How to Book Flights, Trains, and Hotels in China: A Foreigner’s Travel Guide

1. Booking Flights in China

You can book flights using:

  • Trip.com (English-friendly)
  • Qunar or Feizhu (Alibaba’s Fliggy) – better deals, mostly in Chinese
  • WeChat Mini Programs – fast if your WeChat is verified

 

What you need:

  • Valid passport
  • Sometimes a Chinese phone number
  • Visa info (for international routes)

Pro Tip: Domestic flights are cheaper mid-week. Book 1–2 weeks in advance for better prices.

 


2. Booking Trains in China

Trains are efficient, safe, and punctual — but they get full fast.

Booking options:

  • 12306.cn – official China Railway site (Chinese only)
  • Trip.com – easiest option for foreigners
  • Alipay > Transport > Train Tickets

 

Requirements:

  • Valid passport
  • Real-name verification before booking (usually done via Trip.com or in-person at the station)

 

Train Types:

  • G/D trains = High-speed
  • T/K/Z = Slower, older trains (cheaper)

 


3. Booking Hotels in China

Many hotels do not accept foreigners, so choose wisely.

Apps to use:

  • Trip.com
  • Meituan (美团) (Chinese, cheap)
  • Airbnb (in big cities)

 

What to check:

  • Make sure the listing says “Accepts foreign guests”
  • You’ll need your passport to check-in
  • Hotel staff must scan your passport and submit a report to the police

4. Language Hacks

  • Use Google Translate app or Pleco for translating hotel and train booking pages
  • Save your booking confirmation screenshots in case of app issues

5. Paying for Bookings

  • WeChat Pay and Alipay work best
  • Visa/MasterCard may not be accepted on some apps (except Trip.com)
  • Recharge your payment apps with a local bank card or use HafrikPay’s services

 


Final Thoughts:

China’s travel system is fast and advanced — but not always foreigner-friendly. With the right apps and a little prep, you’ll travel like a local in no time.

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