12306 Introduces New Feature for Convenient Train Ticket Booking
The Chinese Ministry of Railways has recently rolled out two new features for the 12306 mobile app to make booking train tickets more convenient for users. The new functionalities, ticket demand pre-filling and train ticket start sale reminder subscription, aim to improve the user experience and address common complaints regarding ticket booking difficulties.

3 January 2024
Users can now pre-fill their ticket requirements, such as their preferred train route, departure and arrival times, seat preferences, and the number of passengers. This information can then be quickly submitted once the train tickets for their desired route go on sale. Additionally, users can subscribe to start sale reminders, which will alert them when the tickets for their preferred route become available.
"This new feature is certainly a step in the right direction," commented a user on Weibo. "It will make the ticket booking process much easier and less stressful."
However, not everyone is convinced that the new features will make a significant impact on the ticket booking process. "The idea is great, but let's not forget that we are still talking about millions of people vying for the same tickets during peak travel periods like the Chinese New Year," another user responded. "I don't think this will solve the problem entirely."
Despite the mixed reactions, many users have expressed hope that the new features will improve their chances of securing tickets for their preferred routes. "I hope this new feature will make it easier for me to get back home for the holidays," said one Weibo user. "It's so hard to get tickets during peak travel times, and I don't want to miss out on being with my family."
The Chinese Ministry of Railways has not yet commented on the new features' reception among users but remains committed to improving the overall ticket booking experience for travelers.
In conclusion, the introduction of ticket demand pre-filling and train ticket start sale reminder subscription features on the 12306 mobile app is a welcome development for users looking to secure train tickets more conveniently. Although the new features may not solve the problem entirely, they do offer a glimmer of hope for users struggling with the current ticket booking system.