China's 2026 railway Spring Festival travel period spans 40 days, from February 2 to March 13, encompassing the nine-day official holiday from February 15 to February 23.

This travel period will see 539 million railway passenger trips, a 5.0% increase. Ticket sales start on January 19. Sales peaks are forecast for January 29–February 1 (pre-holiday) and February 7–10 (post-holiday returns). 

This year, railway authorities are offering 2026 graduates seeking employment two priority ticket-booking opportunities. Discounted fares continue for students, children, and military or police personnel with disabilities. Additionally, frequent travelers aged 60+ or 14–28 can earn 15x or 10x reward points, respectively, with the valid Resident ID Card, Residence Permit for Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Residents, Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents, and Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card.

Must-Read for Ticket Buyers Key New Changes of This Year

New 12306 Feature: Time-limited Free Refund for Incorrectly Purchased Train Tickets

Starting January 19, the 12306 platform offers free refunds for mistaken ticket purchases for travel dates starting February 2. To qualify, passengers must process the self-service refund within 30 minutes of payment and at least four hours before departure.

Expansion of Railway "Quiet Carriage" Service

Pic from China Railway

Starting February 1, the "Quiet Carriage" service will expand to over 8,000 "D" and "G" series trains (excluding sleeper trains). These carriages are identified by the "静" icon on the 12306 platform, and passengers must accept a "quietness agreement" when booking.

Ski Equipment Can Now Be Taken on High-Speed Rail

Since January 15, select Northeast China trains have piloted the "Ski Gear Convenience" service, identified by the "雪" (Ski) symbol. By reserving online, passengers can carry and store their equipment in designated on-board areas.

Quick Guide for Navigating 12306.cn English Website:https://www.12306.cn/en/index.html

What ID documents are accepted by 12306.cn English website?

https://www.12306.cn/en/faq.html#item0q09

What services does 12306.cn English website provide?

https://www.12306.cn/en/faq.html#item0q07

What is endorsement?

https://www.12306.cn/en/faq.html?item=1

What are the rules of ticket endorsement?

https://www.12306.cn/en/faq.html?item=1