FAQ / LANDING FAILURE

How do foreigners buy train tickets on 12306?

Use official 12306 channels, complete passport identity verification before purchase, and keep the original document.

Practical · Source-backed · Recheck before travel dates

01 / STORY

Answer

China’s official guidance says foreign travelers can use passports on the 12306 English website/app and must complete identity verification before purchase.

Enter names exactly as printed on the passport. Online verification may check details automatically or ask for a passport-photo upload; station counters remain a fallback.

An itinerary sheet is not a ticket for check-in. Bring the original booking document to the station.

04 / FACTS

Sources and dates

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