Train

Question

h we will be travelling inter-city by train but it seems that often the trains are full and one can't take them! As we want to plan our holiday and book our hotels in advance, this is a huge hassle. In our 10 days in China, we probably want to visit 5 or 6 different towns/ cities there,

Any advice please

Answer

Traveling by train in China is very popular and convenient, but as you’ve noticed, tickets for high-speed and inter-city trains can sell out quickly, especially during holidays, weekends, or peak tourist seasons. Planning ahead is essential if you want to visit multiple cities within a fixed 10-day schedule. Here are some detailed tips and strategies:

1. Book as early as possible

Tickets for most trains in China can be booked 30 days in advance online for high-speed trains and 60 days for some slower trains. Use official platforms such as 12306.cn (China Railway official site) or reputable travel agencies like Ctrip/Trip.com.
Booking early ensures you get your preferred train times and seat types (second class, first class, or business class).

2. Flexible scheduling and alternative trains

If a train is fully booked, check slightly earlier or later trains on the same route. Many routes have frequent high-speed services, so adjusting by a few hours often works.
Consider slower trains (non high-speed) as a backup; they are often less crowded and cheaper, though they take longer.
Traveling overnight is another option. Sleeper trains can save daytime for sightseeing and reduce the need for hotels on certain nights.

3. Consider travel passes and multiple bookings

For visiting 5–6 cities in 10 days, plan your route logically to minimize backtracking. A north-to-south or east-to-west sequence works best.
Some travelers book all train tickets for their full itinerary at once through travel agencies to secure seats, especially during peak seasons.
High-speed train passes are available for foreigners (like China Rail Pass) but require consecutive travel days, so weigh whether it fits your schedule.

4. Backup options if trains are full

Domestic flights: China’s internal flights are often inexpensive if booked in advance. They can save time on longer routes (e.g., Beijing to Xi’an or Chengdu to Guilin).
Long-distance buses: Usually reliable for routes not served by high-speed trains. Buses often have multiple daily departures.
Private car hire or shared van: For short distances or rural areas, these are flexible but more expensive.

5. Hotel planning

Book hotels once your train tickets are confirmed. Many cities have flexible cancellation policies, so you can adjust if train plans change.
Choosing hotels near train stations can reduce stress if you have tight connections.

6. General tips

Download the official 12306 app or register online to monitor ticket availability. Tickets sometimes become available shortly before departure due to cancellations.
Bring your passport when collecting tickets at the station, as it is required for foreigners.
Arrive at stations early, especially for high-speed trains, as security checks and long platforms can take time.

In summary, planning your train travel carefully, booking as early as possible, and having backup options (flights, buses, or flexible dates) will make visiting 5–6 cities in 10 days manageable. Prioritize routes with frequent trains and consider travel sequence to maximize sightseeing while minimizing risk of sold-out trains.

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