I have ny next segment of rail journey – not much – just over 1000 kms… :))
I tried to buy my ticket few days ahead. At the station there is usually a crowd waiting in front of the ticket office. Do not expect a special English-speaking desk… So It is better to ask in your hostel – let’s them write for you on the piece of paper in Chinese where and when you want to travel…
I did. The clerk in the window was looking at the paper and he said: tickets for today and tomorrow only! I found somobody speaking some English to explain, but the answer was the same… There should be a special window at the big stations for advance, 10-days purchase – but who knows where?
In the big towns there are little railways booking offices in the downtowns. Ask at the hostel – your chance will be better there. That’s what I did. They charge 5 yuan more per ticket but they shold know few words of English and they are likely to find you other connection in case if there is no space on the train of your choice. I have my ticket to Xiamen! Let’s go!
