Jianshui Train

What are the most recommended things to do in Jianshui Train?

  • Take a scenic ride on the historic Jianshui Train and enjoy views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Learn about the history of local railways and the role of the train in regional transportation.
  • Walk around the train station area to see vintage locomotives and carriages on display.
  • Take photographs of the train, tracks, and scenic landscapes.
  • Experience a short cultural tour if offered, including stories of local history and railway development.

Introducing Jianshui Train

The Jianshui train is located in Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The starting point of the Jianshui Ancient City train is located at Lin'an Station. The decoration of the entire station, the decoration of the carriages and the clothes of the waiters are very distinctive, and it has a very historical atmosphere. It is a good place to take photos here.

The meter-gauge sightseeing train from Jianshui Ancient City to Tuanshan runs from Jianshui East to Tuanshan Folk Houses, covering a total distance of approximately 12.82 kilometers. Initially, it will connect to Lin'an Station, Shuanglong Bridge Station, Xianghui Bridge Station, and Tuanshan Station. Passengers can enjoy the rural scenery along the way and visit famous scenic spots such as Xiaogui Lake, Shuanglong Bridge, and Tuanshan Folk Houses.

The meter-gauge tourist train from Jianshui East (Lin'an Ancient City) to Tuanshan Folk Houses, jointly implemented by Jianshui County and the Kunming Railway Bureau, officially began trial operation on May 1, 2014. The launch of a tourist train service from Jianshui to Tuanshan marks the fulfillment of a century-old dream. This will not only serve as a pioneering experiment and accumulate experience for the preservation and development of "meter-gauge cultural tourism" in China, but also represents a breakthrough for Jianshui in its efforts to restore and preserve the ancient city, integrate and tap into Jianshui's rich cultural and tourism resources, optimize and upgrade its tourism industry, create cultural and tourism products, and pursue innovation in tourism development.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical plateau monsoon climate has a relatively uniform seasonal pattern, with rainy and cool summers and warm winters. All seasons are suitable for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Taking the tourist train, the scenery on both sides of the line changes with the seasons: the tender yellow rapeseed flowers are full of vitality in spring, the green seedlings are lush in summer, the golden rice conveys the joy of harvest in autumn, and the sparkling paddy fields in winter are pregnant with new hope in silence, forming a unique and beautiful historical and cultural tourism landscape.


It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

Hard seat round trip adult ticket 120 yuan/person

Soft seat round trip adult ticket 150 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Departure time: 09:00-10:50; Return time: 13:00-13:45

Departure time: 14:30-16:20; Return time: 17:50-18:35


Most Popular FAQs for Jianshui Train

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Jianshui Train is a historic narrow-gauge railway line in Yunnan, reflecting the early 20th-century development of transportation in the region. It played a key role in connecting local communities and supporting trade.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Jianshui County, Red River Prefecture, Yunnan. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local bus, or private car from nearby towns or Jianshui Old Town.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to ride and photograph the train are in the morning or late afternoon when lighting is ideal.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets for train rides are usually purchased on-site at the station. Prices are affordable and may vary depending on the distance of the ride. Some local tourism platforms may offer online booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended during holidays or peak tourist season; otherwise, tickets can be bought on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours is sufficient for a train ride, exploring the station area, and taking photographs.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The historic train station and platforms.
  • Vintage locomotives and carriages on display.
  • Scenic sections of the train route through the countryside.
  • Railway exhibits or small museums if available.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Chinese. English or other language options are limited, so using a translation app or local guide is helpful.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Along the tracks with the train approaching or passing by.
  • From the station platforms for vintage locomotives.
  • Overlooking bridges or countryside sections for scenic shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main station, ride the train along the scenic route, stop at key viewpoints if available, and then explore the station and exhibits before leaving.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typical; most operations occur during daytime.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays are the least crowded. Weekends and public holidays may have larger tourist groups.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include toilets and small waiting areas. Nearby cafes or snack stalls may be available.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Generally accessible for most visitors, but some train platforms and carriages may have steps that challenge wheelchair users or the elderly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used for ticket purchases; some places may accept mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Several local restaurants and small cafes near the station serve regional cuisine and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available; halal options are limited in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and small inns are available in Jianshui Old Town or near the station.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Jianshui Ancient Town
  • Chengzi Ancient City
  • Confucian Temple of Jianshui
  • Shuanglong Bridge

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small shops sell local handicrafts, traditional snacks, and miniature railway models.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, private cars, or local buses are convenient to reach nearby towns, attractions, or Jianshui Old Town.