To change or refund a China train ticket, go back to the channel where you bought it, act early, and keep your passport and booking details ready. The details depend on the channel and the timing, so confirm on your booking page.
Plans do change, and doing it in a language you do not read is stressful. A calm order of steps helps.
Where should you start?
Start where you bought. Foreigners with ordinary passports can verify their details and buy tickets on 12306[1]. If you used that route, begin in the app.
If you used a booking service, contact them before the station, since they hold your order. Our comparison of Trip.com and 12306 explains the difference.
What should you bring?
- Your passport, because it works as your ticket and ID.
- Your booking confirmation on your phone, with the train number and date.
- The destination and your new plan written in Chinese.
Foreigners must show a passport to buy a long-distance ticket and to pass platform gates[2]. The same passport proves who you are at the counter.
Does timing matter?
Yes. Fees and options usually depend on how close to departure you act, so decide as early as you can. If you are unsure whether you will make a tight connection, read our tight connection planning guide before you book.
How do you handle the station counter?
Allow extra time and arrive early, as stations have bag checks and queues. Arrive 30 to 40 minutes before departure at major stations[3], and earlier if you plan to change a ticket there.
Be polite, show your phone, and let staff look up the booking. Our station security and boarding guide shows how the day flows.
How do you avoid needing a change?
Build slack into the plan. Do not book a train that leaves soon after a flight lands, and check that the station name on the ticket matches your hotel side of town.
Read common first-time train mistakes, then browse our getting around topic page for more planning help.