Having taken countless high-speed and regular trains, I always thought trains were just a means of transportation. I never imagined a train itself could be the highlight of a trip.
This time, I personally experienced the Starlight · Yanzhao Beijing-Chengde tourism special train, which completely changed my perception! It’s like a moving intangible cultural heritage museum and a mobile scenic lounge. Traveling directly from Beijing to Chengde, it sets a new standard for weekend trips in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, perfect for couples, families with children, and seniors alike.
✨Key highlights of the train
✅ Seven full carriages with traditional Chinese style themes, featuring interior designs inspired by Yanzhao intangible cultural heritage elements like cloisonné and filigree enamel
✅ Carriages with extra-large floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic skylights, offering uninterrupted views of valleys and landscapes along the way
✅ Exquisitely painted train exterior with classic Chinese style, perfect for capturing atmospheric photos
✅ The journey is never dull, with onboard performances and intangible cultural heritage craft experiences all arranged in one place
✅ Comfortable and spacious seats equipped with charging ports and senior-friendly facilities for a pleasant trip
📅 Two complete travel plans
① Same-day round-trip express (best for those with tight schedules)
Take the early special train from Beijing, enjoy the scenery along the way, participate in onboard intangible cultural heritage activities, and watch live performances. After a brief stop in Chengde, take the evening return train back to Beijing for an easy one-day train sightseeing trip.
② Two days and one night deep tour of Chengde [highly recommended]
Day 1: Depart from Beijing Station on the Starlight · Yanzhao train, fully immerse yourself in the train journey experience, arrive in Chengde, and check in. Spend the evening exploring the city.
Day 2: Visit famous attractions like the Mountain Resort during the day, then take the special train back to Beijing in the afternoon, unlocking both train sightseeing and Chengde’s natural beauty in one trip.
🚄 Essential travel info
Departure times
Outbound: Beijing Station departs at 8:35 AM → arrives in Chengde at 3:08 PM
Return: Chengde departs at 3:48 PM → arrives at Beijing Fengtai at 8:40 PM
Ticket prices and purchase channels
Tickets are available in two categories: standard soft seats for sightseeing and four-person deluxe private cabins
Tickets can be purchased via 12306 or the official Starlight train mini program
⚠️ Private cabins are in high demand on weekends and holidays, so plan ahead and book early!
Brief introduction to the 7 themed carriages
▫️ Panoramic skylight sightseeing carriage: the most popular carriage on the train, with an extra-large scenic skylight and excellent views
▫️ Blue and orange booth sightseeing carriage: ideal for friends or couples to relax and take photos together
▫️ Intangible cultural heritage carriage: showcases traditional Yanzhao handicrafts with a strong cultural atmosphere
▫️ Multifunctional stage carriage: main venue for onboard folk art performances
▫️ Themed dining carriage: enjoy exclusive specialty meals on the train
▫️ VIP private cabin: highly private, perfect for family travel
Carriages feature 360° rotating leather seats, USB charging ports, enamel-painted bathrooms in some areas, and senior-friendly facilities like non-slip floors and handrails.
🎭 Exclusive surprises throughout the journey
🔹 Intangible cultural heritage craft experiences
The carriage has a craft area where you can try dough figurines and shadow puppetry, which kids especially love.
🔹 Onboard cultural performances
During the trip, enjoy occasional bamboo flute music, crosstalk, clapper talks, small stand-up comedy, and traditional opera performances, filling the journey with laughter.
🔹 Yanzhao specialty train meals "Yanzhao delicacies"
No need to bring your own food! Enjoy imperial-style marinated chicken, braised beef brisket, double happiness meatballs, nutritious mixed grain rice, paired with local specialty drinks for a rich flavor experience.
📸 Best spots for photos inside the carriage
Top photo locations: Chinese-style painted train exterior, panoramic skylight sightseeing carriage, intangible cultural heritage display area, enamel washbasin, window-side scenic booths
Outfit suggestions: light-colored long dresses, modern Chinese-style clothing, and traditional Chinese carriage themes work best; avoid dark, dull colors
Best photo time: natural daylight streaming through the scenic windows creates clear and soft images
⚠️ Important tips to avoid pitfalls
1. The panoramic rear carriage offers the best views. If you want a spot, board early
2. The carriage air conditioning tends to be cool regardless of season, so bring a light jacket
3. Some intangible cultural heritage crafts and specialty experiences require additional fees; choose according to your preference
4. Do not lean on or scratch the windows; please be respectful when taking photos
5. Train stops are brief. If you get off at intermediate stations for fresh air, pay close attention to departure announcements to avoid missing the train
💌 Travel summary
Many travelers focus only on the destination and overlook the scenery along the way.
If you’re tired of dull, rushed commutes, try the Starlight · Yanzhao train. Enjoy mountain and countryside views, listen to folk tunes, experience intangible cultural heritage, and leisurely pass the time in a mobile scenic lounge.
Departing from Beijing, start a romantic train journey that turns the trip itself into the scenery!
WanderingWayfarer.49