The train was chartered by Thanh Hung Group to take employees and their families on a holiday as part of the government's domestic tourism stimulus programme.
Vietnam Railways arranged 10 passenger coaches and a dining car, with departure and return schedules tailored to the group's requirements. The train left Vinh at 12.50 pm on June 27 and is scheduled to return on June 30.
Thanh Hung Group said chartering the entire train reduced travel costs through discounted fares while providing passengers with greater privacy and a more convenient travel experience.
Nguyen Huy Hai, deputy director of the Vinh Railway Transport Branch, said charter services could be customised to meet customers' needs, including departure times, onboard catering and group activities.
He said the service offers Vietnam Railways new business opportunities as it competes with other transport modes while supporting tourism by turning the journey itself into part of the travel experience.
With the country's north-south railway network passing through many scenic and culturally rich destinations, charter trains are expected to become an increasingly attractive tourism product.
