Quick Guide on Train Travel in China

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  High Speed Trains

  The 37,900 km's (23,550 mi) high speed rail enables more than 2,300 pairs of daily bullet trains in operation, connecting almost every large city and top tourist destinations.
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  First Class Seat vs. Second Class Seat

  First class carriage has four seats in a row while second class carriage has five, hence a first class seat is bigger and more comfortable. But its ticket price is 20%-40% higher than that of a second class seat.
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  Which type of train and which class to choose

  High speed types are recommended, with second class seats, first class seats and business class seats for short-time journeys. Soft sleepers and hard sleepers are good choices for an overnight trip.
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  How to buy China rail tickets

  Two methods: book with an online agency as early as possible to ensure the best seat/berth; purchase at a railway station with your original passport at most 28 days in advance.
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  How to collect tickets

  It's unnecessary to have a paper ticket. If you want a receipt for reimbursement, you can have it delivered to a hotel you reserved in China or pick it up at a railway station with your passport and pickup number.
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  How to take a train in China

  Arrive at the right station an hour before departure, enter with your passport via manual channel, go through security check, find your waiting room and check-in gate, and then wait for the check-in.
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  How to read a China train ticket

  Here are clear samples and explanations teaching passengers how to read the information on a ticket, including the station names and departure time.
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  What to do if refund, change or lose a ticket

  Railway tickets can be refunded or changed both before and after issuing. Losing the ticket, you can still take the train with your passport.
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  Weight & size limit for carry-on luggage

  20 kg (44 pounds) per adult and 10 kg (22 pounds) per child, with the total length of each item within 130cm (51 in).