90 days in china. train, buses, flights?

Question

I am currently in Yangshuo. Already traveled through Guangzhou and Guilin. I was refused a bus to cetera today by a travel agent because they said it would be too difficult for me to travel due to my English only skills. I've traveled over 14 Asian countries the past year just fine.I'm wondering how to purchase advance bus/train tickets within China. When I tried being spontaneous as I had been in my other overland trips, I was surprised to see completely fully booked trains 5-7 days in advance in China!Without having to spend time going to various bus stations (Yangshuo has 2) are there any ways to gather info on schedules and connections? Maps?I have a long list of places I want to see and was hoping to mostly travel overland. My current issue is going from Yangshuo to Zhangjiajie. Trains from Guilin don't exist this week. Going from Liuzhou or Changsha are options but includes 2 minivan or bus transfers from Yangshuo. Thanks to anyone who dealt with this before and can give advice.

Lilian · Answer

There is no way for you to be refused to take a bus in China. It's unreasonable. Is it because that the agent wants you to join their paid itinerary?You can book China railway tickets in advance online. The tickets are available at most 60 days before departure. This website offers train booking service and actually they are one of the bests in the area. You can contact them directly at booking@travelchinaguide.com For train schedule, you can also check on this website, all info in English for your convenience. For bus schedule, you can ask on the Q&A column of this website and get answers from other fellow travellers. Yes, there is no direct train from Yangshuo to Zhangjiajie. You can take a bus to Liuzhou first and then change to a train to get there. To take the bus, there is no need to ask permission from an agent. You can head for the bus station directly, buy a ticket and get onboard. The buses depart at 06:30 and 14:40 today; duration is about 3 hours. Safe trip~

Mr.KMOSSMAN · Answer

During the national holidays, travel is very difficult indeed.Otherwise you can buy train tickets in advance at train ticket offices[they can be very difficult to find], or at the train station. Bring your passport. Write down in Chinese the destination, date, number of people, and preferred departure time.  Check that your ticket is correct before leaving the wicket.Note that sleepers fill up very quickly.Usually buses aren't a problem - get at the bus station, same advice as for trains

90 days in China. train, buses, flights?

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