Passengers board the inaugural Wendao Kongtong tourism train at Xi'an Railway Station on July 18. [Photo/Kongtong government website]

A launch ceremony for the Wendao Kongtong (Asking the Way at Kongtong) tourism train was successfully held in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, on July 17, marking the upcoming debut of a new tourism corridor linking Shaanxi and Gansu provinces.

On July 18, the inaugural K4667 tourism train slowly pulled out of Xi'an Railway Station, heading west toward Pingliang, a summer resort with an average annual temperature of 21℃.

Kongtong martial arts are showcased aboard the tourism train from Xi'an to Pingliang on July 18. [Photo/Kongtong government website]

The inaugural service featured specially designed themed carriages dedicated to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) wellness and cultural performances. Shortly after departure, the performance carriage erupted in applause. Passengers enjoyed powerful demonstrations of Kongtong martial arts, the graceful classical dance Silk Road Flying Apsaras, and live presentations of traditional paper-cutting and dough figurine making.

Meanwhile, the TCM wellness carriage offered hands-on health experiences. Professional practitioners provided massages and tuina therapy, while refreshing cups of sour plum herbal drink proved popular with travelers.

Passengers sample Pingliang's local delicacies on the tourism train from Xi'an to Pingliang on July 18. [Photo/Kongtong government website]

The onboard food exhibition was equally lively. As visitors sampled local delicacies, they also gained a deeper appreciation of Pingliang's rich agricultural heritage and the distinctive charm of eastern Gansu.

The five-hour journey connects far more than two cities. It offers travelers an immersive experience that blends breathtaking scenery, authentic cuisine, traditional culture and wellness.

Tickets for the July 20-26 services are now on sale via the Railway 12306 app.