How to Buy China Train Tickets at the Train Station?

There are 3 main ways to buy train tickets in China: self-service ticket machines, manual ticket windows and online purchase. Although railway stations still retain traditional manual ticket sales services and are equipped with modern self-service ticket machines, most passengers now choose to buy tickets online, which is more convenient.

This article will provide you with detailed steps for foreigners to buy tickets at train stations, helping you choose the most suitable ticket purchase method according to your needs.

How to Buy Train Tickets at the Manual Ticket Counter?

Step 1: Go to your nearest train station and find the ticket counter, usually marked as "Ticket Office / Tickets"（售票处）.

Step 2: Please show your passport as proof of identity when purchasing. (Generally, ticket sellers at most large train stations can speak English)

Step 3: Select your train, class, seat and date.

Step 4: Pay for your ticket, usually using cash, mobile payment (Alipay/WeChat) or UnionPay.

How to Buy Train Tickets at the Self-Service Ticket Machine?

Step 1: Follow the signs for "Automatic Ticketing" to find the self-service ticket machines inside the station.

Step 2: These machines mainly recognize Chinese ID cards, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan resident ID cards. However, you can use Foreigner Permanent Residence ID card to buy tickets, but foreign passports are not currently supported, so it is recommended to book tickets online.

Step 3: You may need to use WeChat/Alipay or a Chinese bank card to pay.

How to Buy China Train Tickets Online as a Foreigner?

For large hub stations such as Nanjing South Station, Guangzhou South Station, Xi'an North Station, and Beijing Fengtai Station, due to the large area and large passenger flow of the station area, if you choose to buy tickets at offline counters and ticket machines, it is recommended to arrive at the station at least 1 hour in advance. To save time and avoid missing the train, we recommend that you purchase tickets online in advance through the official website or APP. This way you can avoid waiting in line and enter the station and board the train directly with your e-ticket and passport.

👇 Check out the guide below to help you quickly buy China train tickets online.

Booking China Train Tickets FAQs

What time do China train tickets go on sale?
Tickets go on sale 15 days in advance.

How to book train tickets for the first time?
Use foreigner-friendly platforms like Trip.com to get English support and quick ticket purchases with your passport.

Do I need to book train tickets in advance in China?
Yes, especially on popular routes and during holidays – high-speed trains are often sold out.

Is it cheaper to buy train tickets in advance or on the day?
China train ticket prices are usually fixed (except for some discounted tickets), but last-minute tickets may not be available.

How to pay for train tickets in China?
Cash, mobile pay (WeChat/Alipay), or UnionPay are accepted at stations. Online booking supports international cards.

Can I choose a seat on a China train?
Yes (G/D/C high-speed trains only) - seats are randomly assigned on ordinary trains such as K/Z/T.

China Travel Guide