Hanoi (VNA) - In an effort to elevate the passenger experience, Vietnam Railways (VNR) will officially launch 20 new luxury carriages on the Hanoi–Hai Phong railway line starting May 10. These upgraded coaches will operate on trains HP1/HP2, LP5/LP6, LP2/LP3, and LP7/LP8.
The exterior of the new carriages features a vibrant red colour scheme, inspired by the flamboyant flower (Delonix regia), the symbolic bloom of Hai Phong. The interiors have been modernised with elegant, high-end design elements that reflect the northern port city's rich architectural and cultural heritage.
For the first time, Vietnamese railways introduced a VIP carriage with 34 seats, styled in an Indochinese aesthetic, blending modern lines with traditional East Asian tones to create an atmosphere of refinement and sophistication. These carriages feature natural wood flooring, onboard Wi-Fi, and a bar offering complimentary beverages. According to VNR representatives, these onboard mobile luxury spaces are also envisioned as trendy spots and venues for live music performances.
Another highlight is the 56-seat carriage equipped with 180-degree rotating seats, allowing passengers to adjust their seating direction to suit their preference and reduce motion discomfort. All furnishings are thoughtfully curated to provide comfort throughout the journey.
The new coaches are also outfitted with semi-automatic doors, electronic displays for position and speed, spacious wash areas, and clean, modern restrooms with stylish vinyl floors and stone-patterned paneling for a premium feel.
To cater to a wide range of passenger needs, the train also includes 64-seat standard carriages, accompanied by a flexible pricing policy.
Tickets for VIP Class (34 seats) are priced at 250,000 VND (9.62 USD) on weekdays and 300,000 VND (11.55 USD) on weekends, with passengers enjoying one complimentary beverage of their choice, such as juice, chrysanthemum tea, coffee, or bottled water.
First Class (56-seat reversible) fares are set at 150,000 VND (5.77 USD) on weekdays and 180,000 VND (6.93 USD) on weekends, and include a complimentary bottled water. Economy Class (64 seats) tickets are available for 105,000 VND (4.04 USD) on weekdays and 130,000 VND (5 USD) on weekends.
In celebration of the inauguration week from May 10-18, all tickets on this route will be offered at a 10% discount.
The launch coincides with the Red Flamboyant Flower Festival, celebrating the 70th anniversary of Hai Phong's liberation (May 13, 1955 – 2025).
In preparation for this event, the Hai Phong tourism sector is actively working toward designating Hai Phong Station, one of Vietnam’s oldest railway stations, as an official tourist attraction. VNR is also collaborating with local authorities to explore the potential of a rail link connecting Hai Phong Station to Hai Phong Port, aimed at expanding intra-city travel experiences.
According to VNR, passenger numbers on the Hanoi–Hai Phong line have grown steadily by 10% annually from 2022 to 2024, reaching over 1.5 million travelers. The route is particularly popular among young people and students drawn to the city’s vibrant food and city tours./.
