Tourist train from Sianyang, China, reaches Almaty
Jump on Board: China's First International Tourist Train Arrives in Almaty
The first international tourist train from the People's Republic of China has screeched to a stop at Almaty-2 station in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Here's the low-down on this exciting new venture, inspired by the blending of ancient ties and modern ambitions.
The train, hailing from Xi'an, is a nine-carriage powerhouse hauling roughly 246 adventurous souls. Among the motley crew are business magnates, acclaimed academics, vibrant entertainers, athletic legends, delegates from the Xi'an city government, and even the Vice Mayor of Xi'an, Xiao Qi. These explorers embark on a five-day expedition to immerse themselves in the historical and cultural treasures that Kazakhstan's southern capital has to offer.
The itinerary unfolds as follows:
- Welcome Gala: A formal ceremony welcomes the Chinese tourists upon their arrival, marking the start of the Xi'an-Almaty Cultural Tourism Week.
- Festivities Aplenty: The second day features a grand humanitarian festival at the Republic Square.
- Almaty adventures: The third day offers historical tours of museums and scenic attractions throughout the city.
- Sport and Empowerment: The fourth day is dedicated to sports events, friendly matches, and interactions with local women entrepreneurs.
- Return Journey: The final two days see the passengers departing Almaty and boarding the return journey back to Xi'an.
- Homecoming Celebration: The train is expected to arrive back in Xi'an on the 7th of June.
This pioneering project signifies a crucial stride in strengthening cultural bonds and fostering tourism cooperation between the two nations. Initiated by the Head of State, it's a key part of efforts geared towards developing rail tourism and showcasing Kazakhstan as a sought-after tourist destination.
The train glided through Urumqi, crossed the international border at Khorgos, changed wheel sets, and zoomed through Altynkol station before pulling into Almaty.
The tourist train was orchestrated by JSC "NC "KTZH" in collaboration with the Shaanxi province government, Xi'an municipal authorities, Almaty city administrators, Kazakhstan's Tourism and Sports Ministry, and Kazakhstan's Foreign Affairs Ministry.
Fascinated yet? Check out our coverage on the Keruen Express tourist train departing from Almaty for even more tales of adventure and new beginnings!
Press release from JSC "Passenger Transportation"
- The Keruen Express tourist train, reminiscent of blending lifestyle and travel, also encompasses a deeper interest in politics and general-news as it traverses various landscapes, fostering diplomatic relations between different countries.
- As the Xi'an-Almaty Cultural Tourism Week unfolds, spectators from diverse disciplines – politics, academia, entertainment, sports, and business – bear witness to the exchange of ancient ties and modern ambitions, further enriching the pool of general-news and international travel experiences.
