Guiyang launches direct tourist train to Vientiane, Laos

Passengers are ready to board the tourist train. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

The Y477 "Colorful Guizhou" train began its maiden trip from Guiyang in Southwest China's Guizhou province to Vientiane in Laos on May 8, welcoming over 200 tourists for an eight-day adventure.

This tourist train follows the "special train + high-speed train + bus" travel model, thus it offers a unique travel experience.

Starting from Guiyang, the train uses the "Panda Express" as its operating train. It traveled west along the Shanghai-Kunming Railway, and reached Xishuangbanna at 6:25 am on May 9, where passengers then transferred to a high-speed train along the China-Laos Railway bound for Vientiane, Van Ban, Luang Prabang, and other destinations.

While in Laos, buses have been organized to take passengers to local attractions such as Kuang Si Waterfall, Patuxai, Wat Xieng Thong, and Pha That Luang.

The "Panda Express" is a tourist train that integrates dining, accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment facilities. It features cultural elements from Guizhou, Sichuan, and Chongqing, and offers amenities like showers, phone chargers, karaoke, and bars.

It also has experienced tour guides and doctors to provide services such as leisure vacations, gourmet tours, conferences, training, and wedding celebrations.

Officials from the Guizhou Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism introduced that initially, the tourist train is planned to operate once a month, with additional frequencies based on passenger demand in the future.

They also mentioned that the department is considering launching "Colorful Guizhou" special train routes tailored for Southeast Asian tourists. These trips will offer visitors from abroad a full view of Guizhou's picturesque landscapes, diverse ethnic cultures, and profound charm.