Trains are a popular mode of transportation in China, but the language barrier can make it challenging. This article provides tips to help you prepare for your first train ride in China.

1. Preparation before departure

Remember to bring your train ticket or booking number and valid documentation. Valid documents include Passport, Residence Permit for Foreigners, Exit and Entry Permit for Foreigners, Diplomat’s card, Certificate at the Consulate, Seamen’s Book/Passport, Foreign Identity Certificate Issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Passport Loss Report Certificate.

2. Get to the train station to collect your ticket

Ensure you double-check the station you are supposed to depart from, as most cities have multiple train stations. It is important to know which one to go to. If you have a paper ticket, you can arrive at the train station one hour before departure. If you need to pick up the ticket at the station, please arrive at least 2 hours in advance. When you book your ticket online, you will receive a collection number starting with the letter ‘E’ followed by nine numbers, e.g. E123456789; EA12345678. With your collection number and valid identification, you can collect your ticket at any ticket window. To avoid long queues, it is advisable to allocate sufficient time for ticket collection. If you plan to travel during Chinese holidays, it is recommended that you collect your ticket in advance.

3. Enter the Station

When entering, present your passport/certificate and ticket to the staff for verification. After verification, retrieve your card and ticket. If you have any luggage, place it on the security check machine before proceeding through the security inspection channel to retrieve your luggage. The following items are not allowed in your luggage.

4. Find the right waiting checking point

Following the security check, an LED screen will display the train allocation for each checking point. Please note that the information on the screen may be displayed in Chinese only. The accompanying picture can assist you in locating the relevant information.  Toilets, convenience stores, newsstands, and drinking water are available in the waiting rooms. During rush hours, the waiting room can become crowded, so it is important to take care of your belongings and wallet. Special tickets, such as the business seat on the high-speed train, provide access to a VIP waiting lounge. Voice announcements will be made for check-in and arrival.

5. Check-in from the checking point

Check-in typically begins 20-30 minutes before departure and ends 5 minutes prior. To locate your train, simply locate thee screen or card displaying your train number. The train status can also be found on the screen. Please note that tickets with different colours correspond to different check-in counters. If you have a blue ticket, you can use the auto-check-in machine. If your ticket is red, a staff member will need to check it manually.

6. Find the train and seat

When boarding your train, please present your ticket to a staff member and ensure that you are boarding the correct train. Upon boarding the train, locate your assigned seat or bunk as indicated on your ticket. Store your luggage either in the overhead rack or under your bunk. For high-speed trains, larger luggage can be placed in the designated luggage space between carriages.  It is important to keep your ticket with you throughout the journey as a conductor may request to see it. Upon arrival at your destination and exiting the station, your ticket will be checked once more.

7. Arrival and Disembarkation

The train’s screen and voice announcement will indicate the next station. Please retrieve your luggage a few minutes before arrival and proceed to the gates promptly as the train stops only briefly. It is advisable to keep your ticket readily available as you will need to present it again upon exiting the station. The signs for the exit are usually clear and easy to follow at train stations. If there is only one exit, following the crowd can be a quick way to find your way out. However, it is important to note that many large railway stations in China have multiple exits, so it is advisable to confirm the correct exit beforehand.  If you need to transfer to another train at the same station, there is no need to exit and re-enter the station. Bilingual signs will be present on the platform to guide you to the waiting room for your next train.

If you have any further questions about your train journey in China, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always available to assist you. Discover China in your own way with My China Holidays team!