Introduction

MTR Corporation is set to revolutionize travel between Hong Kong and Mainland China with the announcement of a significant expansion to its High Speed Rail (HSR) network. Beginning on January 5, 2025, a new long-distance route to Xi’anbei in Shaanxi Province will be inaugurated, replete with additional destinations that promise to enhance tourist experiences and facilitate smoother cross-border travel.

Expanded Connections

With the introduction of this new route, the number of direct destinations accessible through the HSR will soar to an impressive 94, supported by a robust schedule of up to 108 pairs of daily train services. Among the notable additions are three exciting new destinations designated under the Individual Visit Scheme: Meizhouxi, Suzhounan, and Xi’anbei. This large-scale enhancement marks a turning point in travel convenience for both tourists and local residents seeking to explore the vibrant Mainland.

Cultural Highlights of Xi'an

The city of Xi'an, famed for its historical treasures including the ancient Terracotta Army and a cultural tapestry woven through millennia, will now be directly reachable via a daily round trip from Hong Kong. The expansion underscores the importance of Xi'an and its surrounding gems, such as Luoyang, home to the stunning Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Huashan, renowned for its breathtaking mountain trails.

Enhancements to the HSR Network

Moreover, additional enhancements to the HSR will see a new stop at Xintang, a burgeoning development zone within Guangzhou, which is fast becoming a critical player in the Greater Bay Area. The synergy created by these new routes will not only enrich travel choices for passengers but will also support the region's economic growth.

Statements from MTR Corporation

Ms. Jeny Yeung, Managing Director of Hong Kong Transport Services at MTR Corporation, said, “Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the governments and railway authorities from both the Mainland and Hong Kong, we have seen considerable growth since HSR's inception. The number of direct destinations has grown dramatically, bridging the gap between Hong Kong and Mainland China. Alongside the Xi’anbei route, we are committed to enhancing existing services to meet our passengers’ evolving needs.”

Additional Services and Enhancements

Additional service enhancements slated for January 5, 2025, include a new daily service connecting Hong Kong West Kowloon to key destinations like Shenzhenbei, Shanwei, and Wuhan. Adjustments and improvements will also be introduced to existing routes to Guangzhoudong, Chaoshan, Shanghai, Beijing, and Chongqing. To accommodate the increased travel demand during the holiday season, extra train services will run from December 24 to 29, 2024, optimizing connectivity between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

Chartered Train Services

In a bid to bolster travel experiences further, MTR Corporation recently introduced Chartered Train Services aimed at group travel, with unique round-trip charters to popular destinations like Chaoshan and Zhangjiajiexi lined up for the upcoming festive season.

Conclusion

This ambitious expansion not only reinforces MTR Corporation's dedication to exceptional transit services but also catalyzes greater cultural exchange and economic integration between Hong Kong and Mainland China. The future of cross-border travel looks promising! Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the wonders of China with this game-changing new route!