Hoa Phuong Do train nears 3,000 trips in first year

Hoa Phuong Do train has carried around 1.33 million passengers in its first year. It also completed almost 3,000 journeys on the Hanoi – Hai Phong route. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

According to Vietnam.vn, Vietnam Railways Corporation (VNR) said May 10th marked the anniversary. The date marked one year since the high-quality train launched on the route.

Hoa Phuong Do train ridership after one year

During its first year, the train made nearly 3,000 trips. It served approximately 1.33 million passengers. Also, monthly ridership often rises above 130,000 in peak periods. Those periods include holidays, Tet (Lunar New Year), and the summer tourist season. Weekend and long-holiday departures are often booked early. At the same time, VIP carriages often sell out.

According to VNR, the train has impressed with its modern design and interior space. Red is the dominant color. The design was inspired by the flamboyant flower, a distinctive symbol of Hai Phong.

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The service operates 8 round trips each day between Hanoi and Hai Phong. It stops at several major stations and serves different passenger needs. In addition, it offers multiple ticket classes and flexible departure times. For example, many young travelers use it for one-day “Hai Phong food tours”. Travel time is reasonable, and the return journey is convenient.

Tourism services on the Hanoi – Hai Phong route

Meanwhile, the railway sector has coordinated with Hai Phong’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Travel agencies are also part of the effort. Together, they organize tours and experiences on the “Red Phoenix Flower” train. These activities contribute to promoting the tourism, culture, and people of the port city.

“After a year of operation, the train has gradually built a modern, civilized, and friendly image, contributing to improving the quality of passenger rail transport services in the direction of safety – punctuality – convenience – sustainability,” a VNR representative said.

Separately, economy-class carriages are fitted with seats that can rotate 180 degrees. This lets passengers change their sitting direction. They can also view the landscape more easily along the route.

The “Red Phoenix Flower” tourist train consists of 20 brand-new carriages. It includes 2 VIP carriages designed in the Indochine style. Its interior combines nostalgic and modern elements. The aim is to improve the passenger experience.

VIP carriages and ticket prices

The two VIP carriages include 16 single sofas and 5 long sofa sets. Together, they provide 20 seats arranged across three different spaces. They feature natural wood flooring, luxurious interiors, and free Wi-Fi. Also, a bar and live music are provided for passengers.

Inside the VIP section, seating is arranged in several styles. This gives the space an atmosphere closer to a café or restaurant. It feels less like a conventional railway carriage. A special-class ticket in the 34-seat VIP carriage costs 250,000 VND on weekdays. On weekends, it costs 300,000 VND.

The remaining 18 carriages are equipped with 56 seats that can rotate 180 degrees. They also include carpeted flooring, stone-patterned plastic wall panels, and decorative LED ceiling lights. The rotating seat design lets passengers adjust their direction. It also offers views from different angles during the journey. Separately, tickets for these carriages usually cost 150,000 VND on weekdays. On weekends, they usually cost 180,000 VND.

Still, these fares are 2-3 times higher than standard train tickets on the same route. A regular soft, air-conditioned seat costs 95,000-135,000 VND per passenger.

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