Flexible passes launched for SZ high-speed rail routes

A new ticketing system rolled out by railway authorities for four high-speed train routes originating in Shenzhen has become an instant hit with frequent travelers. The newly launched "Trip Pass" and "Period Pass" options, introduced on four popular routes, are already being hailed as game-changers for intercity commuters and business travelers.

Travelers scan their ID cards at the ticket gates of Shenzhen North Station in this undated file photo. Courtesy of Shenzhen North Station

The fare products target heavy users of the Guangzhou–Shenzhen Intercity Railway, the Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong Express Rail Link, the Xiamen–Shenzhen High-Speed Railway, and the Nanchang–Shenzhen section of the Beijing–Hong Kong High-Speed Rail — routes that connect Shenzhen with key destinations such as Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Chaoshan, and Ganzhou.

The "Trip Pass" is valid for 90 days and allows 20 rides, making it ideal for travelers making three to five trips per month. The "Period Pass" offers 60 rides within 30 days and is geared toward daily commuters and high-frequency business travelers.

Travelers take a high-speed train from Futian Station in Shenzhen to Hong Kong in this undated file photo. Yang Wenting

"Previously, my monthly high-speed rail trips between Guangzhou and Shenzhen cost nearly 5,000 yuan [US$702]. Now, with the 60-trip pass, I’m saving over 1,800 yuan!" said a Shenzhen resident surnamed Li, who works in downtown Futian District.

For Mr. Zhang, who runs a business specializing in Chaoshan specialties, the pass has proved practical. "I travel between Shenzhen and Chaoshan three to four times a month. I used to worry about securing train tickets, especially during holidays. Now, with my 30-trip pass, not only do I skip the repeated booking hassle, but each trip is also about 28 yuan cheaper," he said.

Daily commuters between Guangzhou and Shenzhen have also benefited. Mr. Wang, a programmer who lives in Shenzhen’s Longhua District and works in Guangzhou’s Tianhe District, shared, "My daily round-trip ticket used to cost 190 yuan. Over 22 working days a month, that was 4,180 yuan. Now, the 60-trip pass costs me only 2,367 yuan, saving me 1,813 yuan monthly."

Passengers disembark from a bullet train at Shenzhen North Station in an undated file photo.  Shenzhen Evening News

The passes are simple to buy and use. Passengers can select the "Trip Pass/Period Pass" option on the 12306 app homepage, choose their route and preferred product, and place the order. To board, they only need to swipe their ID card — no paper ticket is required.

Purchasers can receive a full refund if the pass is not activated within 30 days of purchase. Once the first ride is taken, the validity period begins.

Railway authorities say they will continue to optimize coverage of the new products based on passenger demand, with the aim of making convenient, cost-effective high-speed rail travel accessible to more people.