logistics in getting train tickets

Question

1. I would like to go by train in China this coming April: HK-Beijing-Xian-Shanghai-HK (or is it recommended to go the other way around?).  The Travel China Guide site states tickets are mailed to a home or hotel address within China only.  I am coming from the USA.  Can the tickets be mailed to a HK address (I have a cousin who lives in HK)?  Or are they ticketless now, just go by the reservation number and passenger name?2. I see above that I can book tickets to all the cities I would like to go except Xian.  What is the best way for me to get the tickets in advance?  3. Should I book the tickets now or in March?4. What is the difference between soft and hard sleeper?  cushioned vs non-cushioned (literally hard) or cushioned vs minimal cushioning?  Thank you very much for your reply.

Tiana · Answer

Hi, I am crazy about traveling and I have had very nice visits in China. My ticket booking problems were all well handled by Travel China Guide. They are very nice. However, as I know, China's train tickets can only be bought 10-15 days ahead. Thus your plan that sending the tickets to HK may bring some difficulties. I suggest you keep in touch with Travel China Guide and ask them to book train tickets 10-15 days ahead of your departure. As you have so many destinations, you can get your tickets in the respective railway stations. Details is suggesed to consult theie operators. Do you have their email address? Well, it is travelchinaguide.com|bookingOh, the difference of soft and hard sleeper is that you will have soft sheet, quilt and cushion for soft sleeper, whose space can be also larger.

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Logistics in getting train tickets