Popular Train Routes in China for International Travelers

China boasts an extensive railway network that connects major cities across the country. Here are some of the most popular train routes for international travelers:

How to Choose Train Routes?

Choosing the right train route depends on several factors, such as the type of train and the kind of seat you prefer.

Train Type Choices

  • High-Speed Trains (高铁): Perfect for most travelers, especially those taking long-distance intercity trips. High-speed trains are fast, comfortable, and efficient, offering a smooth and quick travel experience.
  • Regular Trains (普通列车): Ideal for budget-conscious travelers. These trains are slower and offer a more basic level of comfort, but they are also more affordable for longer trips.

Seat Choices
High-Speed Train Seats:

  • Second Class Seat (二等座): The most economical option on high-speed trains. While comfortable, it offers slightly less space and fewer amenities compared to first class.
  • First Class Seat (一等座): Provides more comfort and a little more space. Ideal for those who want a balance between comfort and cost.
  • Business Class Seat (商务座 / Premier Seat): Offers the highest level of comfort with more space, wider seats, and additional amenities. Perfect for travelers who prioritize luxury and comfort on longer journeys.

Regular Train Seats:

  • Soft Sleeper (软卧): Provides a high level of comfort, ideal for long-distance travel. These cabins offer a peaceful environment with soft beds, making it suitable for overnight or long-haul journeys.
  • Hard Sleeper (硬卧): A more budget-friendly option, but with slightly less comfort. It offers bunks in open compartments and is great for travelers who are looking for a low-cost alternative.
  • Soft Seat (软座): Offers a comfortable and spacious seat, perfect for short to medium-distance journeys. These seats are comfortable but not as plush as the premium options.
  • Hard Seat (硬座): The most economical option, but not the most comfortable for long journeys. Suitable for budget travelers who want to minimize costs, but be prepared for a less comfortable experience on long trips.

Common Regulations for Items Allowed on Trains

Everyday Essentials

  • Allowed
    • Disinfectant wipes containing 75% alcohol
  • Restricted
    • Toiletries or household items with flammable ingredients such as floral water, medicated oils, perfumes, sprays, and gels. Non-aerosol containers must be under 100 ml, limited to one item of each type.
    • Aerosol containers such as perm lotion, hair dye, mousse, hair spray, insect repellent, and air freshener. Each container must be under 150 ml, one of each type, with a total not exceeding 600 ml.
    • Power banks and lithium batteries are permitted if clearly labeled. Each unit must not exceed 100Wh (excluding wheelchairs powered by lithium batteries).
    • Nail polish and nail polish remover are limited to a combined total of 50 ml.
    • Safety matches: up to 2 small boxes. Standard lighters: up to 2 pieces.
    • Cigarettes: up to 50 cartons. E-cigarettes are allowed in limited quantity but should not be used onboard.

Food Items

  • Prohibited
    • Self-heating meal packs that contain magnesium-aluminum powder as the heating agent.
  • Allowed
    • Meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood products when packed in sealed containers. Items such as fish, shrimp, crabs, shellfish, and mollusks may be carried as long as they are well-sealed and properly stored.
    • Strong-smelling foods like durian, stinky tofu, and Luosifen are permitted if vacuum-sealed. However, please do not consume them inside the train.
    • Cooked products like sausages and ham are allowed, but handle them carefully.
    • Perishable foods such as dumplings and rice balls are permitted if sealed, but travelers should take extra care to prevent spoilage.
    • Cooking oil may be carried if properly sealed and stored.
  • Restricted
    • Alcoholic beverages with alcohol content between 24% and 70% are allowed if the packaging is sealed and clearly labeled. The total volume must not exceed 3,000 ml.

Tools and Equipment

  • Allowed
    • Foldable strollers, wheelchairs, and camping carts are permitted, but make sure they meet size limits.
    • Small drones may be carried, but their use is prohibited inside stations and along railway tracks.
  • Restricted
    • Everyday knives such as scissors, fruit knives, utility knives, and kitchen knives are permitted only if the blade does not exceed 60 mm.
    • Bicycles and balance scooters are allowed only when packed in hard cases, but their use is strictly prohibited in stations and on trains.

Why Travel by Train Across China?

Affordable and Transparent Pricing

Chinese train ticket prices are regulated, offering transparent and predictable costs, making it a reliable travel option.

Convenient and Scenic Routes

Train travel offers an opportunity to see the beautiful landscapes of China while traveling between major cities.

Comfort and Flexibility

Whether you’re on a high-speed train or a regular one, the comfort level is tailored to meet different budgets and needs.

Tips for Booking Cheap Train Tickets in China

  • Book in Advance: Train tickets in China can typically be purchased up to 15 days in advance. Booking early often results in better prices, so it’s recommended to secure your tickets as soon as possible to get the best deals.
  • Travel During Shoulder Seasons: For lower fares and more pleasant weather, consider traveling in the months of March-May or September-November.
  • Be Flexible: If the tickets for your desired route are sold out, you can often buy tickets for an earlier station. For instance, if you can’t get a ticket from Hangzhou to Beijing, try booking a ticket from Shanghai to Beijing, with a stop in Hangzhou. While the price may be slightly higher, it’s often a viable solution.
  • Use Multiple Search Platforms: Don’t just rely on one platform for booking. Check different platforms to find the best ticket deals.
Start Your Journey Today →

FAQ

It depends on the ticket type and service provider. Typically, you can cancel your train ticket for free up to 3 days before departure. After that, a cancellation fee may apply. Be sure to check the specific terms for your ticket.

Regardless of where you purchase your tickets, you can pick up your tickets at any authorized ticket counter or platform in China. Be sure to bring your passport and booking reference number.

Yes, you’ll need to show your passport when boarding your train.