Frequently Asked Questions

GOLDEN PANDA EXPRESS is the official English name of 锦绣东方号, previously rendered in English as JINXIU DONGFANG. It is a luxury cultural train shaped by Eastern aesthetics, bringing Bashu heritage, contemporary design, private suites, themed dining, observation, leisure and cultural experiences together in one moving hotel.

The 18-carriage formation includes 11 guest carriages with 33 double suites of approximately 13.8 m² and an intimate capacity of about 66 guests. Jingong and Jinyan dining carriages sit alongside dedicated welcome, observation, kitchen and journey-support carriages.

Panda Suites and Han-inspired Suites are presented. Each approximately 13.8 m² suite has twin beds that can be separated or joined, a minibar, vanity, sofa and private wet-and-dry bathroom. Each guest carriage contains three double suites.

Jingong and Jinyan are the two themed dining carriages. Jingong has 34 seats and Jinyan 36, combining composed dining with performance and cultural presentation. Menus, drinks and meal formats follow the departure service note.

The journey begins in Chengdu and links Urumqi, Altay, Ili, Kuqa, Kashgar and the Pamir Plateau before returning to Chengdu by train. The website presents D1–D16 and the published A/B/C sightseeing combinations; railway stops and timings follow dispatch instructions and the pre-departure notice.

All guests use the non-Duku programme on 17 May and 30 September because of seasonal snow and road-opening conditions. Foreign-passport guests use the non-Duku programme on every departure. On the other six departures, the Duku programme applies to Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan guests, subject to any temporary road closure.

Yes. Regular departures on 17 May, 3 June, 20 June, 7 July, 24 July and 30 September are RMB 138,888 per guest or RMB 888,888 per full carriage. Peak departures on 27 August and 13 September are RMB 158,888 per guest or RMB 988,888 per full carriage.

A journey-support medical room and licensed medical staff are provided. This does not replace hospital treatment or emergency rescue. Guests with medical, mobility or care needs should enquire before travel and complete any required assessment.

Please share dietary restrictions, mobility assistance, medical considerations or other care needs when making an enquiry. A travel advisor can confirm available support against the final train and service plan. No support should be considered confirmed before that conversation.

Contact Eric or Danny at the CTS Official Sales Centre, email dongyi@cts.cn, or use the website enquiry form. Service hours are 09:00–21:00 daily. The complete design presentation and the applicable Chinese or English itinerary handbook are supplied on request.

Each guest carriage contains three double suites for up to six guests and may travel as a private group. A full carriage is RMB 888,888 on regular departures and RMB 988,888 on peak departures. Suite allocation, traveller names and contract are confirmed by the Official Sales Centre.

An English-speaking ground guide can be requested in advance; availability and any supplement are confirmed by the sales manager. The launch website is in Simplified Chinese and English. Traditional Chinese or other-language materials can be prepared individually through the sales manager.