teenagers | (5 hrs, high-speed) | History meets adventure | Terracotta Warriors, City Wall cycling |
Multi-generation families | (30 mins, high-speed) | Quick journey, accessible for elderly | Classical Gardens, Suzhou Silk Museum |
Adventure-seeking families | (8–12 hrs, high-speed sleeper available) | Combines culture, food, and wildlife | Chengdu Panda Base, Sichuan opera, People’s Park |
What Are the Best Train Classes and Seats for Families in China?
Choosing the right train travel option in China depends on your family's specific needs. So, which class and seating type best suit travellers with children, seniors, or infants? Our breakdown below will help you make your decision easily.
Family Type / Need | Recommended Class & Seat/Berth | Why It Works Well | Notes/Tips |
Family with young children | Second Class (ABC seats) – child in B seat between parents; or Window seat (A/F) | Window views keep children engaged; parents can watch child easily | Book seats together early; avoid aisle-only seats if child is active |
Family with elderly members | Second Class (C/D aisle seats) | Easier for older passengers to get up, move around, or exit the train | Avoid seats under luggage racks to prevent leg space issues |
Family of three | Second Class (ABC row) | Parents sit on either side of the child for safety and supervision | Great balance of convenience + family closeness |
Families with infants/toddlers | Seats near toilets or dining car (check if carriage has baby-changing facilities, e.g. Carriage 5 on some trains) | Quick access to toilets, hot water, and baby care | Ask staff where baby-care facilities are located |
Overnight family travel – Conventional | Hard/Soft Sleeper – Lower Berths | Safer and more spacious, no climbing ladders | Less privacy, so secure valuables |
Overnight family travel – High-Speed | High-Speed Sleeper (动卧) – First-class sleeper or Second-class sleeper | Modern trains offer faster journeys with enhanced facilities. Options include private 4-berth compartments (First Class) or open 6-berth cabins (Second Class). | Higher ticket prices; limited routes, so book early |
Budget-conscious families | Middle Berths (in hard sleeper) | More affordable than lower berth | Can feel cramped; best if passengers are not too tall |
Families seeking comfort & quiet | First Class / Business Class (window or aisle depending on needs) | Wider seats, quieter environment, extra space for luggage | Most business seats can fully recline, ideal for long-distance travel |
Families sensitive to noise | Silent Carriage (if available) – Window seat (A/F) | Quieter environment, fewer disturbances | Seats limited; must select “🔕Quiet Carriage” (静音车厢) when booking |
How to Prepare Your Children for Long Train Journeys
Best Tips for Travelling with Family on Chinese Trains
- Book early through 12306 or Trip.com: Foreign passports are accepted, but you need to register with passport details when booking.
- Carry passports for ticket checks: Identity verification is required at both manual channel and boarding gates.
- Use English-friendly apps: Some ticketing apps and station boards have English versions, but keep a translation app handy.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks: Train food is convenient but limited in variety; familiar snacks help picky eaters.
- Choose family-friendly seats or berths: For young children, window seats keep them entertained; for overnight journeys, lower berths or high-speed sleepers (EMU sleepers/动卧) are safe and comfortable.
- Arrive early at major stations: Chinese train stations are large and busy, so allow at least 45–60 minutes for security and boarding with children.
- Check for child discounts: Children under 6 years old travel free (no seat), 6–13 years old pay half price, above 14 years old pay full fare.
FAQs: Family Train Travel in China
1. What are the best train classes for families in China?
For overnight journeys, families often choose soft sleeper, EMU sleeper, or lower berths for safety and comfort. On daytime high-speed trains, business or first class offers more space and a quieter experience, though at a higher price.
2. Do children need train tickets in China?
Children under 6 years old can travel free if they don’t occupy a seat. Children aged 6–13 need a half-price ticket, and 14 years and above pay the full fare.
3. What is the best way to book train tickets for families?
Use official platforms like the 12306 website or Trip.com app, where you can book multiple seats together and check child/elderly fares.
4. How should families navigate busy train stations in China?
Arrive early, keep passports ready for ticket checks, and stay close to children, especially on crowded platforms and when boarding or alighting.
5. Can foreigners buy train tickets easily in China?
Yes, foreign passports are accepted on 12306 or Trip.com. Make sure you enter passport details correctly when booking.
6. How can foreign families manage luggage and stations smoothly?
Arrive at least 45–60 minutes early, keep passports and tickets ready, and use luggage racks; large stations can be busy, so hold children’s hands.
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