High speed train in China with a kid

Question

Hi,

We will be taking some high speed train one of them being Chengdu to Guilin which will take around 5 hours. Just wondering if we need to get a ticket for our 4-year old son. And if so, are tickets for kids cheaper?

Answer

Traveling on high-speed trains in China with young children follows specific ticketing rules that are important to know.

1. Ticket requirement for children:

Children under 6 years old may travel without a full ticket, but there are conditions based on height:

Children under 1.2 meters (approx. 3’11”) can travel for free if they do not occupy a seat. They will share the seat with a guardian.
Children over 1.2 meters must have a regular ticket.
Children between 1.2 meters and 1.5 meters often qualify for a half-price ticket, but they must have their own seat.

For a 4-year-old, the height is typically below 1.2 meters, but it’s important to check your child’s exact height. If your child is under 1.2 meters, you can usually take them on board for free without a separate seat. If your child exceeds 1.2 meters, a ticket will be required.

2. Ticket types and pricing:

Full adult ticket: Standard price according to class (second class, first class, business class).
Half-price ticket: Usually for children between 1.2–1.5 meters, offering a discounted fare.
Free ticket: Children under 1.2 meters without a seat.

3. Tips for traveling with children:

If your child qualifies for free travel, bring identification or proof of age/height in case inspectors ask.
If the train is very busy, it may be more comfortable to purchase a half-price ticket so your child has their own seat.
Book tickets in advance if possible, especially for longer routes like Chengdu to Guilin (around 5 hours), to ensure seats together with your child.

In summary, your 4-year-old may travel free on high-speed trains if under 1.2 meters and without a seat. If taller, a half-price or full ticket will be required. Always check the exact height and ticket rules when booking.

High speed train in China with a kid

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