If you’re planning to travel in and around Beijing, Qinghe Railway Station in Beijing (清河站) is a key starting point. This modern transportation hub connects you to several exciting destinations, including the famous Badaling Great Wall, Zhangjiakou (the Winter Olympics city), Datong, Hohhot, and Baotou.
Qinghe Railway Station is easy to navigate, with convenient high-speed trains to these locations. Plus, it’s directly connected to Beijing Subway Line 13, making transfers to other parts of the city a breeze.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting to the station, buying tickets, and traveling to these popular destinations. Let’s dive right in!
1. How to Get to Qinghe Railway Station
First, let’s talk about how to get to Qinghe Railway Station. There are several options, depending on where you’re staying in Beijing.
By Subway
The easiest way to reach Qinghe Railway Station is by subway. Beijing Subway Line 13 connects directly to the station, so you don’t have to worry about traffic or complicated directions.
Simply hop on Line 13, and you’ll reach Qinghe Station in about 20 minutes from the Xizhimen Subway Station of LIne 2 and Line 4. It’s quick, affordable, and hassle-free. Subway Line 13 is actually a light rail that runs above ground, offering city views along the way.
From the city centre, you take subway line 2 and get off at Xizhimen Subway Station, then interchange for Subway Line 13 going to the station of Qinghe Railway Station.
After exiting the Qinghe Railway Station (清河站) of Subway Line 13, follow the guiding signs to the security screening area, and then proceed to the entrance to Qinghe Railway Station.
By Taxi
If you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more direct route, a taxi is a good option. Depending on traffic, it will take around 30 to 40 minutes to reach the station from central Beijing. Make sure to have your destination written in Chinese (清河站) to avoid any confusion with the driver.
By Bus
Although buses are available, they are usually slower and less convenient for foreign travelers. If you’re unfamiliar with the bus system, it might be easier to stick with the subway or a taxi.
2. Inside Qinghe Railway Station: What to Expect
Qinghe Railway Station is big and modern, with everything you need to make your trip smooth and comfortable. Here’s a quick overview of the station’s layout and facilities.
Ticket Purchase Options
There are multiple ways to buy your train tickets at Qinghe Railway Station:
- Online Booking: The easiest way to book tickets is online. You can use the official 12306.cn website or third-party agencies to buy tickets in advance.
- Ticket Counters: If you prefer buying tickets in person, visit the ticket counters in the underground ticketing center in the main hall. Make sure to bring your passport since it’s required for foreign travelers.
- Self-Service Machines: There are also self-service machines where you can buy tickets if you’re comfortable reading in Mandarin.
Security Check and Waiting Room
Just like at any major train station in China, you’ll need to go through a security check. Your bags will go through an X-ray machine, and you’ll need to pass through a metal detector.
Then you enter the main hall with customer service desks, and information kiosks. The waiting area has ample seating for passengers, with clear signage in both Chinese and English to guide travelers.
Platforms and Train Boarding
Follow the sign for your gate, go down to the platform. The high-speed trains to destinations like Badaling, Zhangjiakou, Datong, Hohhot, and Baotou depart from these platforms. The station is well-organized, so you won’t have trouble finding your platform.
Amenities
The station has plenty of shops and restaurants where you can grab a quick snack or drink.
Restrooms are also available, and the station offers free Wi-Fi (though you might need a Chinese phone number to log in). You’ll also find ATMs and currency exchange services if needed.
3. How to Take a High-Speed Train from Qinghe Station
Qinghe Railway Station offers quick and easy access to some of China’s most popular tourist destinations. Here’s a rundown of the destinations you can reach by high-speed train from Qinghe Railway Station.
1) Going to Badaling Great Wall
The Badaling section of the Great Wall is the most popular and accessible part of the Wall. From Qinghe Railway Station, taking a high-speed train to Badaling is simple.
For more options going to Badaling Great Wall, please check out: How to Get to Badaling Great Wall.
- Train Type: High-speed G-trains.
- Travel Time: The trip takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Cost: Tickets usually range from ¥20 to ¥50
- Arrival: The train takes you directly to Badaling Great Wall Railway Station, just a short distance to the Great Wall entrance.
High-Speed Train Timetable from Beijing Qinghe Station to Badaling Great Wall Station
| Train Number | Departure Station | Arrival Station | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D1023 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 06:38 | 07:00 | 0.37 hours |
| D6703 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 08:33 | 09:05 | 0.53 hours |
| D1103 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 08:19 | 08:41 | 0.37 hours |
| D1107 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 09:52 | 10:14 | 0.37 hours |
| D1091 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 10:25 | 10:47 | 0.37 hours |
| D6705 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 10:58 | 11:20 | 0.37 hours |
| D1009 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 12:06 | 12:28 | 0.37 hours |
| D6725 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 12:44 | 13:06 | 0.37 hours |
| D1113 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 14:19 | 14:41 | 0.37 hours |
| D1131 | Qinghe Station | Badaling Great Wall | 14:57 | 15:19 | 0.37 hours |
These train options provide detailed information for travel from Qinghe Station to Badaling Great Wall Railway Station.
High-Speed Train Timetable from Badaling Great Wall Station to Qinghe Railway Station
| Train Number | Departure Station | Arrival Station | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D1024 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 09:02 | 09:21 | 25 min |
| D1002 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 09:28 | 09:48 | 25 min |
| D6704 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 10:12 | 10:32 | 22 min |
| D1004 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 10:31 | 10:51 | 22 min |
| D1072 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 12:38 | 12:58 | 33 min |
| D6720 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 13:24 | 13:44 | 27 min |
| G2526 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 14:27 | 14:46 | 21 min |
| G7834 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 14:44 | 15:04 | 22 min |
| D6706 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 15:43 | 16:03 | 26 min |
| G9396 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 17:07 | 17:26 | 21 min |
| D6708 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 17:27 | 17:47 | 22 min |
| G7836 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 18:15 | 18:35 | 22 min |
| D1018 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 18:47 | 19:07 | 23 min |
| G2488 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 19:22 | 19:42 | 23 min |
| D6710 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 19:42 | 20:02 | 22 min |
| D1028 | Badaling Great Wall | Qinghe | 20:43 | 21:03 | 22 min |
This table provides the key information for trains from Badaling Great Wall Station to Qinghe Station, including the different travel durations and ticket prices for second and first classes, as well as business class where available.
2) Going to Zhangjiakou (Winter Olympic City)
Zhangjiakou was one of the host cities for the 2022 Winter Olympics. It’s now a popular destination for winter sports and adventure tourism.
- Train Type: High-speed trains.
- Travel Time: The journey lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Cost: Tickets cost about ¥80 to ¥120 (11 to 17 USD).
- Arrival: You’ll arrive at Zhangjiakou Railway Station, which is close to Olympic venues and local attractions.
3) Going to Datong (Yungang Grottoes)
Datong is home to the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient Buddhist statues. It’s a must-see for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts.
- Train Type: High-speed G-trains.
- Travel Time: The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Cost: Tickets range from ¥80 to ¥130
- Arrival: You’ll arrive at Datong Railway Station, where you can easily take a taxi or bus to the Yungang Grottoes.
4) Going to Hohhot (Inner Mongolia)
If you’re looking to explore the grasslands and experience Inner Mongolian culture, Hohhot is the place to go. It’s the capital of Inner Mongolia and offers a fascinating blend of traditional and modern attractions.
- Train Type: High-speed rail.
- Travel Time: The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours.
- Cost: Tickets usually range from ¥150 to ¥250
- Arrival: You’ll arrive at Hohhot Railway Station, from which you can access local buses and taxis to explore the city.
5) Going to Baotou (Inner Mongolia)
Baotou is another interesting city in Inner Mongolia, known for its proximity to the Kubuqi Desert.
- Train Type: High-speed trains.
- Travel Time: The trip takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
- Cost: Expect to pay ¥100 to ¥160
- Arrival: You’ll arrive at Baotou Railway Station, where you can take local transportation to the city center or nearby attractions.
6. Local Tips for Travelers
Here are a few tips to make your trip to Qinghe Railway Station easier and more enjoyable.
- Language: While many people in Beijing can understand basic English, it’s still helpful to know a few Mandarin phrases. For example, “Where is the ticket counter?” (票务在哪儿?).
- Cash: It’s always good to have some Chinese yuan (CNY) on hand, as not all vendors accept credit cards.
- Comfortable Shoes: Qinghe Railway Station is large, so wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Travel During Off-Peak Hours: The station can get crowded, especially during holidays. If you want to avoid the rush, travel during off-peak hours.
- Luggage: If you have heavy luggage, there are elevators available to help you navigate the station. Avoid peak times for a more comfortable experience.
FAQs about Qinghe Railway Station
1. What makes Qinghe Railway Station special?
Qinghe Station is a modern hub built in December 2019. It serves the Beijing–Zhangjiakou and Beijing–Baotou high‑speed lines and connects seamlessly with subway lines 13 and Changping Line. It handles over 16 million passengers annually.
2. How often do trains run to Badaling Great Wall Station?
Around 15–22 high-speed trains depart daily from Qinghe Railway Station to Badaling Great Wall Station—most in the morning to early evening. Travel takes 19–21 minutes per trip.
3. How do I buy the train tickets?
Book up to 15 days in advance via the official 12306 site or Trip.com, which supports English interface.
4. Where do I board the train at Qinghe Railway Station?
Use subway Line 13 or Changping Line to Qinghe Station. The station integrates rail and subway entry halls. Security checks are unified—so once you enter, you don’t repeat them when transferring. It’s very convenient.
6. What’s the best time to catch the train?
Trains run roughly between 06:30 and 20:50. On busy days, gates close about 12 minutes before departure. Arriving 30 minutes early helps ensure a smooth check‑in experience.
7. Can I take public transit there at night?
High-speed trains last depart Qinghe Railway Starion around 20:50–20:55. Note that Badaling Great Wall closes at night, so you’ll miss Wall access if you arrive too late. Stick to daytime hours for your visit.
8. What are the alternatives if I miss the bullet train?
You can take the S2 suburban train to Badaling Railway Station (slower, ~1 hour), or bus 877 from Deshengmen (~1.5 hours). These cost less but require walking or shuttle transfers to reach the Wall entrance.
Qinghe Railway Station is a modern and efficient hub that connects travelers to some of the most exciting destinations in northern China. Whether you’re heading to the Badaling Great Wall, the Winter Olympic city of Zhangjiakou, the ancient Yungang Grottoes in Datong, or exploring the grasslands of Inner Mongolia (Hohhot and Baotou), this station has you covered. With easy access to Beijing Subway Line 13, getting around Beijing is just as simple.
We hope this guide helps you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip from Qinghe Railway Station. Safe travels, and enjoy your adventure in China.
📚 Further Reading & Travel Resources
Planning a trip to Beijing? You’re in the right place. Our Beijing Travel Guide is packed with practical tips to help you explore the city with ease. From how to ride the subway to what not to do at temples, we’ve got you covered.
So before you dive into Beijing’s buzzing markets and peaceful parks, take a moment to browse our guide. You’ll travel smarter, spend better, and enjoy more. We’re here to help you feel at home—wherever your journey takes you in China’s capital.
