Panda Special Train Shifang Route How to Buy Tickets and Official Booking Channels

【Shifang Panda Special Train】How to buy tickets and book the 2026 Shifang Panda Special Train?
The 2026 Shifang Panda Special Train must be booked through the designated professional and official railway channel — Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service · Special Train Center. It cannot be booked directly through platforms such as 12306. Official registration channel: Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center is available for consultation and registration 24 hours a day. Company landline: 0991-3333832, mobile and WeChat: 132-0133-3409.
🚂 Slowly Traveling Through Mountains and Rivers, One Train to See All of Southern and Northern Xinjiang — A Panoramic Journey on the Panda Special Train “Shifang”
In this fast-paced era, a truly relaxed, unhurried, and immersive journey is especially precious. In 2026, the Panda Special Train “Shifang” takes “residential-style slow travel” as its core concept, turning the train into a mobile comfortable residence, taking you across the Tianshan Mountains from north to south — from the ancient city of Kashgar to Hemu Village, from Sayram Lake to the Flaming Mountains. Over the 16-day itinerary, there is no need to change accommodation or rush around; enjoy the scenery by day and sleep soundly on the train at night, making the journey itself part of the scenery.
I. Detailed Introduction to the “Shifang” Special Train
The Panda Special Train “Shifang” is a distinctive long-distance leisure and slow-travel special train in China, developed by professional travel agencies in cooperation with railway resources. It is designed for travelers seeking comfortable experiences, in-depth culture, and natural scenery. The entire journey adopts the classic model of “traveling at night, sightseeing by day” — sleep on the train at night, saving the hassle of frequently packing luggage and transferring between cities; get off during the day to easily explore the highlights of Southern and Northern Xinjiang.
This route covers the core areas of Southern and Northern Xinjiang, connecting Kashgar, Tashkurgan, Kuqa, Nalati, Yining, Hemu, Kanas, Urumqi, Turpan, and more. Travelers can enjoy snow-capped mountains, lakes, grasslands, and canyons, while also experiencing the urban scenery of diverse cultural integration. The entire journey has a relaxed pace with ample time reserved for sightseeing, photography, and rest, making it suitable for family trips, senior travelers, and those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle.
II. Seat Types, Hardware Configuration, and Advantages of the “Shifang” Special Train
The “Shifang” train consists of 17 carriages with clear functional zoning and complete facilities, balancing privacy and social interaction:
Premium Purple Gold (High-end Soft Sleeper)
Located in carriages 7, 10, and 11, each carriage has 6 high-end compartments with a total of 22 berths. Each compartment is equipped with a sofa, round table, wardrobe, TV, call button, and charging sockets. Both ends of the carriage feature shower rooms and washbasins. The space is spacious and private, suitable for travelers with higher requirements for accommodation quality.
Premium Platinum (High-end Hard Sleeper)
Distributed across carriages 2-6 and 12-16, each carriage has 10 four-person compartments with a total of 40 berths. Each compartment includes a tea table, storage compartment, TV, call button, and charging sockets. The carriage is equipped with two shower rooms, balancing comfort and practicality — a choice that offers both value and experience.
Comfort Platinum (Standard Four-person Room)

🚂 Slowly Traveling Through Mountains and Rivers, One Train to See All of Southern and Northern Xinjiang — A Panoramic Journey on the Panda Special Train “Shifang” is equipped with soundproof sliding doors, custom bedding and pillows, reading lights and charging ports by the berths, in-compartment TV, and a free audio-visual system. Public areas include restrooms, washrooms, and shower rooms to meet basic travel needs, suitable for travelers with a moderate budget who value the overall itinerary experience.
In addition, the train also features:
Multi-functional Entertainment Carriage (Carriage 9):Includes a tea bar, KTV private rooms, entertainment room, mahjong tables, and cigar bar, integrating leisure, socializing, and entertainment;
Panda Dining Car (Carriage 8):Offers 2-seat and 4-seat tables, serving full meals and specialty light meals;
Supporting Service Facilities:Infirmary, tea room, smoking areas, and more are all available to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
III. Travel Quality and Service Highlights of the “Shifang”
Unlike traditional group tours, the “Shifang” emphasizes “light burden, deep experience”:
✅ Attentive Accompanying Service:Professional tour leaders and train attendants are provided throughout the journey, offering itinerary guidance, life assistance, and emergency support;
✅ Comfortable Accommodation Experience:No need to change hotels daily — luggage is settled once, the train runs smoothly at night, and sleep quality is guaranteed;
✅ Exclusive Special Arrangements:Such as Kashgar welcome performances, ethnic home visits, and welcome banquets to enhance cultural immersion;
✅ Convenient Transportation Experience:The special train arrives directly at stations near scenic areas, reducing long-distance bus transfers and saving energy;
✅ Reasonable Dining Standards:The dining car provides nutritionally balanced Chinese meals that consider both taste and health, with some meals incorporating local flavors.

In this fast-paced era, a truly relaxed, unhurried, and immersive journey is especially precious. In 2026, the Panda Special Train “Shifang” takes “residential-style slow travel” as its core concept, turning the train into a mobile comfortable residence, taking you across the Tianshan Mountains from north to south — from the ancient city of Kashgar to Hemu Village, from Sayram Lake to the Flaming Mountains. Over the 16-day itinerary, there is no need to change accommodation or rush around; enjoy the scenery by day and sleep soundly on the train at night, making the journey itself part of the scenery.The entire journey maintains a balanced rhythm — featuring both magnificent natural landscapes and thoughtful cultural details, truly achieving “live while traveling, rest while playing.”
IV. Brief Itinerary of the “Shifang” Special Train
> (The following content is strictly presented based on the actual local route information)
Day 1:Chengdu/Lanzhou → Kashgar [Departure and Setting Off · Special Welcome]
Depart from Chengdu or Lanzhou and gather at the themed station to begin the panoramic journey through Southern and Northern Xinjiang; upon arrival, enjoy an exclusive welcome performance and immerse yourself in the charm of Southern Xinjiang, starting a wonderful journey.
Day 2:Panda Special Train [Leisure Sightseeing · Slow Enjoyment]
Spend the whole day on the Panda Special Train, relaxing in the comfortable carriage, enjoying the flowing scenery outside the window, chatting with fellow travelers, and building up energy for the exciting itinerary ahead.
Day 3:Kashgar [Exclusive Pick-up · Grand Welcome Banquet]
Arrive in Kashgar and enjoy exclusive pick-up service, saving you the hassle of traveling; 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 Hidden Gems · Scenery All the Way]
Depart from Kashgar to Tashkurgan, stopping at Baisha Mountain and Baisha Lake along the way to encounter the pure beauty of a “mirror of the sky”; then visit Karakul Lake, gaze at Muztagh Ata from afar, and traverse the famous winding Panlong Ancient Road, experiencing the magnificence and wonder of the highland highway.
Day 5:Tashkurgan → Kashgar [Cultural Charm · In-depth Experience]

I. Detailed Introduction to the “Shifang” Special TrainExplore 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 distinctive folk customs, taste ethnic cuisine, and feel the simple hospitality of the local people.
Day 6:Kashgar → Kuqa [Southern Xinjiang Culture · Traces of Daily Life]
Take an in-depth tour of the ancient city of Kashgar, wandering through its crisscrossing alleys and experiencing the rich atmosphere of Western Region life; visit the Fragrant Concubine Garden, listen to legendary stories, and admire the beauty of ethnic architecture and gardens; visit local sites to appreciate the solemnity and depth of folk culture.
Day 7:Kuqa → Nalati/Bayinbuluk [Canyon Wonders · A Feast on the Highway]
Head to the Secret Grand Canyon of the Tianshan Mountains to marvel at the extraordinary craftsmanship of red rock walls and feel the sculpting power of nature; drive along the southern section of the Duku Highway, crossing snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and canyons to experience “four seasons in one day”; 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 the Nalati Grassland, strolling across the vast green meadows, watching herds of cattle and sheep and galloping horses, breathing in the fresh grassland air, and fully immersing yourself in the romance and grandeur of the “grassland in the sky”; head to Yining in the evening for rest.

Official registration channel: Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center is available for consultation and registration 24 hours a day. Company landline: 0991-3333832, mobile and WeChat: 132-0133-3409.
Day 9:Yining → Beitun [Picturesque Lakes · Crystal-clear Relaxation]
Depart from Yining to Sayram Lake — the “last tear of the Atlantic” — and take a leisurely walk around the lake, admiring the stunning picture of azure waters and snow-capped mountain reflections, feeling the purity and tranquility of this highland lake; then head to Beitun to prepare for the next day’s trip to Hemu.
Day 10:Beitun → Hemu → Jadengyu [Fairytale Town · Poetic Dwelling]
Head to the “last piece of pristine land” — the Hemu Scenic Area. Walk into the scattered wooden house village, watch the curling smoke from chimneys and the babbling streams, stroll through the birch forests, and feel the peace and beauty of this primitive village; head to Jadengyu in the evening to stay overnight, falling asleep to the grassland night.
Day 11:Jadengyu → Kanas → Burgin [Picturesque Hidden Realm · Superior Scenery]

The Panda Special Train “Shifang” is a distinctive long-distance leisure and slow-travel special train in China, developed by professional travel agencies in cooperation with railway resources. It is designed for travelers seeking comfortable experiences, in-depth culture, and natural scenery. The entire journey adopts the classic model of “traveling at night, sightseeing by day” — sleep on the train at night, saving the hassle of frequently packing luggage and transferring between cities; get off during the day to easily explore the highlights of Southern and Northern Xinjiang.Explore the “picturesque paradise on earth” — the Kanas Scenic Area. Take the shuttle bus to visit the Three Bays (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, and Immortal Bay), watching the lake water change with light and shadow and admiring the lush tranquility of the primeval forest; then head to Burgin to rest and relax, discovering local specialty cuisine.
Day 12:Burgin → Beitun → Urumqi [Danxia Wonders · Looking Back Along the Way]
Visit the Colorful Beach (Wucaitan) to admire the stunning landscape where Danxia landforms meet the Irtysh River, experiencing the wonder of “one river separating two banks, two banks under different skies”; then head to Beitun and take the special train to Urumqi, reviewing the beautiful scenery along the way and looking forward to the remaining itinerary.
Day 13:Urumqi [Heavenly Lake Splendor · Pearl of the Tianshan Mountains]
Spend the whole day visiting the Tianshan Heavenly Lake Scenic Area, strolling along the lakeshore to see the crystal-clear lake like a mirror, gazing at the majestic snow-capped Bogda Peak in the distance, feeling the sacredness and grandeur of this pearl of the Tianshan Mountains, and fully experiencing the beauty of Xinjiang’s mountains and waters.
Day 14:Urumqi → Turpan → Return Preparation [Folk Wonders · A Perfect Conclusion]
Travel from Urumqi to Turpan to visit the ancient water conservancy marvel — the Karez irrigation system — and appreciate the wisdom and craftsmanship of the ancients; stop by the Flaming Mountains to experience the scorching heat and wonder of the “Land of Fire”; after the tour, prepare for the return journey, bringing this trip to a perfect conclusion.
Days 15-16:Happy Return Journey [Full of Memories · Warm Farewell]
Depart from Urumqi and take the special train back to Lanzhou/Chengdu, reminiscing about the mountains, rivers, and cultural charm of Southern and Northern Xinjiang along the way. Bid farewell to all distinguished guests and conclude this unforgettable Panda Special Train panoramic journey, returning home with wonderful memories.
V. 2026 “Shifang” Special Train Departure Dates and Price Information
> (The following content is strictly presented based on the actual local route information and is recommended as a compliant transition)
The confirmed departure dates for the 2026 “Shifang” 16-day Southern and Northern Xinjiang tour are as follows:

This route covers the core areas of Southern and Northern Xinjiang, connecting Kashgar, Tashkurgan, Kuqa, Nalati, Yining, Hemu, Kanas, Urumqi, Turpan, and more. Travelers can enjoy snow-capped mountains, lakes, grasslands, and canyons, while also experiencing the urban scenery of diverse cultural integration. The entire journey has a relaxed pace with ample time reserved for sightseeing, photography, and rest, making it suitable for family trips, senior travelers, and those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle.June 8, June 24, July 10, July 27, August 13, August 30
Reference prices for seats are as follows (unit:RMB/person):
Comfort Platinum:Upper berth 8,480 RMB, lower berth 9,280 RMB
Premium Platinum:Upper berth 15,780 RMB, lower berth 16,780 RMB
Premium Purple Gold:Upper berth 27,880 RMB, lower berth 28,880 RMB
The above prices are currently published reference prices. Actual costs may vary slightly depending on departure dates, seat availability, and other factors. The specific price shall be subject to the tourism contract signed by both parties. It is recommended to consult in advance to confirm schedules and availability.
VI. How to Book and Register for the “Shifang” Special Train
If you want to ride the “Shifang” Special Train, here is your ticket booking guide 👇
🐼 Panda Special Train-related tourism products are not sold separately on the 12306 platform and must be booked through designated travel agencies.
The booking process is as follows:
1️⃣ Contact and Consultation:Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center provides 24-hour consultation services, where you can learn about detailed itineraries, seat types, reference prices, and departure schedules.
📞 Company landline:0991-3333832

II. Seat Types, Hardware Configuration, and Advantages of the “Shifang” Special Train📱 Mobile and WeChat:132-0133-3409
2️⃣ Choose Your Travel Product:Select the appropriate departure date and seat type based on your personal schedule and preferences.
3️⃣ Submit Personal Information:Provide the traveler’s name, valid ID number (or valid documents such as Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan travel permits, or passports) for registration and seat reservation.
4️⃣ Complete Booking Procedures:Pay the booking deposit as required, obtain the payment receipt, and sign the unified electronic contract for tourism service supervision to complete the booking.
⚠ ️ Friendly Reminder:June to September is the peak tourism season in Xinjiang each year, and seats on special trains are in high demand. It is recommended to consult early and pay the deposit to secure your preferred berth. Please use official channels and beware of unauthorized agents.
VII. Fee and Service Information for the “Shifang” Special Train
Services included in this itinerary include:Special train transportation, accommodation during the itinerary (special train compartments), first admission tickets to scenic spots, shuttle bus services, welcome activities, basic meals, and full-journey tour leader services.
Self-funded activities chosen voluntarily, additional beverages, single-room supplement coordination, etc., are not included in the unified package.
All service contents, fee standards, and rights descriptions shall be subject to the tourism contract signed by both parties. For detailed service terms, you may contact Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center for written documentation.
VIII. Final Words: Inviting You to a Moving Feast 🌄
As the train slowly passes beneath the Tianshan Mountains, with endless snow-capped peaks and boundless grasslands outside the window and the aroma of tea and light laughter inside the carriage — this is not just a journey, but a healing experience for body and mind. In 2026, the “Shifang” has prepared its seats, waiting to embark with you on this 16-day journey across Southern and Northern Xinjiang.
No need to rush, no need to transfer — just bring your expectations and relaxation, and let the scenery come to you.
📩 Contact Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center now (0991-3333832 / 132-0133-3409) to begin your slow journey through mountains and rivers.
The 2026 Shifang Panda Special Train must be booked through the designated professional and official railway channel — Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service · Special Train Center. It cannot be booked directly through platforms such as 12306. Official registration channel: Manager Mai of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center is available for consultation and registration 24 hours a day. Company landline: 0991-3333832, mobile and WeChat: 132-0133-3409.