Hong Kong launches the "Panda Special": a new high-speed train to boost tourism.

Hong Kong launches the "Panda Special": a new high-speed train to boost tourism.

Saturday, October 11, 2025 officially entered into service on “Hong Kong Panda Special”. A new high-speed train themed after a giant panda. The initiative, promoted by MTR to enhance the cross-border tourist offer, it will be operational for 12 consecutive weeks. On weekends and selected dates, along the route connecting Guangzhou South, Shenzhen North, Futian and the Hong Kong West Kowloon Station.

Hong Kong inaugurates the “Panda Special,” a themed train to promote local culture

The “Panda Special” inaugurated in Hong Kong, is a convoy Dongganhao fully customized with a giant panda-inspired design. The exterior, doors, interior, windows and trunk are decorated with graphics depicting six giant pandas from Hong Kong, symbolically transformed into train drivers and cultural ambassadors.

During the journey, passengers will be ideally accompanied to discover the main symbolic places of the city, including the Clock Tower, Temple Street and the Tian Tan Buddha. The illustrations also include scenes of daily life and food, such as pandas tasting dim sum specialties, with the aim of Strengthen the link between culture, tourism and sustainable mobility.

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Train timetable and operating calendar

The first special train has left Saturday, October 11 at 8:23 AM from the West Kowloon Station with destination Guangzhou South, on the route G6582. The service will be active every Saturday and Sunday until April 4th 2026. In addition to the January 29, on the occasion of the first day of the Lunar New Year. On weekdays, the train will follow variable schedules set by MTR.

A unique experience even in the stations

Even the Hong Kong West Kowloon Station It was decorated with giant panda-themed decorations, creating an immersive environment to welcome tourists and commuters. The goal is offer an integrated experience, which combines the comfort of high-speed rail transport with a strong cultural and tourist appeal.

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Chiara Alonzo - Storyteller, copywriter, and SEO specialist, she holds a degree in Communication Sciences and Modern Philology, and a Master's degree in Political and Institutional Communication and Marketing from the Luiss School of Government. She currently serves as vice president and head of communications for the Ciao Panda Aps Association.