Travelling with Pets on Trains in China

Photo: International services Shanghai

Travelling on high-speed trains is one of the most convenient ways to get around China, and many pet owners may wonder whether they can bring their cats or dogs along for the journey. This guide covers whether pets are allowed, which pets qualify, the routes currently offering pet consignment, costs involved, the necessary preparations, and the step-by-step process of travelling with your pet by train. Plan your journey and ensure a smooth, comfortable trip for both you and your furry companion.

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Are Pets Allowed on Trains in China?

Yes, pets are allowed on certain high-speed trains in China. Pet transport services on Chinese trains began as a pilot scheme on 8 April 2025. Initially, the service was available on ten trains between five stations on the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway, including Beijing South, Jinan West, Nanjing South, Shanghai Hongqiao, and Hangzhou East. From 20 June 2025, the pilot was expanded to eight high-speed rail lines, covering 25 stations and 38 trains, including the Beijing–Shanghai, Beijing–Guangzhou, Beijing–Harbin, and Shanghai–Kunming routes.

>> Check our China Train Luggage Guide before you travel.

What Pets Are Allowed on Trains in China?

Which Train Routes in China Allow Pet Consignment?

Since 20 June 2025, China Railway has expanded its pet transport pilot programme to 38 bullet trains across eight major high-speed rail routes. These include the Beijing-Shanghai, Beijing-Guangzhou, Beijing-Harbin, and Shanghai-Kunming lines, serving 25 stations in total. Small cats and dogs that meet the size and health requirements can now travel with their owners on these selected services.

As of 20 June 2025, the pet transport service covers the following routes and stations:

How Much Does It Cost to Travel with Pets on Trains in China?

According to the pilot policy announced in April 2025, pet transport fees on high-speed trains are calculated based on travel distance. During the trial period, passengers enjoy a 30% discount on standard prices, and each booking includes free basic insurance worth ¥2,000. Prices generally range from ¥558 to ¥1258 (£60 to £135) at standard rates, or ¥360 to ¥860 (£39 to £92) with the discount applied.

What You Need to Prepare for Pet Consignment?

1. Valid ID

• The same identity document (ID card or passport) used for ticket purchase.

2. Animal Quarantine Certificate (动物检疫合格证明)

• Issued by the local animal health authority.
• Must be valid on the day of travel.
• Departure and destination on the certificate must match the train journey.
• Inspection locations can be checked in the Pet Consignment page on the 12306 App.

3. Train Ticket Proof & Your Pet

• Proof of ticket purchase for the same train on the same day.
• The passenger, consignor, and owner listed on the certificate must be consistent.
• Bring your cat or dog for consignment.

4. Pet Transport Carrier

• During the journey, pets must be housed in standardised high-speed train transport containers provided by railway staff (internal size: 60 × 45 × 46 cm).
• If you bring your own pet carrier, you may take it on board empty after completing consignment procedures.

How to Travel with Pets on Trains in China?

Travelling with pets on Chinese high-speed trains is now possible through the Pet Consignment (宠物托运) service on the 12306 App. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Online Application

• Book through the 12306 App at least 2 days before travel.
• This feature is currently available only on the Chinese version of the App.
• Select “Pet Consignment” (宠物托运) under All Services and link it to your train ticket.
• Each passenger may consign one cat or dog, if healthy, under 15 kg in weight and 40 cm in shoulder height.

2. Required Documents

• The ID or passport used to purchase your ticket.
• A valid Animal Quarantine Certificate (动物检疫合格证明) issued within 3 days.
• Up-to-date vaccination records.

3. At the Departure Station

• Arrive 2–6 hours before departure.
• Go to the China Railway Express (baggage office) with your pet.
• Bring your pet in a secure carrier along with all required documents.
• Complete the consignment check-in procedures.

4. During the Journey

• Pets travel in dedicated consignment containers, separate from passengers.
• Staff will conduct checks and provide water-feeding services at set intervals.
• Pets cannot be accessed during the journey.

5. At the Arrival Station

• Collect your pet at the China Railway Express office.
• Follow the instructions sent via SMS or phone for pick-up.

China Train Travel Guide