Beijing North Railway Station

Beijing North Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Beijing North Railway Station (北京北站) is a pivotal transportation hub in the heart of Beijing’s Xicheng District, seamlessly connecting the city’s urban core with northern and northwestern China. With a rich legacy dating back to its origins as Xizhimen Station in 1906, the station has evolved into a modern gateway for millions of travelers each year. Whether you’re starting a journey to the iconic Badaling Great Wall, exploring urban attractions like the Beijing Zoo and Planetarium, or transiting to other major Chinese cities, Beijing North Railway Station offers advanced facilities, comprehensive accessibility, and unmatched convenience.

This guide covers everything you need to know—from visiting hours and ticketing procedures to travel tips, nearby attractions, and practical visitor advice—ensuring your experience at Beijing North Railway Station is smooth and enjoyable.

Railway parking yard at Xizhimen with multiple tracks in old Beijing

Railway parking yard at Xizhimen with multiple train tracks in old Beijing

Beijing Xizhimen Railway Station on Jingzhang Railway with sign and guards in front

Railway track fence gate on Jingzhang Railway at Xizhimen gate in old Beijing

Historical Background and Modernization
Visitor Information
Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary of Key Points
References and External Links

Historical Background and Modernization

Origins and Evolution:
Beijing North Railway Station was originally completed in August 1906 as Xizhimen Station, designed by pioneering engineer Jeme Tien Yow (Zhan Tianyou). As the first trunk railway constructed by Chinese engineers—the Beijing-Zhangjiakou Railway—it marked a milestone in the nation’s industrial modernization. The station’s Western classical architectural influence was notable in early 20th-century China.

Transformation and Expansion:
Following its 1988 renaming to Beijing North Railway Station, the site underwent major modernization between 2005 and 2009. The renovation included a six-story building above ground and two underground levels, expanded platforms, advanced passenger amenities, and seamless integration with Beijing Subway Lines 2, 4, and 13. Today, the station stands as a symbol of Beijing’s rapid urban growth and the enduring importance of railway connectivity in China.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Station Operating Hours:
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Some train services and facilities operate 24 hours to accommodate varying schedules.
Advance arrival (at least 30–45 minutes before departure) is recommended for security checks and ticket processing.

Tickets and Purchasing Procedures

Where to Buy:
- Ticket Counters: Staffed counters (open 6:00 AM–9:00 PM) provide service in Chinese and English.
- Self-Service Machines: Multilingual machines accept Chinese ID cards and foreign passports.
- Online Booking: Use China Railway 12306 or trusted platforms for advance reservations.
Types of Tickets:
- High-speed, intercity, and suburban (S2/S5) lines.
- Electronic tickets support passport check-in for international travelers.
Advance Booking:
- Up to 15 days ahead, strongly advised during holidays and peak seasons.

Station Layout and Accessibility

Main Structure:
- Ground level: Main entrance, ticketing, waiting lounges, and platform access.
- Basement levels: Subway connections and S5 line entrance (adjacent to McDonald’s).
- Upper floors: VIP lounges, retail, and dining.
Facilities:
- Accessible restrooms, elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and baby care rooms.
- Luggage storage, porter service, secure left luggage counters.
- Digital signage and bilingual (Chinese/English) announcements.
- Food and retail options include fast food, Chinese eateries, coffee shops, bookstores, and electronics.
Transport Links:
- Direct, barrier-free access to Subway Lines 2, 4, and 13.
- Bus terminals and clearly marked taxi stands.

Travel Tips

Plan Ahead:
Book tickets early, especially for S2/S5 lines to Badaling Great Wall or during holidays.
Arrive Early:
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure for security and boarding.
Use Dedicated Entrances:
For the S5 line, use the separate entrance near McDonald’s to bypass the main security queue.
Avoid Peak Hours:
Travel outside 7:30–9:30 AM and 5–7 PM on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
Prepare for Security:
All passengers must pass through airport-style security checks.

Nearby Attractions

Badaling Great Wall:
Reachable by S2/S5 suburban lines and high-speed trains. One of the most popular and well-preserved sections of the Great Wall.
Beijing Zoo & Aquarium:
Just one stop away on Line 4, featuring giant pandas, marine life, and family-friendly activities.
(visitbeijing.com.cn)
Beijing Planetarium:
A short walk from the zoo, offering interactive exhibits and a digital dome theater.
Xizhimen Commercial District:
Adjacent to the station, with shopping centers (e.g., CapitaMall Xizhimen), dining, and entertainment.
Beijing Exhibition Center:
Soviet-era architecture, home to trade fairs, exhibitions, and a Russian restaurant.
Deshengmen and Ancient City Wall:
Historic city gate and starting point for Badaling-bound buses.
Shichahai and Hutong Districts:
Explore scenic lakes, old hutongs, bars, and rickshaw tours via Line 2.
(chinadiscovery.com)
Bell and Drum Towers:
Iconic landmarks offering panoramic city views, accessible by subway.
Proximity to City Center:
Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City are about 8 km (5 miles) away, easily reached by subway or taxi.
(chinahighlights.com)

Practical Visitor Tips

Navigation:
Use Baidu Maps or Apple Maps for real-time directions; Google Maps is less reliable in China.
Luggage:
Storage services are available for a fee.
Payment:
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are common; cash is also accepted. International cards may not be widely accepted.
Wi-Fi & Communication:
Free Wi-Fi is available; local SIM cards offer reliable internet. Translation apps are helpful for non-Chinese speakers.
Safety:
Always use official taxis and request receipts. Security is tight; follow staff instructions during checks.
Weather:
Visit in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for comfortable weather and less pollution.
Crowds:
Avoid major Chinese holidays for a quieter experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours of Beijing North Railway Station?
A: The station typically operates from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM, with some services available 24 hours.

Q: How do I buy train tickets?
A: Purchase tickets online via China Railway 12306, at station counters, or self-service machines. Foreign travelers need a passport for ticketing and boarding.

Q: Is the station accessible for passengers with disabilities?
A: Yes. Facilities include ramps, elevators, tactile paving, accessible restrooms, and staff assistance.

Q: How do I reach the Great Wall from Beijing North?
A: Take the S2 or S5 suburban lines from the station for direct access to the Badaling section.

Q: Are there luggage services?
A: Secure luggage storage and porter services are available for a fee.

Q: What are some nearby attractions?
A: Beijing Zoo, Planetarium, Xizhimen Commercial District, Deshengmen city gate, and Shichahai Hutong are all within easy reach.