On Track to Discovery: Vietnam-Yunnan Rail Tourism Booms

Illustrative Image (Photo: VNA)

High-Speed Travel, High-Growth Tourism

Vietnamese tourists are embracing a new way to explore China—by train. In a major shift in cross-border travel trends, the first half of this year saw 27,200 group tourists from Vietnam arriving in China’s Yunnan province via Hekou, a record-breaking figure that marks a 74.68% increase year-on-year. This remarkable growth signals a rising preference for high-speed rail travel, combining comfort, efficiency, and cultural exploration.

Hekou: A Gateway Reimagined

Strategically positioned at the China-Vietnam border, Hekou has become the heart of this tourism transformation. The Hekou North Station now serves as a bustling hub for cross-border group travel, thanks to recent enhancements that streamline the travel experience. From improved inspection facilities to bilingual signage and optimised scheduling, the station reflects China’s broader investment in modernising its rail infrastructure to meet growing tourist demand.

Rails Connecting Cultures

Yunnan has taken a proactive role in strengthening its connectivity with Southeast Asia through major rail developments. The Yumeng, Menghe, and Nimeng railway lines are now playing a vital role in shortening travel times and enhancing accessibility. These routes do more than just move people—they connect economies and cultures.

As trains roll through scenic landscapes and across borders, they are also carrying shared stories, culinary exchanges, and opportunities for deeper cultural understanding. Cross-border rail tourism is proving to be more than a travel trend; it is becoming a bridge of regional cooperation.

Tourism and Trade on the Fast Track

With group rail tourism flourishing, the benefits are being felt beyond tourism. The strong growth supports local economies, border towns, and the service industry, while reinforcing the close diplomatic and trade relationship between Vietnam and China. Local authorities, rail operators, and border services are working in coordination to ensure smooth, safe, and enjoyable travel experiences for all passengers.

As tourism rebounds and infrastructure continues to improve, Vietnam-Yunnan rail travel is poised to become a leading model of sustainable, accessible, and enriching cross-border tourism in the region.

Travel Resources and Contacts

China Railway Official Website: www.12306.cn
Yunnan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism: https://www.visityunnanchina.com/
Vietnam National Administration of Tourism: https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/en

For more information about Mekong tourism and regional updates, visit:
Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office
Website: www.mekongtourism.org
Email: info@mekongtourism-mtco.org

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