How to TRAVEL BY TRAIN in CHINA, ULTIMATE GUIDE!

Summary

The video offers a detailed walkthrough of the Harbin train station, highlighting the process of entering, purchasing tickets, undergoing security checks, and boarding a train in China. It emphasizes the efficiency and cleanliness of Chinese train stations, as well as the convenience of digital ticketing and the comfort of the train journey. The video also touches on the unique experience of traveling by train in China, including the ability to order food directly to your seat and the well-managed train schedules with minimal delays.

Takeaways

• 🌞 The video was filmed in Harbin during a very hot end of July, showcasing the city's main train station.
• 🚉 Chinese train stations, including the one in Harbin, are described as large and similar to airports in terms of operations and size.
• 🎫 The process of buying train tickets online is mentioned, with a note on the different experiences foreigners might have compared to locals.
• 📅 Passport control is required for foreigners to enter train stations in China, as the local residents use their Chinese ID cards.
• 🛂 Security checks at train stations in China are quick but mandatory for all passengers.
• 🚪 Train stations have specific gates that open at scheduled times for boarding, and passengers need to check their train and gate information.
• 🛋 The waiting halls in Chinese train stations are large to accommodate the high volume of passengers.
• 🚄 Trains in China are described as clean, well-managed, and punctual, with minimal delays.
• 💺 Assigned seating is standard in Chinese trains, and the video provides insights into the second class seating arrangement.
• 📱 Wi-Fi and mobile data connectivity are available on trains, ensuring passengers can stay connected even in remote areas.
• 🍔 Food can be ordered through a QR code on train seats, with options for delivery from various fast-food chains and local restaurants.

Q & A

Where is the speaker located at the beginning of the video?

The speaker is in Harbin at the end of July.

How does the speaker describe the weather in Harbin during their visit?

The speaker describes the weather as very hot with the sun shining.

What is the main topic the speaker wants to showcase in the video?

The main topic the speaker wants to showcase is a Chinese train station.

What is the process for foreigners to purchase train tickets in China according to the video?

Foreigners can purchase train tickets either online or at the ticket counter in the train station using their passport.

How does the speaker describe the security check at the train station?

The speaker describes the security check as similar to an airport, where luggage is scanned and passengers are also scanned, but not as rigorously.

What is the procedure for entering the train platform area in China?

To enter the train platform area, passengers must undergo ID control and security check. Foreigners usually need to have their passport manually checked by an officer.

How does the speaker describe the waiting hall in Chinese train stations?

The speaker describes the waiting hall as quite large and similar in size to those in big cities in China, with many shops located upstairs.

What is the speaker's impression of train travel in China?

The speaker finds train travel in China to be very comfortable, with nice seating, Wi-Fi availability, and trains that are usually on time or have minimal delays.

How does the speaker describe the process of boarding the train?

The speaker describes the process of boarding the train as requiring passengers to scan their ID or passport again at the gate before entering the platform.

What type of train does the speaker take and what is their seat number?

The speaker takes a second-class train with a seat number of 1C in car number 5.

What additional service does the train offer for passengers?

The train offers a service where passengers can order food from different train stations or fast-food brands, which is then delivered directly to their seat.

What is the speaker's final destination and what are their plans there?

The speaker's final destination is Chichha, where they plan to explore and try the local barbecue.

Outlines

00:00

🚂 Exploring Harbin's Main Train Station

The video begins with the host in Harbin during a hot summer day, highlighting the city's main train station. The host compares the size and organization of Chinese train stations to airports, emphasizing the large scale and efficiency. The video then takes the viewer through the process of entering the station, including showing a passport for identity verification and purchasing tickets online. It also touches on the unique experiences of foreigners in China, such as the manual entry of passport information due to less exposure to foreign travelers in certain areas. The host also discusses the security checks and the process of finding the correct gate for boarding, providing insights into the train station's operations and the experience of traveling in China.

05:02

🛂 Entering the Train Station and Boarding Process

This paragraph details the procedures for entering the train station and boarding a train in China. The host explains the necessity of showing a Chinese ID or passport for both locals and foreigners. The video showcases the cleanliness and management of Chinese train stations, comparing them to small airports. It also highlights the punctuality of trains and the availability of Wi-Fi and mobile data even in remote areas. The host then shares the experience of waiting at the platform, the process of scanning IDs for a second time before boarding, and the convenience of having meals delivered directly to the train seats from various fast-food chains. The paragraph ends with the host expressing appreciation for the tidiness and well-maintained nature of Chinese train stations.

10:03

🚄 Experience on the Train and Arrival at Chichiha

The host continues the journey by discussing the different classes of trains in China, the ease of finding one's seat with assigned numbers, and the comfort of second-class seating. The video provides a glimpse of the train's speed and the experience of traveling at around 350 kilometers per hour. Upon arrival at Chichiha, the host describes the small, countryside-like train station and the process of exiting the station, which mirrors the entry process with ID scanning. The video concludes with the host's excitement to explore Chichiha, particularly its famous barbecue, and bids farewell to the audience, promising more adventures in the next video.

15:05

🎶 Background Music and Video Transition

This paragraph is dedicated to the background music used throughout the video, which enhances the viewing experience and sets the mood for each segment. The music helps to transition smoothly between different parts of the video, from exploring the train station to boarding the train and finally arriving at the destination. It serves as an auditory backdrop that complements the visual content and keeps the audience engaged throughout the video.

Keywords

💡Harbin

Harbin is the capital city of Heilongjiang Province in Northeast China, known for its cold winters and the famous Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. In the video, the author is currently in Harbin during a hot summer day and uses it as a starting point to introduce the local train station and travel experience.

💡Train Station

A train station is a central location where trains stop to pick up and drop off passengers. In the context of the video, the author describes the Harbin main train station as being very large and similar to an airport in terms of its operations and facilities, highlighting the efficiency and cleanliness of Chinese train stations.

💡Passport Control

Passport control refers to the process of verifying the identity and eligibility of people to enter or leave a country. In the video, the author explains that foreigners must go through passport control at the train station, which involves manual checking of passports by an officer since the automatic scanners are typically for Chinese ID cards only.

💡Security Check

A security check is a procedure conducted to ensure public safety by screening individuals and their belongings for potential threats. In the video, the author describes the security process at the train station, which includes scanning luggage and passengers, akin to airport security but less stringent.

💡Ticketing

Ticketing refers to the process of purchasing, distributing, and using tickets for transportation. The author mentions both online ticket purchasing and the physical ticket pounder at the station. It's noted that tickets are now digital and linked to one's ID or passport, eliminating the need for physical tickets.

💡Gate and Platform

In the context of train stations, a gate is an entry point that leads to the platforms where trains stop for boarding and alighting. The author explains the process of finding and waiting at the correct gate and platform for the train, which is assigned at the time of ticket purchase.

💡Waiting Hall

A waiting hall is an area in a train station where passengers wait for their train to board. The author describes the waiting hall in Harbin as being quite large to accommodate the high volume of people using the train system in China.

💡Train Classes

Train classes refer to the different levels of service and comfort provided on a train, usually at varying prices. The author mentions second-class seating and considers looking at first-class accommodations, indicating a tiered system of travel classes on Chinese trains.

💡Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Wi-Fi and connectivity refer to the availability of wireless internet access and the ability to connect to mobile data networks. The author praises the consistent Wi-Fi and 4G/5G connectivity on Chinese trains, even in remote areas, which allows passengers to remain connected during their journey.

💡QR Code and Food Ordering

QR Code is a type of barcode that can be scanned using a smartphone to access information quickly. In the video, the author mentions that passengers can scan QR codes on their train seats to order food from various options, including fast food brands, which is then delivered directly to their seat.

💡Chichihara

Chichihara is a city in Heilongjiang Province, China, mentioned as the destination of the author's train journey. The city is known for its barbecue cuisine, which the author expresses excitement to try in its original form.

Highlights

The speaker is in Harbin, noting the hot weather and sunny conditions in late July.

Chinese train stations, including the one in Harbin and Shanghai, are compared to airports in size and functionality.

The process of buying train tickets in China is described, with options for purchasing online or in person using a passport.

Foreigners may experience a longer ID check at train stations due to less familiarity with their documents.

Security checks at train stations in China are mentioned, involving scanning luggage and a quick body scan.

Train stations in China require passengers to show their ID and ticket for entry and to access the platform.

The speaker describes the vast waiting halls in Chinese train stations, highlighting the country's efficient movement of people.

The cleanliness and management of Chinese train stations are praised, with a comparison to airports.

Trains in China are noted for their punctuality and functional design, with comfortable seating.

Wi-Fi availability on trains and the nationwide coverage of 4G and 5G networks are mentioned, allowing for work and entertainment during travel.

The process of boarding the train involves scanning IDs or passports again at the platform entrance.

The speaker's experience at the Harbin train station is described as positive, with a focus on the station's aesthetics.

Different classes of trains (D and G) and their characteristics are briefly explained.

The convenience of reserving seats on trains in China is highlighted, with assigned seating for all classes.

The option to order food from various brands via QR codes on train seats is mentioned, showcasing the integration of technology in train travel.

Exiting the train station also requires scanning an ID or passport, with assistance available for foreigners.

The speaker's anticipation for exploring Chichengha and trying local barbecue reflects the cultural aspect of travel.

Transcripts

today I'm in Harbin it's in end of July

it's very very hot the sun is shining

and I want to show you today a Chinese

train station because most of the train

stations in China also in Shanghai where

I live but here I think as well uh very

big almost like an airport so behind me

you can see right now the harpen main

train station in the city center and now

we will go inside and have a look how

it's going there

[Music]

thank you

[Music]

so over there you can see now we have to

give our passport you can also buy the

tickets over here you can see right

there's a ticket pounder you could go

there with your passport as a foreigner

to buy your tickets but I bought it

online I will also put a screenshot here

how I bought it online and how you can

buy it then later on I'm also online as

a foreigner and after this all the

Chinese people they use their Chinese ID

as you can see right here to scan and

get into the train station

this usually does not work for

foreigners with the passport so you have

to go to this person over there who will

manually put this information of your

passport in the computer

[Music]

so I will go right to him right now to

give him my passport and let's see if we

get in because in China you cannot enter

the train station without an ID control

there's no way otherwise

yo

so he's asking me right now for my

passport

so he's checking it

foreign

check this took about now like five

minutes because

um they are not very used to foreigners

here in this area so this guy didn't see

a foreign passport for quite a while I

guess and I had to explain him if he has

to use my Visa number which didn't work

but of course he had to use my passport

number and he couldn't find my passport

number so I had to help him to put in my

passport number on his computer but this

is quite normal sometimes when you are

more like certain areas in China where

they are not so used to foreigners but

now the next step after the ID control

what you always have to do here in the

train station in China is the security

check so you can see here you have to

scan your luggage and everything and

they also gonna scan you they don't do

it as serious as in a yeah airports it's

just like a very quick scan but

everybody who wants to go into the train

station has to undertake this step so

now I got go there and do this as well

okay now we pass the security control

it's usually a lot of squeezing but it

goes quite quickly because as I said

they don't check you as serious as on

the airport this takes about yeah less

than five minutes mostly and then the

next thing we can do is we can check

where our train gate is because here are

the gates like you cannot just go onto

the rail as you want you have to wait

until they open the gates for you so

there you can see for example my train

is

c923 to chichiha South and this one is

leaving around 12 37 and I have to go to

check eight and nine

so now we go up to the different Gates

usually the gates are like in the second

floor because then you have to go down

again to the railway

and upstairs you can find a lot of shops

I will show you this in a minute

[Music]

okay now we arrived in the waiting Hall

as you can see because in China of

course there are so many people The

Waiting Hall is quite huge

this one is like very normal train style

a train station size and the big cities

in China for example I think the ones in

Shanghai are quite even bigger and in

Shanghai I think they have now four or

five of those so this is how they're

moving basically the people around the

country and over there you can see

already the different entrances I have

to find now entrance eight and nine

years entrance for 12 and 30. and just

to sum it up again as I said before

you cannot show or you cannot get in

without showing your passport or your

Chinese ID and you can also not get onto

the platform without a ticket so the

train stations here they are very clean

they are very well managed and they

basically yeah they are basically

working like a small airport and the

trains here I will show you later the

train of course are also very functional

usually they have no delay or they if we

have like a just a few two or three

minutes delay that's quite normal here

so for me personally riding a train is

very very nice in China because you have

nice comfortable seats I bought right

now a ticket for the second class I will

show you how the second class looks like

and maybe we can also have a look into

the first class so that you get a

feeling for it and you also

always the Wi-Fi you always have the

internet connection now another Wi-Fi

sometimes doesn't work that's not true

but you always have the 4G and the 5G

like even when I was in the inner

Mongolian desert with the train I could

always access my mobile data what do you

have quite a lot here in China and with

this I could still work or watch movies

or whatever I like to do in the train so

it's very convenient

and I will see now if I'm on the right

date and I come back to you when I

bought a train see you in a minute

[Applause]

so right now we are on the gate eight

and nine I'm waiting for the train to

board as you can see here a lot of

people as well

[Music]

so now comes a little bit of tricky part

again as I said before when you want to

go on the platform of the train you will

have to scan your ID again like you

don't need a paper ticket anymore as a

couple years ago it's just bound to your

ID or to your passport so there's no

need for you anymore to pick up the

ticket and the counter as it was before

you just show them your passport

sometimes on some train stations you can

scan your passport and the Machine as

the people do with ID and you can enter

the train station but I checked already

here and you can see they only allow you

to scan the Chinese plastic card ideas

yeah

so what you have to do then is usually

on every gate not usually all the time

at every gate they have like a officer

working there and she has also a

separated scanning machine and in this

separated scanning machine as you can

see right here they scan it for the

people who can't like have the digital

ID or have some trouble and yeah fast

forwarding us is also sometimes a little

bit trouble so basically you have to

look for those purses here who scan it

and then you just line up in this line

and you go through there and show them

your passport again so this is what I'm

doing right now I'm gonna line up and

wait until it's my turn and then

hopefully they let me in and I see you

on a bit at the train

okay so now it's our turn let's see how

that goes with giving her my passport

and how she's doing

[Music]

keeping like crazy because we are

scanning the IDS and let's go down to

the train State it's also my first time

in this train station and I can't see

already it looks very very beautiful so

oh yeah this looks like almost like

Harry Potter Style

very nice let me turn the camera so you

can see it as well

that's a very beautiful train station I

like it very much like hoppin is usually

famous for the ice City and the window

so they have like a Ice Festival and

it's up to minus 30 degrees so I

mentioned this one can look even more

beautiful like in the winter time it's a

little bit like

um Harry Potter style I would say I like

it very much and as you can see there's

no people waiting on the platforms just

people going to the trains because as I

said before and as you just see you can

only enter the platform with your ID so

that makes it very sexual and very clean

as I also said before I find those

Chinese train stations for the security

or the tidiness and everything very very

well man attached so let's see now about

the train

clean and how well managed to train this

or not and I will be there in a bit see

you soon

okay now we arrived at our train there's

two different ones and I must admit they

look quite different from the trains I'm

used to in the Yangtze River delta in

Shanghai so there are different classes

of trains like D and G like I can also

put you like what it means here in the

video the different train classes and

you can also find in your ticket what

you order online your train Bacon number

and your trained seat number you don't

have to pay anything extra for this

reserved seat you have to get a assigned

seat anyways that's very normal there

are sometimes some spending tickets so

they can also provide some tickets for

people when the train is fully booked

for the seats but usually all the time

when your book closer second class or

any class you will get assigned your

seat

[Music]

I have to find right now the vacant

number five now we are on rating number

two so we still have a bit to go

[Music]

okay now we found the way number five

seed 1C

so this should be very easy to

fight on the one end or the other

and welcome to the second class train in

China

so I have the one C so I'm seated right

here

and the first thing you can see they all

Drive in the same direction so you don't

have any trouble to drive like once yeah

I recorded a short video for you where

you can see how all the seats in the

second and first class can be arranged

to sit in the same direction and here

you can see the train and average goes

about 350 kilometers per hour

we arrived now at shijiha train station

I will also put you some pictures in how

to train inside looks like for the first

class and the second class wide as the

trains I'm used to in South China

but it's okay for the ticket just about

100 rminbi what is roughly like 15 to

have like one and a half hours to

chichiha it was totally fine and you can

also scan the QR code in the train seats

where you can order some food like they

have different options from different

train stations where they have the why

my what means like the food delivery

guys they bring McDonald's or other

Chinese Brands like fast food brands and

normal food directly to the train

station and then they pick it up for you

and they distribute it from the board

restaurant to the different seats and

you can have some food besides the food

they have on the train

okay now as you can see behind me and

around me of course a lot of people

rushing out of the train station this

one as you can see is a very small train

station

it's more like a yeah Countryside train

station I would almost say but now let

me get my luggage and go down here

now we are almost on the exit of this

train station here in chichiha and even

on the exit of the train station you

have to scan before it was your ticket

now it's just your ID you have to scan

it again so they're gonna leave you out

like I will show you right here

so the going out process from the

platform is exactly the same as going on

to the platform and for the foreigners

if you cannot use your passport on the

machine you can just basically again as

before ask this guy to take your

passport and scan in with this machine

so that's it he let me go out

so I'm out of the train station and now

I'm ready to explore chichiha I heard

tsuchiha is quite famous for the

barbecue so let's see if that's true but

I already tried some chichiha barbecues

before in Shanghai was quite good so now

I'm looking forward to try the original

one so I say goodbye to this train

station and goodbye to you guys and see

you on the next one

[Music]

thank you

[Music]