Xinhua News Agency, People’s Daily, CCTV, Wall Street Journal, New York Times
September 6, 2024
The Silk Road Silver Hair tourist train, a novel initiative by the China Railway Xi’an Bureau Group Co., Ltd., has officially rolled out, marking another milestone in the integration of railway services and cultural tourism development in Shaanxi Province.
A New Chapter in Cultural Tourism
At approximately 8 a.m. on September 6, the Y525 tourist train departed from Xi’an Station, carrying over 700 elderly tourists towards Tongchuan Yaozhou. This special train, catering to the elderly, is part of the bureau’s ongoing efforts to diversify travel options and enhance the travel experience for senior citizens.
Enhanced Travel Experience for the Elderly
Understanding the unique needs of the elderly passengers, the China Railway Xi’an Bureau Group Co., Ltd. has taken several measures to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. A dedicated green channel was set up for smooth check-in, with staff members guiding the elderly through ticket checks and providing a special waiting area. Onboard, the staff organized interactive programs, and a doctor was available throughout the journey for accompanying care. Additionally, the train was equipped with entertainment facilities such as chess, card games, and karaoke, allowing the elderly passengers to fully enjoy their trip.
A Festive Welcome in Yaozhou
Upon arrival in Tongchuan Yaozhou, the tourists were treated to a variety of performances, including choirs, square dances, aerobic exercises, fashion shows, Tai Chi, folk dances, and dragon and lion dances, at the square in front of the Sun Simiao Memorial Hall. The performances provided a visual and auditory feast for the audience.
A Focus on Cultural Tourism Development
This year, the China Railway Xi’an Bureau Group Co., Ltd. has been deeply involved in the tourism market, focusing on building the Silk Road tourism brand. The company has launched 94 tourist trains with various themes such as ice and snow, temple fairs, flower appreciation, red tourism, cooling, and study tours, heading in different directions including Northeast China, Xinjiang, Ejin, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the bureau plans to continue strengthening cooperation with local cultural and tourism departments, actively launching more tourist trains, and introducing more unique railway+culture tourism products. This collaborative effort aims to jointly promote the high-quality development of the tourism economy.
The Significance of the Railway+Tourism Model
The Silk Road Silver Hair tourist train is not just a travel service; it represents a strategic move to leverage the railway network for cultural and tourism development. By focusing on the elderly, a growing demographic with increasing disposable income and leisure time, the railway authority is tapping into a new market segment that can drive economic growth and enhance the overall tourism experience in the region.
Conclusion
The launch of the Silk Road Silver Hair tourist train is a testament to the evolving landscape of China’s cultural tourism industry. By integrating railway services with cultural tourism, the China Railway Xi’an Bureau Group Co., Ltd. is setting a precedent for future developments in the sector, ensuring that travel is not just about reaching a destination but also about experiencing the journey itself.
This initiative is a significant step forward in the broader context of China’s tourism industry, highlighting the potential for innovative partnerships and the importance of catering to diverse traveler needs.
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