HK, Xi'an strengthen connection with new high-speed rail link

Ayra Wang

Travelers from Hong Kong can now conveniently reach Xi'an via a new high-speed rail link, which officially began operations yesterday.

This express route connects West Kowloon to the north of Xi'an, enhancing travel options for residents and visitors alike.

In addition, the Hong Kong section of the high-speed rail network has expanded to include 15 new destinations, such as Meizhou West in northeastern Guangdong and Xintang Station in Guangzhou.

Jeny Yeung Mei-chun, managing director of MTR Corporation's Hong Kong transport services, said the number of mainland destinations connected to the SAR has surged to 93, more than doubling from the 44 destinations available at the rail's launch in 2018.

Yeung said the new route to northern Xi'an represents the first direct high-speed rail connection between Hong Kong and Shaanxi province.This development signifies a strengthened link between the SAR and the northwest region of mainland China.

"Xi'an is not only an ancient capital of 13 dynasties but also a vital center for modern scientific and industrial development in western China," Yeung said.She noted the rich tourism resources along the route, including historical sites like Luoyang and the Longmen Grottoes in Henan province, as well as Mount Hua in Shaanxi.

Yeung also announced that the frequency of high-speed rail services has been enhanced, with up to 108 pairs of trains operating daily.

The inaugural train to Xi'an departed from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station at 9.07am yesterday, completing the journey in nearly 11 hours while making stops at 15 intermediate stations.

Passengers expressed excitement about the trip, with one traveler sharing her enthusiasm for the city's historical sites and cultural relics. She said she expected the train journey would be more comfortable than flying and had come prepared with a neck pillow and snacks.

Among the passengers was a tour group of 40 people, led by guide Fok, who reported a strong demand for the trip, with quotas filled within two days of the launch.

"High-speed rail is competitive, offering cheaper tickets compared to flights and greater punctuality," Fok said.

Tourism sector lawmaker Perry Yiu Pak-leung the new route would alleviate the shortage of direct flights between the SAR and Xi'an.

He also said that the benefits of the newly added destination - Xintang, located in the core district of the eastern Guangzhou development zone - will further optimize connections between Hong Kong and Guangzhou.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com