K696 is a K train route originating from
Datong at 16:30, and arriving at the final destination of
Beijing at 22:35. The duration of the total journey is
6 hrs 5 mins. There are 6 stops in total:
Datong, Yanggao, Tianzhen, Chaigoubao, Zhangjiakou, Beijing. You can purchase
tickets starting at, and ending at any station. Ticket prices are set on a per kilometer basis.
What’s the different between Business, First and Second class?
Second class is the standard seating which normally takes up 80%+ of the train. Seats are configured in a 3 + 2 arrangement and are spacious compared to plane seats. First class seats are wider, positioned in a 2+2 arrangement, have slightly more legroom and a foldout foot stand. Business class is the top class (Yes, it’s opposite to airplanes), and is typically a 2+1 arrangement. It’s much like first class on a plane, with full lie-flat electric seats and (some) complimentary food.
How fast are the trains?
G trains are the fastest, travelling at 300 km/h on all routes, and 350 km/h on select routes including Beijing to Shanghai. D trains are also quite fast, travelling at 200-250 km/h. Other trains travel between 100-140 km/h and aren’t considered high-speed.
Is there a discount for return tickets?
No, only single direction train tickets can be purchased. Although some services will allow you to purchase return tickets, this is really just two one-way fares and there is no discount.
How far in advance can I purchase China Train Tickets?
You can purchase China Train Tickets up to 30 days in advance (previously it was 60 days). Occasionally, China Rail will do a major timetable adjustment which usually involves adding new trains and routes, and the forward booking window might by as short as 10 days.
