trains

I am hoping to travel to shanghai from Guilin in October.

is it correct that they can't be purchased this far in advance?

thanks

When planning a train trip from Guilin to Shanghai in October, there are a few important points to keep in mind regarding ticket purchases and availability.

In China, high-speed train tickets can usually be booked up to 30 days in advance. For regular trains, the booking window may vary but is generally around 30-60 days. Therefore, trying to purchase tickets several months ahead of your intended travel date is not possible through official channels.

Here are some practical considerations:

  • Booking window: High-speed (G, D trains) tickets open 30 days before departure. Regular trains (T, K trains) may have a slightly longer window, but generally not more than 60 days in advance.
  • Popular routes: Guilin to Shanghai is a busy route, especially in October, which is a peak travel month due to National Day holidays. Tickets may sell out quickly once they become available.
  • Booking methods: Tickets can be booked through China Railway’s official website, apps like 12306, or via travel agencies. Using a local travel agent can help secure tickets once they become available if you are not in China.

Practical advice:

  • Mark your calendar for 30 days before your intended travel date to check ticket availability.
  • Consider flexible travel dates or alternative trains/times to increase your chances of getting a ticket.
  • If you are traveling during a busy period, try booking through a reputable travel agent who can act quickly once tickets are released.
  • Keep in mind that tickets for popular trains may sell out within minutes of release, so being ready online or through a travel agent is helpful.

In summary, it is correct that train tickets cannot be purchased months in advance. You should plan to book closer to the 30-day window, especially for high-speed trains on a busy route like Guilin to Shanghai.


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