The MTR Corporation announced on Thursday that three panda-themed trains will begin operating on the South Island Line and Airport Express starting next year.
The trains, unveiled yesterday (Dec 19), will feature stickers celebrating the twin pandas born in Hong Kong and the panda pair gifted by the central government. Additionally, the trains will showcase various images of pandas at different locations in Hong Kong and are slated to enter service in February 2025.
Starting next month, the high-speed rail service from Hong Kong's West Kowloon Station to Shenzhen and Guangzhou will also adopt a panda theme.
The rail giant plans to establish panda-themed stations, including Ocean Park Station and Admiralty Station. These stations will be adorned with panda decorations on platforms, concourses, and other areas. Admiralty Station will feature a 3D image of the pandas on the advertising display boards at the platform.
Jeny Yeung Mei-chun, Managing Director of the Hong Kong Transport Services of the MTR Corporation Limited, expressed her hope that the initiative would encourage more citizens to venture out and increase spending, thereby boosting usage of MTR services.
She highlighted that the new themed trains would enhance the travel experience for passengers heading to Ocean Park Station to visit the pandas. Additionally, with the Airport Express serving as a major gateway for tourists, Yeung is optimistic that the initiative will attract more visitors to Hong Kong and to see the pandas.
