Compare the whole journey between hotels
When choosing between rail and air, compare the complete journey rather than only the time on board. Include checkout, travel to the terminal, the time needed there, and the transfer after arrival. Look at what remains of the day once you reach the next hotel.
Also consider the number of changes and how much luggage you will handle. A connection that looks efficient on a timetable may feel very different with children, limited mobility or several large bags.
Match the ticket to your travel document
China Railway uses real-name ticketing. Enter passenger details accurately and carry the original valid document used for the booking. The official 12306 website provides booking guidance for foreign passport holders.
Before travel, check the date, train number, departure and arrival stations, and any seat information in your booking. Keep the booking reference accessible. If a passport has changed since the ticket was issued, resolve the mismatch through the booking channel before the journey.
Use the full station name
Do not shorten a station name to the city alone. Save the exact departure and arrival names in Chinese, and show that version to a driver when needed. Check the meeting point separately from the train platform; a station can have more than one entrance or exit.
- Which hotel or address are you leaving from?
- Which station entrance or drop-off point is planned?
- Where will you meet after arrival?
- Which contact should receive an update if the journey changes?
Move through the station one step at a time
Keep your travel document and train details within reach. Follow the station’s current instructions for identity checks, security and the waiting area. Use the train number to identify the departure on the information board, then confirm the boarding gate and follow announcements.
If the document reader does not accept your passport, ask staff for assistance rather than repeatedly trying another gate. Keep companions together when passing through checks, and agree a meeting place if anyone becomes separated.
Pack so that you can handle your own bags
Plan for lifting, carrying and keeping track of the luggage you bring. Put documents, personal essentials, charging items and anything needed during the journey in an accessible bag, so you do not have to open a large suitcase in a busy aisle.
Check the current railway conditions for luggage and restricted items before packing; do not assume airline rules are identical. For a wheelchair, pushchair or assistance requirement, establish the station arrangements in advance rather than relying on help being available without notice.
Keep ticket changes and arrival transfers connected
If a train changes or a connection is missed, use the channel that issued your ticket and follow the current railway instructions. Change options depend on the ticket and available services; a later train should not be assumed to be automatically included.
Once a new journey is confirmed, update the person handling the onward transfer with the revised train, station and arrival details. Save the new booking and clearly mark the previous version as outdated. The rail journey and the arrival pickup are separate arrangements that need to stay aligned.
Official information
Reviewed on October 3, 2026
