The panda-themed tourist train, a tourism initiative originating from Sichuan, is now running south to Yunnan, linking the region's scenic and cultural landmarks while offering travelers an opportunity to enjoy the vibrant spring landscape and explore local traditions and attractions.

Departing from Chengdu, provincial capital of southwest China's Sichuan, the panda special train, with 466 passengers on board, is heading through northwestern and southern Yunnan, connecting eight cities and a variety of cultural and tourism hotspots.

Among the highlights is Lincang city, known for its lush forests, clear streams, and misty mountains. The area is also home to the Wengding primitive tribe, which preserves traditional Wa ethnic minority group's customs and attracts numerous visitors each spring.
"I had come across information about the Wengding [primitive tribe] online and had long craved for a visit. There, I saw the Lamu drum, and when I strike at different points, it makes a variety of sounds, which was fascinating," said a passenger.

Just 50 kilometers from the Wengding tribe lies the "Thousand-Meter Cliff Mural Corridor", a breathtaking karst landscape resembling a dark, vibrant Chinese landscape painting. March is the peak tourist season here, with visitor numbers reaching nearly 20 percent of the total annual flow.

"The growth of cultural tourism has created more job opportunities for the local community to earn money. Many villagers are now working in tourism-related roles such as security, tour guides, and folk performers. Additionally, local specialty foods and agricultural products from surrounding villages are also selling well," said Yang Ping, deputy director of the Lincang City Bureau of Culture and Tourism.
The special train is operated by the Chengdu Railway Bureau and boasts a flexible schedule, with multiple departures throughout the year. The routes not only extend beyond southwest China, but also cover dozens of cities across the country.