'Silver-haired' trains

Designed for comfort, convenience and culture, these tourism trains cater specifically to elderly travelers. Known for their slower pace and curated routes, they are part of a growing trend among China's aging population.

The "silver-haired" tourism trains, linking multiple scenic sites along the route, are usually regular speed trains. They have gained tremendous popularity among seniors, thanks to features such as a relaxed travel pace, multiple scenic stops, safety, convenience and affordability.

Each train journey typically spans several days and includes stops at major tourist destinations. For example, the Beijing to Xinjiang route passes through Ningxia Hui autonomous region and Gansu province, connecting scenic spots such as Zhongwei, Zhangye, Jiayuguan and Turpan. The trains stop at those railway stations along the route.

Upon arrival at each station, buses are ready to take passengers directly to the tourist sites. Meals are arranged at local restaurants, and at night, travelers return to their assigned sleeping berths onboard — making the train both a mode of transportation and a mobile "home base". Travelers can also choose to stay in hotels, instead of on the train, in order to enjoy the local culture and atmosphere accordingly.

Prices vary depending on the route and amenities, ranging from less than 1,000 yuan ($136.75) to more than 70,000 yuan per person. Different services are provided: premium — which usually costs more and provides a more luxurious and comfortable experience; and economy — which is designed for customers on a tighter budget. All types of trains, regardless of service chosen, are remodeled for elderly accessibility.

As of now, 18 regional railway companies across the country have launched 75 tourist train routes, covering nearly all parts of China's railway network and reaching most major tourist cities nationwide.

Compared to planes or buses, many elderly passengers say that trains offer a better fit for their slow-paced lifestyle and provide greater comfort. They also feel that these trains now fully meet their travel needs.

Take 82-year-old Xiong Qiwen, for example. He joined a six-day journey from Jiangxi province to Fujian province last month.

"The itinerary was well-paced. I had enough time at each stop to soak in the scenery and local culture," he said. His route included major popular tourist sites across Fujian, such as Fuzhou's Three Lanes and Seven Alleys and the UNESCO-listed Wuyi Mountain.

Granny He from Beijing is a loyal customer of the service.

In March, 63-year-old Granny He took the tourism train traveling from Beijing to the provinces of Jiangxi, Hunan, and Guangdong province over 12 days.

"This was my third time on a "silver-haired" train," she said. "We get off the train for one or two nights during the trip and stay at local hotels. I only need to pack basic toiletries and a few clothes since I can leave my heavy luggage on the train. This saves us elderly travelers a lot of effort ... I don't have to carry my heavy luggage everywhere, and I feel safe knowing medical staff are on board."