Riding high speed trains with foreign passports

Question

Chinese citizens use their ID cards to board their high speed trains without actual tickets. It seems that foreigners can use their passports to board the trains without the actual tickets if they use their passport numbers to book the tickets, from a special entrance. In fact, there might not be actual tickets, even if you want them.

I just want to get this information confirmed from actual passengers who actually took the trains recently.

Answer

Yes, recent experience confirms that foreigners can board China’s high-speed trains using their passport in place of a physical ticket, provided the ticket was booked using the passport number.

Here’s how it works:

When booking tickets online (e.g., via official 12306.cn, Ctrip, Trip.com, or other authorized platforms), you must enter your passport number exactly as it appears.
At the station, there is a special entrance labeled for foreign passengers or “passport check-in” where you show your passport instead of a Chinese ID. This allows access to the platform and boarding the train.
It is not necessary to print a physical ticket if your booking is linked to your passport. The system validates your identity and reservation electronically.
If you prefer, you can still collect a paper ticket at the ticket counter or self-service machines, but it is optional.

Additional notes from actual passengers:

Arrive at the station at least 30–45 minutes before departure, as lines for passport verification can be longer than those for ID card holders.
Passport scanning at the gate is quick and generally works smoothly, but make sure your passport is valid and not damaged.
For connecting trains or very busy routes, having a paper ticket can sometimes reduce waiting time, but most travelers manage fine with just the passport.
Chinese staff are accustomed to foreign travelers using passports, so asking at the station for the “foreigner entrance” or “passport verification gate” works if you are unsure.

In summary, using a passport linked to a booking is fully functional and widely used, and you do not need to print or collect an actual ticket unless you prefer to.