Buying and boarding high-speed rail

✅ Updated Apr 2026

High-speed rail (高铁) is the best way to travel between Chinese cities. Buy tickets in the official 12306 app or via a partner, then board with your passport.

1. 1

   Book on 12306 (or Trip.com) using your passport as ID.

2. 2

   Arrive 40–60 min early; passports use the manned lane, not the gates.

   人工检票口 · réngōng jiǎnpiào kǒu

3. 3

   Find your platform on the big screen by train number (e.g. G1234).

4. 4

   Match the carriage number on the platform floor markings.