【2026 Silk Road Express】Along the Yunnan–Vietnam Railway

Silk Road Express

Along the Yunnan–Vietnam Railway

Spanning Kunming, Xishuangbanna and Hekou, this cross-border voyage traces the historic Yunnan–Vietnam Railway. Highlights include pristine rainforest treks, a panoramic cable car ascent to Fansipan, and heritage rail moments with authentic Vietnamese coffee, paired with Michelin-caliber onboard dining.

Daily Itinerary

Manual

Kunming
Xishuangbanna
Hekou
Kunming

Day 1

Kunming → Xishuangbanna
- - Afternoon
    Arrive at the railway station at least 40 minutes prior to departure, then board the Silk Road Express with valid identification to commence your bespoke cross-border rail journey.
  - Early Evening
    Savor an exquisite welcome dinner crafted to Michelin-level culinary standards, paired with a curated assortment of fine wines and premium beverages, as rolling countryside vistas unfold beyond your window.
  - Evening
    Join our signature cocktail reception in the elegant lounge bar to enjoy handcrafted signature drinks. Alternatively, retreat to the panoramic observation car for a classic film screening, immersed in the timeless romance of luxury overnight rail travel.
- Dinner
Day 2

Xishuangbanna → Hekou
- - Morning
    After a leisurely breakfast on board, take a scenic 1-hour transfer into Xishuangbanna's untouched tropical rainforest. Accompanied by an expert resident naturalist, follow shaded trails beneath ancient tree canopies to discover iconic rainforest flora including giant buttress roots, twisting lianas and primeval tree ferns, surrounded by the natural symphony of native wildlife.
  - Midday
    Indulge in a curated light lunch crafted with fresh local seasonal ingredients, served within the heart of the rainforest.
  - Afternoon
    Continue your immersive nature experience with a gentle stream walk, deepening your connection to one of China's most biodiverse landscapes in a serene, uncrowded setting, before returning to the train bound for Hekou.
  - Evening
    Dine on a refined seasonal menu aboard the train as you glide through southern Yunnan's after-dark landscapes.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 3

Hekou → Kunming
- - Morning
    Following breakfast on board, cross the border at Hekou and venture into northern Vietnam. Ride one of the world's longest cable cars to the summit of Fansipan, taking in sweeping panoramic views of layered mountain ranges, ancient forests and seasonal sea of clouds. In winter, the landscape is further adorned by blooming cherry blossoms and crisp alpine air.
  - Midday
    Enjoy a curated buffet lunch at the scenic area, featuring a blend of local Yunnan and Vietnamese flavors.
  - Afternoon
    Unwind beside the historic Yunnan–Vietnam Railway Bridge with a cup of authentic Vietnamese coffee. Watch as a vintage train traverses the century-old rail crossing, offering an evocative glimpse into the rich heritage and enduring charm of this iconic cross-border route.
  - Evening
    Rejoin the Silk Road Express and savor a refined dinner service as the train travels onward toward Kunming.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 4

Arrival in Kunming | Journey Concludes
- - Morning
    Enjoy a leisurely, chef-prepared breakfast aboard the train while taking in the evolving landscapes of central Yunnan. Upon arrival in Kunming, disembark the train, bringing your cross-border Yunnan–Vietnam rail journey to a close. Guests may arrange their own onward travel.
- Breakfast