On March 26, marking the 51st anniversary of the liberation of Hue City, Vietnam Railways Corporation launched a new design for the Hue-Danang tourist train and designated Hue Station as a tourist site.
The train has operated since March 26, 2024, with two daily return services numbered HD1/2 and HD3/4 between Hue and Danang. It has completed more than 2,800 safe journeys, carrying over 440,000 passengers between the two cities.
Hue Station, built by the French in 1908 as part of the Trans-Indochina railway, is located in Thuan Hoa Ward in Hue City. It is considered one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and historic stations, designed in French architectural style.
According to Vietnam Railways Corporation, upgrading the train and recognising Hue Station as a tourist destination is expected to attract more passengers and stimulate rail travel demand.
The premium carriages feature a bar serving drinks, with staff offering beverages, fruit and pastries directly to passengers at their seats.
All seating in standard carriages has also been fully replaced. Each train consists of 12 carriages, with 56 soft seats per carriage. The new seats can rotate 180 degrees, allowing passengers to face the direction of travel and enjoy uninterrupted views.
In the communal carriage, passengers can experience the heritage atmosphere of Hue and Hoi An while enjoying traditional performances, including nha nhac, the former royal court music of Hue recognised by UNESCO as world cultural heritage.
Along the nearly 100km route between Hue and Danang, the train passes lagoons and mountain passes with striking scenery.
Notable highlights include the Phu Loc area at night and the picturesque Lap An Lagoon in Chan May-Lang Co.
The train stops at Lang Co Station, allowing passengers to explore one of Hue’s most famous scenic areas.
Lap An Lagoon and Lang Co Bay are among the key attractions along the route.
After departing Lang Co, the train crosses the Hai Van Pass, including the iconic Vom bridge, before arriving in Danang.
Travellers can also view Son Tra Peninsula as the train approaches Danang, while international visitors have expressed particular interest in experiencing the route, often wearing traditional Vietnamese ao dai during the journey.
