Buying train tickets from Hong Kong to Guangzhou

Question

Hello - we hope to travel from Hong Kong to Guangzhou by train on February 3 and return February 13. How do we go about securing tickets? On the MTR site, it looks like we need a HK mobile number to register to buy online. Is it possible to buy tickets on the day of travel from the West Kowloon station? Thanks in advance for any advice. Jeremy Parkinson

Answer

Traveling from Hong Kong to Guangzhou by high-speed train is straightforward, but there are a few details to note when booking tickets, especially for foreign travelers without a local Hong Kong mobile number.

Here’s how you can secure your tickets:

Online Booking: The official MTR website for the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link allows online booking. However, registration typically requires a Hong Kong mobile number, which can be inconvenient for international travelers.
Alternative Online Options: Some third-party travel platforms and Chinese train booking apps allow foreigners to book tickets without a local number. These platforms often accept international passport numbers directly during booking.
On-the-Day Purchase: You can buy tickets at West Kowloon Station on the day of travel. The station has ticket counters and self-service machines. It is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak travel seasons like February, as tickets can sell out.

Tips for buying at West Kowloon Station:

Bring your passport, as it is required for ticket purchase and boarding.
Arrive at least 45–60 minutes before departure to allow time for security checks and immigration control.
Consider flexible travel times; if your preferred train is fully booked, later trains may still have availability.

Additional advice:

If your travel dates are fixed (February 3 and 13), it’s safer to secure tickets a few days in advance using a travel agent or third-party online booking service to guarantee seats.
For return tickets, you can either book both legs together or purchase the return ticket after arriving in Guangzhou, but booking in advance avoids last-minute uncertainty.
Payment at the station can be made by cash or credit card (Visa/MasterCard are generally accepted).

In summary, while online booking directly via MTR may be limited by the Hong Kong phone requirement, you still have reliable options: buy at West Kowloon station, use a third-party platform, or a travel agent. Arriving early at the station is key to ensuring smooth travel.

Buying train tickets from Hong Kong to Guangzhou

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