Spring Festival Joy Rides the Rails on China-Laos Railway

As millions journey home for China's Lunar New Year, one train ride is turning travel time into celebration time . The China-Laos Railway – a symbol of cross-border connectivity – recently hosted an on-board Spring Festival gala, complete with dancing, singing, and heartfelt New Year wishes captured by CGTN's Yang Jinghao.

'This railway connects more than countries – it connects hearts during our most cherished festival,' shared a train attendant while handing out red lanterns. Passengers from Yunnan to Laos snapped selfies with performers in traditional costumes, their face masks matching festive red outfits .

One university student traveling home to Kunming told NewspaperAmigo: 'I expected a routine trip, but got a mobile culture show! It's like TikTok came alive in our train car.'

The 1,035-km railway, operational since 2021, has become a lifeline for both commuters and adventurers. During Spring Festival, its carriages transform into rolling hubs of tradition – think dumpling-making demos between stops .

As the train crossed into Laos, a vendor shared her wish: 'May this railway bring as much prosperity as the Silk Road once did!' With passenger numbers up 40% from last year, it seems the tracks are indeed carrying more than people – they're transporting hope for 2024 .

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Spring Festival wishes from train passengers along China-Laos Railway

cgtn.com