On New Year’s Eve ushering in the Year of the Snake, two special trains, dubbed the “Spring Train,” will traverse Vietnam from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in dazzling new decor. These trains aim to deliver passengers a unique and festive Tet experience.
A vibrant transformation for Tet
The “Spring Train” project, debuting this Lunar New Year, introduces a fresh tourism concept featuring two specially decorated train cars. The exterior of the trains has been transformed into a vibrant "spring outfit," replacing the usual color schemes with bold and festive Tet-themed designs.
Inside, each train car is adorned with Tet motifs and lively new colors. Beyond being a space for rest, these train cars also serve as picturesque backdrops for passengers to take photos and participate in engaging activities while the train is in motion.
A group of Hanoi-based artists has been involved in designing the train's stunning appearance. Notably, these artists will accompany passengers on New Year’s Eve to celebrate Tet and create sketches throughout the journey from north to south.
Painter Tran Triet Tuyet shared, “Our team frequently paints together, but this is the first time we’ll be sketching as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. It will be a deeply meaningful journey for all of us.”
A festive journey home
The Tet atmosphere is palpable at Hanoi Railway Station, where colorful decorations now brighten the platform.
As the year ends, passenger numbers surge, and the station becomes a bustling hub as hundreds of travelers laden with belongings make their way home for the holiday.
The special “Spring Train” journeys will depart simultaneously from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City on January 28, 2025.
The SE1 train, decorated with peach blossom motifs, will leave Hanoi at 10:10 p.m., heading for Ho Chi Minh City. Meanwhile, the SE2 train will depart Ho Chi Minh City at 7:30 p.m., bound for Hanoi.
According to Vietnam Railways, many passengers only manage to purchase tickets at the last moment on the final day of the year. For those traveling long distances, New Year’s Eve is spent onboard, celebrating Tet with railway staff.
The “Spring Train” project was created to bring a festive and heartwarming Tet experience to these passengers, ensuring that even a journey home feels like a celebration.
Thach Thao