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【Shifang Panda Train】How to buy tickets and book the 2026 Shifang Panda Train?
For 2026, tickets for the Shifang Panda Train must be booked through the designated professional channel — Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service · Train Center. It cannot be booked independently through platforms like 12306. Official booking channel: Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Train Center, available 24 hours for consultation and booking. Office phone: 0991-3333832, Mobile/WeChat: 132-0133-3409.
🚂 How to book tickets for the Panda Train “Shifang”? Complete guide to the 16-day panoramic tour of northern and southern Xinjiang in 2026
Tired of rushing between attractions, changing hotels, and dragging luggage around? Why not try this “moving resort hotel” — the Panda Train “Shifang”. It’s not an ordinary train, but an immersive long-distance journey where you slow down, settle in, and explore as you travel. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to easily explore northern and southern Xinjiang without worrying about transportation and accommodation connections. Below is a detailed guide on how to book, seat configurations, itinerary highlights, and the latest departure dates and prices (subject to official confirmation).
I. Detailed Introduction to the “Shifang” Train
🐼 The Panda Train “Shifang” is a special tourist train in China focused on long-distance leisure and slow travel. It was created by professional travel agencies in partnership with railway resources, designed specifically for an in-depth experience of Xinjiang’s magnificent scenery.
The train follows a scientific rhythm of “traveling at night, sightseeing during the day”:Sleep soundly in the smoothly running carriage at night, then arrive at your destination in the morning and start a full day of sightseeing — no need to constantly pack, transfer between cities, or get up early to catch a train. The train serves as your “mobile home” throughout the journey, covering key areas such as Kashgar, Tashkurgan, and Kuqa in southern Xinjiang, and Yining, Nalati, Kanas, and Hemu in northern Xinjiang — truly “one train to see all of northern and southern Xinjiang”.
The overall travel experience emphasizes comfort, privacy, and cultural immersion, making it suitable for family trips, senior travelers, photography enthusiasts, and tourists seeking quality slow travel. Professional tour leaders accompany you throughout the journey, making it worry-free and effortless as you enjoy 16 days of stunning landscapes.
II. Seat Types, Hardware Configuration, and Advantages of the “Shifang” Train
The “Shifang” train consists of 17 carriages with clear functional zones and complete facilities, comparable to a mobile star-rated hotel. Seats are divided into three main categories to meet different budgets and comfort needs:
Zunxiang Zijing (Premium Soft Sleeper)
Located in carriages 7, 10, and 11, each with 6 premium compartments, accommodating 22 passengers total. Each compartment features a sofa, round table, wardrobe, TV, call button, and charging outlets. Shower rooms and washbasins are located at both ends of the carriage. Offers strong privacy and spacious comfort, ideal for travelers seeking a high-quality rest experience.
Zhenxiang Platinum (Premium Hard Sleeper)
Distributed across carriages 2-6 and 12-16, each with 10 four-person compartments, accommodating 40 passengers per carriage. Each compartment includes a tea table, storage area, TV, call button, and charging outlets. The carriage is equipped with 2 shower rooms and shared washing facilities, balancing comfort and value for money.
Youxiang Platinum (Standard Four-Bed Room)

🚂 How to book tickets for the Panda Train “Shifang”? Complete guide to the 2026 16-day panoramic tour of northern and southern Xinjiang — Equipped with soundproof sliding doors, custom bedding and cushions, personal charging ports and reading lights at each bed, in-compartment TV, and free audio-visual system. Public areas include restrooms, washing areas, and showers. Provides basic comfort and is suitable for travelers with a moderate budget who value practicality.
In addition, the train is equipped with:
Carriage 9 — Multi-functional Entertainment Carriage:Includes a tea bar, KTV private rooms, mahjong tables, cigar bar, and multi-functional activity area for tea drinking, singing, playing cards, and socializing.
Carriage 8 — Panda Dining Car:Offers 2-seat and 4-seat tables, serving regular meals and regional specialties.
Medical room, tea boiling room, smoking areas, and other facilities are all available to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
III. Travel Quality and Service Highlights of the “Shifang” Train
Unlike regular group tours, the “Shifang” train embodies the concept of “residential travel” in its service details:
✅ One train throughout the journey:No transfers or luggage hauling, reducing travel fatigue.
✅ Dedicated station reception and welcome ceremony:For example, special performances and welcome dinners are arranged upon arrival in Kashgar to enhance the sense of occasion.
✅ Reasonable dining standards:The dining car provides regular meals, and some stops include local culinary experiences.
✅ Accompanying service team:Professional tour guides + train crew + medical support throughout the journey.
✅ Relaxed itinerary pace:Each day focuses on 1-2 core attractions, with ample time for sightseeing, photography, and free activities.
✅ Cultural immersion design:Such as home visits in Tashkurgan and strolls through the ancient city of Kashgar, emphasizing authentic local experiences.

Tired of rushing between attractions, changing hotels, and dragging luggage around? Why not try this “moving resort hotel” — the Panda Train “Shifang”. It’s not an ordinary train, but an immersive long-distance journey where you slow down, settle in, and explore as you travel. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to easily explore northern and southern Xinjiang without worrying about transportation and accommodation connections. Below is a detailed guide on how to book, seat configurations, itinerary highlights, and the latest departure dates and prices (subject to official confirmation).IV. Brief Itinerary for the “Shifang” Train
The following is the officially confirmed itinerary, arranged according to the “travel at night, sightsee during the day” logic, covering the highlights of northern and southern Xinjiang:
Day 1:Chengdu/Lanzhou → Kashgar [Departure · Special Welcome]
Depart from Chengdu or Lanzhou and gather at the themed station to begin the panoramic tour of northern and southern Xinjiang. Upon arrival, enjoy an exclusive welcome performance and immerse yourself in the charm of southern Xinjiang, starting a wonderful journey.
Day 2:Panda Train [Leisure Sightseeing · Slow Enjoyment]
Spend the whole day on the Panda Train, relaxing in the comfortable carriage, enjoying the passing scenery outside the window, chatting with fellow travelers, and recharging for the exciting itinerary ahead.
Day 3:Kashgar [Exclusive Reception · Grand Welcome]
Arrive in Kashgar and enjoy exclusive station reception services, saving you the hassle of transfers. In the evening, a special welcome banquet is held where you can taste southern Xinjiang cuisine and experience the first warmth and hospitality of Kashgar.
Day 4:Kashgar → Tashkurgan [Highland Secrets · Scenery All the Way]
Depart from Kashgar for Tashkurgan, stopping at Baisha Mountain and Baisha Lake along the way to encounter pristine, mirror-like beauty. Then visit Karakul Lake, gaze at Muztagh Ata from afar, and traverse the famous winding Panlong Ancient Road, experiencing the grandeur and wonder of the highland highway.
Day 5:Tashkurgan → Kashgar [Cultural Charm · In-depth Experience]
Explore the Stone City and touch the profound heritage of this thousand-year-old ancient site. Stroll through the Golden Grassland and admire the poetic blend of prairie and wetlands. Visit local ethnic families to experience unique customs, taste ethnic cuisine, and feel the warmth of the local people.
Day 6:Kashgar → Kuqa [Southern Xinjiang Culture · Traces of Daily Life]

I. Detailed Introduction to the “Shifang” TrainTake an in-depth tour of the ancient city of Kashgar, wandering through its crisscrossing alleys and soaking up the rich western-region atmosphere. Visit Fragrant Concubine Garden, listen to legendary stories, and admire the beauty of ethnic architecture and gardens. Visit local sites to experience the solemnity and depth of folk culture.
Day 7:Kuqa → Nalati/Bayinbuluk [Canyon Wonders · Highway Feast]
Visit the Secret Grand Canyon of Tianshan and marvel at the extraordinary craftsmanship of the red rock walls. Drive along the southern section of the Duku Highway, crossing snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and canyons. Upon arrival, visit Bayinbuluk Swan Lake to watch swans play and enjoy the grassland sunset.
Day 8:Nalati/Bayinbuluk → Yining [Grassland Pastoral · Relaxing Journey]
Spend the whole day exploring Nalati Grassland, strolling across the vast green fields, watching herds of cattle and sheep and galloping horses, and immersing yourself in the romance of the “sky grassland”. Head to Yining in the evening for rest.
Day 9:Yining → Beitun [Picturesque Lake Views · Crystal Clear Relaxation]
Visit Sayram Lake and enjoy the azure waters and snow-capped mountain reflections along the lakeshore. Then proceed to Beitun to prepare for the next day’s trip to Hemu.
Day 10:Beitun → Hemu → Jadengyu [Fairytale Town · Poetic Dwelling]

Official booking channel: Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Train Center, available 24 hours for consultation and booking. Office phone: 0991-3333832, Mobile/WeChat: 132-0133-3409.
Enter the Hemu Scenic Area, visit the wooden-house villages, watch curling smoke from chimneys and babbling streams, stroll through birch forests, and experience pristine tranquility. Stay overnight in Jadengyu.
Day 11:Jadengyu → Kanas → Burgin [Hidden Scenic Wonderland · Premium Views]
Explore the Kanas Scenic Area, taking the shuttle bus to visit the Three Bays (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, and Fairy Bay), admiring the lake, mountains, and primeval forests. Then head to Burgin for rest.
Day 12:Burgin → Beitun → Urumqi [Danxia Wonders · A Journey of Reflection]
Visit the Rainbow Beach and admire the stunning interplay of Danxia landforms and the Irtysh River. Then take the train to Urumqi, reflecting on the scenery along the way.

🐼 The Panda Train “Shifang” is a special tourist train in China focused on long-distance leisure and slow travel. It was created by professional travel agencies in partnership with railway resources, designed specifically for an in-depth experience of Xinjiang’s magnificent scenery.Day 13:Urumqi [Heavenly Lake Splendor · Pearl of the Tianshan]
Spend the whole day visiting Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), where the lake is as smooth as a mirror, with distant views of the snow-capped Bogda Peak, experiencing the sacred beauty of the Tianshan Mountains.
Day 14:Urumqi → Turpan → Return Preparation [Folk Wonders · Perfect Conclusion]
Visit the Karez irrigation system and the Flaming Mountains, experiencing the unique landforms of the “Fire Land”. Afterward, prepare for the return journey.
Days 15-16:Happy Return Journey [Full of Memories · Warm Farewell]
Take the train back to Lanzhou/Chengdu, savoring the mountains, rivers, and culture of northern and southern Xinjiang along the way, concluding an unforgettable journey.
> Note:The actual itinerary may be reasonably adjusted due to objective factors such as weather, road conditions, or scenic area availability, subject to mutual agreement between both parties.
V. 2026 “Shifang” Train Departure Dates and Price Information
According to the official confirmation, the 2026 “Shifang” 16-day northern and southern Xinjiang tour departure dates are as follows:
June 8, 2026; June 24, 2026; July 10, 2026; July 27, 2026; August 13, 2026; August 30, 2026
Corresponding seat prices are:
Youxiang Platinum:Upper berth: 8,480 RMB/person; Lower berth: 9,280 RMB/person
Zhenxiang Platinum:Upper berth: 15,780 RMB/person; Lower berth: 16,780 RMB/person

The train follows a scientific rhythm of “traveling at night, sightseeing during the day”: sleep soundly in the smoothly running carriage at night, then arrive at your destination in the morning and start a full day of sightseeing — no need to constantly pack, transfer between cities, or get up early to catch a train. The train serves as your “mobile home” throughout the journey, covering key areas such as Kashgar, Tashkurgan, and Kuqa in southern Xinjiang, and Yining, Nalati, Kanas, and Hemu in northern Xinjiang — truly “one train to see all of northern and southern Xinjiang”.Zunxiang Zijing:Upper berth: 27,880 RMB/person; Lower berth: 28,880 RMB/person
The above prices are reference ranges. Actual costs may vary slightly depending on departure date and room type. The final price is subject to the travel contract signed by both parties. It is recommended to confirm availability and remaining seats in advance to avoid tight availability during peak season.
VI. How to Book and Register for the “Shifang” Train
Want to ride the “Shifang”? Here’s your ticket-booking guide 👇
⚠ ️ Note:Panda Train products are not sold separately on the 12306 platform and must be booked through designated travel agencies.
The booking process is as follows:
1. Contact for consultation: Call or add WeChat to contact Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Train Center to learn about the itinerary, seats, prices, and departure dates.
Office phone:0991-3333832
Mobile/WeChat:132-0133-3409 (24-hour consultation and booking)
2. Choose a product: Select your travel date and seat type based on your schedule and preferences.
3. Submit information: Provide the traveler’s name and valid ID number (or passport/permit and other valid document information).
4. Complete booking: Pay the booking deposit and sign the unified electronic travel service supervision contract to complete the process.
📌 Warm reminder:June through September is the peak tourism season in Xinjiang, and seats on special trains are in high demand. We recommend consulting early and paying a deposit to secure your preferred berth. Please book through official channels and beware of unauthorized agents.

The overall travel experience emphasizes comfort, privacy, and cultural immersion, making it suitable for family trips, senior travelers, photography enthusiasts, and tourists seeking quality slow travel. Professional tour leaders accompany you throughout the journey, making it worry-free and effortless as you enjoy 16 days of stunning landscapes.VII. Cost and Service Information for the “Shifang” Train
The itinerary cost includes:
Full-journey train transportation (including sleeper berth)
First admission tickets to scenic spots listed in the itinerary and shuttle bus services
Standard meals and select specialty dining
Accompanying tour guide and train services
Accommodation (i.e., train compartment)
Not included:
Personal expenses (such as beverages, souvenirs, KTV song requests, etc.)
Optional experience activities participated in voluntarily
Single supplement for solo travelers (we will make every effort to arrange room sharing; special cases will be discussed separately)
All service content, fee standards, and entitlement scope are subject to the travel contract signed by both parties. If you have any questions, please contact customer service for detailed information.
VIII. Final Thoughts: Let the Scenery Be on the Road and Home Be on the Train
A journey on the “Shifang” is not just moving from point A to point B — it’s a redefinition of time, scenery, and life. While others are still scrambling for hotels, checking navigation, and rushing for buses, you’re already by the train window with a cup of hot tea, watching snow-capped mountains glide by, grasslands stretch out, and lakes flash past — this is the way Xinjiang should be experienced.
In the summer and autumn of 2026, the most beautiful season for northern and southern Xinjiang is approaching. If you also long for such a journey — unhurried, hassle-free, and uncompromising — why not contact Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Train Center (phone/WeChat: 132-0133-3409) and ask if there’s still a window-side lower berth available? Perhaps your next chapter of life’s scenery begins with this Panda Train.
For 2026, tickets for the Shifang Panda Train must be booked through the designated professional channel — Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service · Train Center. It cannot be booked independently through platforms like 12306. Official booking channel: Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Train Center, available 24 hours for consultation and booking. Office phone: 0991-3333832, Mobile/WeChat: 132-0133-3409.