High-speed rail travelers to get a panda-themed treat

Ayra Wang

Starting Saturday, locals and visitors will have the opportunity to travel on giant panda-themed high-speed rail trains along express routes between Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

This initiative is a collaboration between the MTR Corporation and the Hong Kong Tourism Board, featuring decorations inspired by Hong Kong's beloved panda family both inside and outside the trains.

This launch follows the earlier introduction of panda-themed trains on the South Island Line and the Airport Express, as well as decorative enhancements at the Ocean Park Station.

Annie Leung Ching-man, MTR's general manager of marketing and customer experience, said that this train will broaden the appeal of Hong Kong's tourism through the high-speed rail network.

"The beloved pandas are cherished by many," Leung said.

"As a vital link between Hong Kong and the mainland, the high-speed rail plays a key role in bringing panda-themed festivities to nearby cities, inviting travelers to embark on an immersive journey to Hong Kong."

The panda-themed train is a modified version of the MTR's eight-car Vibrant Express, adorned with stickers of six Hong Kong pandas - Ying Ying, Le Le, An An, Ke Ke and a pair of twins known as "elder sister" and "little brother."

These decorations are showcased on the train body, windows, luggage racks doors, and seats.

"The mischievous and charming pandas serve not only as high-speed rail captains but also as promotional ambassadors, appearing alongside various Hong Kong landmarks to highlight photo opportunities for passengers," Leung said.

Attractions such as the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower, Temple Street, Golden Bauhinia Square, Big Buddha in Ngong Ping and Ocean Park are featured in the decorations, along with pandas enjoying local specialties like milk tea and dim sum.

Leung added that this promotion aims to introduce attractions to cross-border passengers, encouraging them to explore Hong Kong's diverse offerings upon arrival.

The panda-themed train will be in service for 12 weeks, concluding on April 4.

The inaugural train will depart from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station at 8.23am on Saturday, running designated services to Guangzhou South, Shenzhen North and Futian stations on weekends and during the first day of the Lunar New Year.

"On weekdays, the special train will also operate randomly on short-haul services, offering passengers delightful surprises," Leung said.

Also, the West Kowloon Station has undergone a panda-themed makeover, with decorations adorning the B1 level ticketing concourse.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com