Waiting for the steam train

VHXQ - Vietnamese tourism is witnessing a new trend, with old train stations becoming tourist destinations. Alongside this, railway tourism is being planned as a regional product in Central Vietnam.

Interior sketch of a carriage on the Revolution Express steam train.

Notably, Hue Railway Station recently became an official tourist destination of the city. This is also part of the railway tourism development strategy, gradually identifying special destinations along the North-South railway line. Prior to this, in March 2024, when the "Connecting Central Vietnam Heritage" tourist train rolled out, the most beautiful railway route in Vietnam created a strong impression.

For old train stations to become destinations, starting with Da Lat station, Hanoi station, and now Hue station, these spaces are increasingly recognized as experiential spaces and unique tourism products. These regions are "told" through the language of sound and symbolic images, offering distinct experiences.

It is known that Da Nang is implementing a project to restore and operate the Revolution Express tourist steam train (or steam train) on the Da Nang - Hue route. In 2024, CNN's Travel section (USA) noted that this would be an interesting experience for those who love Vietnamese history. This project is a cooperation agreement signed between Indochina Railway Tourism Services Joint Stock Company and Wafaifo Optimisers; and Wafaifo Optimisers officially manages the "Revolution Express" steam train.

Experience a boat trip connecting the heritage sites of Hue and Da Nang. Photo: Le Trong Khang

According to representatives from Wafaifo Optimizers, each train will have two classic-style passenger carriages, a kitchen carriage, and a luggage carriage. The carriages are furnished with luxurious interiors featuring mahogany tables and chairs, gold accents, and decorative paneling in a distinctly Indochinese style.

Large windows in all directions will offer passengers panoramic views of the scenery along the way as the train passes through Hai Van Pass – a famous pass with its rolling green mountain roads overlooking the vast sea, and Lang Co village – renowned for its fishing community and seafood.

Experience aboard the "connecting heritage" ship.

Revolution Express utilizes two original steam locomotives manufactured in the 1960s based on the French Mikado design – these are two of the last steam locomotives ever to operate in Vietnam, now restored to pull classic-style passenger carriages along with kitchen and baggage cars, offering a new travel experience for passengers.

This train is expected to offer a completely different travel experience for visitors. Passengers will not only be riding a train but also sitting in a "mobile, classic-style space," where each whistle and spray of water creates a rhythm interwoven with industrial history and natural landscapes.

The ship connects the heritage of Central Vietnam. Photo: LTK

Revolution Express also plans to create themed dining experiences at three stations along the route, including Kim Lien (Da Nang), Lang Co, and Hue, with unique entertainment programs and menus. All three stations are expected to focus on three different historical themes: the Hue royal court, the colonial era, and the independence movement, allowing travelers to journey back in time.

Experience aboard a heritage ship.

Mr. Michael Gebbie, representative of Indochina Railway Tourism Services Joint Stock Company, said that the steam train tour is expected to bring back the old landmarks of the railway system, reviving important periods in Vietnamese history from the imperial era to the colonial era, and finally the struggle for independence. This model transforms each stop into a point of cultural, culinary, and nostalgic experience.

Revolution Express is expected to officially begin operations in 2026.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/cho-doi-tau-lua-hoi-nuoc-3318756.html