China Railway has announced a new discount initiative for senior travelers, extending a popular offer that provides additional savings on train tickets. Building on the success of a similar promotion earlier this year, passengers aged 60 and above will now enjoy an “extra discount on top of a discount” when purchasing tickets for specific “敬” (Jìng) marked train services. This enhanced offer is valid for travel between October 18, 2026, and December 30, 2026.
Expanded Discount Window
This new policy broadens the scope of the previous discounts, which were previously limited to off-peak weekdays. Now, seniors can avail themselves of these savings throughout the week within the specified travel period. The special discount tickets will begin to be available for purchase starting October 4th.
Eligibility and How to Access the Discount
To qualify for the discount, individuals must be 60 years of age or older and use valid identification such as a Chinese Mainland Resident ID card, Hong Kong or Macao Resident Permit, Taiwan Resident Permit, Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, Taiwan Compatriot Permit, Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card, temporary proof of identity, or a household registration booklet (Hukou book). The discount applies to tickets purchased online via the 12306 platform or offline at ticket counters, for trains departing between October 18, 2026, and December 30, 2026, that are marked with the “敬” character.
These discounted tickets will be offered at a 90% face value, effectively providing a “discount on top of a discount.” The specific “Senior Discount” will be clearly indicated on the order details page and the individual’s ticket page within the 12306 system.
Additional Benefits for Specific Groups and Loyal Passengers
The railway operator has also extended enhanced benefits to other groups. Chinese citizens aged 60 and above who hold specific identification cards, such as those for disabled military personnel, injured and disabled police officers, or disabled members of national comprehensive fire rescue teams, will receive an additional 90% discount on top of their existing preferential ticket prices.
Furthermore, senior passengers who are also members of the frequent traveler program will continue to earn triple points, in line with the current积分 (jīfēn – points) rules for regular passengers. These accumulated points can be redeemed for train tickets or used to upgrade seating class.
Previous Initiatives
This expanded program follows a previous initiative implemented in May and June of this year, which offered discounts for seniors traveling during off-peak weekdays. The continuous optimization of these惠民举措 (huì mín jǔ cuò – people-benefiting measures) by the China State Railway Group aims to make rail travel more accessible and affordable for the elderly population.
