How to buy China train tickets as a foreigner (Trip.com or 12306)
Quick answer
The easiest option is Trip.com, which has English and takes foreign cards. The official 12306 app also has English and now accepts Visa, Mastercard and JCB (not AmEx), but registration takes longer. Tickets are electronic: your passport is your ticket. Arrive 30 minutes early.
On this page
Trip.com or 12306?
| Trip.com | 12306 (official railway) | |
|---|---|---|
| English | Yes | Yes, app and website |
| Payment | Foreign cards | Visa, Mastercard, JCB (not AmEx), but foreign cards are often declined. Alipay or WeChat Pay as backup |
| Booking window | You can order early; it buys when sales open | Sales usually open about 15 days ahead |
| Downsides | A small service fee | Passport verification can take a few days; some guides say phone verification needs a mainland, Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan number |
For most visitors: book flights and trains on Trip.com and skip 12306.
If you use 12306
- Download 12306 China Railway or open 12306.cn/en and switch to English.
- Enter your name, nationality and passport number, or upload the passport photo page.
- Use the passport scan to fill in your details, then check them against your passport. Follow the form for name format: if it won't accept spaces, leave them out.
- Wait for verification, which can take days, or verify in person at a station ticket window.
At the station
- Tickets are electronic. Bring your passport.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early. There's a security check.
- Many foreign passports don't work in the automatic gates. Use the staffed lane beside them.
- Boarding closes 3–5 minutes before departure. Late means you miss the train.
Sources: China's official tourism site on train tickets; MTR High Speed Rail on 12306 payments.