Practical guide
China rail ticket changes and refunds: use 12306 or the station ticket office
Make the change in the official channel, then check the live fee before you confirm it.
The State Council’s English guide says foreign travelers can change or refund China Railway tickets through the 12306 English website or app, or at a railway-station ticket office. It says service fees may be charged depending on the timing of a ticket change, cancellation or new travel date. Keep the original valid identification document used for purchase and rely on the current 12306 result for availability and fees.
A clear next step
- Use the official 12306 English website or app, or go to a railway-station ticket office.
- Check the live fee and new train availability before confirming a change or cancellation.
- Keep the original valid ID used to buy the ticket with you for station verification and boarding.
Sources & verification
Last verified
- Guide to Working and Living in China (2025) | State Council of the People’s Republic of China 12306 English site, app and station-office change/refund routes · timing-dependent service-fee context · original-ID station verification requirement
Continue planning