Practical guide
01
Book through official real-name channels
The English 12306 website accepts valid foreign passports under the applicable rules. Booking details must match the document carried for travel; China Railway warns that it does not handle problems arising from third-party booking sites.
- Enter names exactly as instructed from the passport
- Check passport number, nationality and date of birth
- Keep order details; an itinerary sheet is not a boarding document
- Use the original channel for changes and refunds
02
Allow time for station checks
Carry the passport used to book and allow time for security, manual document checks and finding the gate. Do not assume similarly named stations are nearby.
- Confirm the station's full name
- Add more buffer on holidays
- Plan airport-to-station transfers realistically
- Flag large luggage and accessibility needs early
Official sources and further reading
Important
Rules and service availability can change. Review the official source and ask your advisor to verify your specific route before booking.