Xiaoxiang Peak Season Tickets Tight How to Reserve When Remaining Tickets Are Insufficient
【Xiaoxiang Special Train】How to buy tickets and book the 2026 Xiaoxiang Special Train?
The 2026 Xiaoxiang Special Train must be booked through the railway-designated professional and official channel — Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service · Special Train Center. It cannot be booked directly through platforms such as 12306. Official registration channel: Manager Mai Zi of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center, available 24 hours for consultation and registration. Company landline: 0991-3333832, mobile and WeChat: 132-0133-3409.
Many people’s first reaction when they see “Xiaoxiang” is:Is this a Changsha metro card? 🤔 Actually, this is a tourist special train heading to Xinjiang. Below, we will clarify how to book the “Xiaoxiang” train and how to use the “Xiaoxiang Card” to take the metro in Changsha.
🚂 I. Detailed Introduction to the Xiaoxiang Special Train
✨ Positioning and Background
The “Xiaoxiang” is the “Southern Train · Xiaoxiang” special tourist train launched by China Railway Guangzhou, positioned as a long-distance leisure slow-travel special train. It is designed for tourists who wish to explore Xinjiang in depth in one trip, especially suitable for middle-aged and elderly travelers and family trips.
🛏 ️ “Night Travel, Day Sightseeing” Mode
Night Travel:The train runs while you rest. You simply sleep through the night and wake up at a new destination.
Day Sightseeing:All scenic spots are arranged during the day, with a relaxed itinerary pace. No need to frequently pack luggage or switch hotels like on regular trains.
🏞 ️ Full Panoramic Loop of Northern and Southern Xinjiang
The special train departs from Guangzhou and heads west, connecting the highlights of both northern and southern Xinjiang in a full panoramic loop. Along the way, you will see lakes, grasslands, deserts, ancient cities, snow-capped mountains, and other diverse landscapes for a rich experience.
🎯 Target Audience
Travelers who want to visit Xinjiang in one trip without self-driving or frequent transfers.
Middle-aged and elderly travelers who prefer “slow travel” and want a relaxed journey with comfortable accommodation.
Families who enjoy the “train + hotel” model and love scenic views along the way.
🛌 II. Seat Types, Hardware Configuration, and Advantages
💡 Important Notice
The “Xiaoxiang” is a railway-designated customized tourist special train and is not sold to the public through 12306. Seat allocation is uniformly managed and booked by designated travel agencies.
🛋 ️ Special Train Sleeper Seats
The special train adopts a “one berth per night” accommodation style, with more space than regular hard sleepers, equipped with reading lights and power sockets. Depending on budget and needs, different room types are available:
🥇 Xiaoxiang Suite (Premium Room Type):With private bathroom, accommodates 2-3 people, good privacy and high comfort.
Many people’s first reaction when they see “Xiaoxiang” is: Is this a Changsha metro card? 🤔 Actually, this is a tourist special train heading to Xinjiang. Below, we will clarify how to book the “Xiaoxiang” train and how to use the “Xiaoxiang Card” to take the metro in Changsha.🥈 Zhengxiang Courtyard (2-Bed Room):Comfortable standard room, no private bathroom, relatively spacious.
🥉 Zhengxiang Courtyard (4-Bed Room):High cost-performance option, no private bathroom, suitable for friends or family traveling together.
Economy 4-Bed Room (Yuanxiang Pavilion):Divided into upper berth (economical and comfortable) and lower berth (easy to move around), no private bathroom, an affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers.
🏨 Ground Accommodation Arrangements
The special train does not stay on board the entire journey. Stays at boutique hotels in cities along the route are arranged, allowing you to better experience local culture and get more adequate rest.
✨ III. Travel Quality and Service Highlights
🛡 ️ Focus on Middle-Aged and Elderly Slow Travel
The special train is designed with the needs of middle-aged and elderly travelers fully in mind. The itinerary is well-paced, avoiding rushed “herding” schedules, and professional accompanying service staff are provided.
🧳 Luggage Stays on Board, Effortless and Worry-Free
With the “night travel, day sightseeing” model, you only need to pack once at departure, and there is no need to repack throughout the journey. Large luggage can be stored in the sleeper carriage for convenience.
🍽 ️ Reasonable Meal Arrangements
Most days of the itinerary include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, mainly group meals that balance local flavors and nutritional needs, saving you the hassle of deciding “what to eat.”
🏞 ️ Immersive Scenic Viewing Experience
During the day, the train stops at scenic stations where you can get off for a short walk on the platform or nearby, enjoying the mountains and rivers outside the window and the pleasure of a “moving observation deck.”
🗺 ️ IV. Sample Itinerary for the Xiaoxiang Special Train
Warm Reminder
The train’s operating route, stops, and arrival times are for reference only. The final itinerary is subject to the official departure notice.
D1: Board the special train at Guangzhou Baiyun Station at approximately 23:40, passing through Changsha, Wuchang, Xinyang, Xi’an, Lanzhou, and other places en route to beautiful Xinjiang, officially beginning the magnificent panoramic journey through the Western Regions.
Meals:No meals included for the day
🚂 I. Detailed Introduction to the Xiaoxiang Special TrainAccommodation:Southern Special Train
D2: The special train continues westward with scenic views along the way. Reference stops:Changsha 10:00, Wuchang 15:00, Xinyang 18:30, Zhengzhou 23:58, enjoying the gradual change of landscapes along the journey.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D3: The special train continues its leisurely scenic journey. Reference stops:Xi’an 10:12, Lanzhou 19:49, gradually heading deeper into the Western Regions and experiencing the differences in scenery between north and south.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D4: The special train arrives in Hami in the afternoon. Visit the Dahaiday Devil City to explore the majestic Yardang landforms and immerse yourself in the mysterious scenery of the Western Regions.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Hami
D5: Visit the Prince’s Mansion (Huiwangfu), enjoy the intangible cultural heritage performance of the Twelve Muqam, and take the special train to Urumqi in the evening.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Urumqi
D6: Depart from Urumqi, visit Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) at Tianshan Mountain to admire the alpine lake, stroll through the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar to experience rich Western Region folk customs, and take the special train to Beitun in the evening.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D7: Arrive in Beitun in the early morning, head to Kanas Scenic Area for an in-depth visit, encountering pristine and picturesque scenery, and stay overnight in Jadengyu.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Jadengyu
✨ Positioning and BackgroundD8: Depart from Jadengyu, wander through Hemu Ancient Village, admire the colorful danxia landforms of the Five-Colored Beach (Wucaitan), wait for the spectacular sunset, and take the special train from Beitun to Yining in the evening.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D9: Arrive in Yining in the early morning, head to Sayram Lake to encounter the highland sapphire lake scenery, then visit the Nalati Grassland in the sky, enjoying the magnificent grassland views.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Nalati
D10: Explore the Nalati Grassland in depth, then head to Bayanbulak Grassland to admire the Swan Lake scenery and the stunning Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Bayan Town
D11: Depart from Bayan, travel through the highlight section of the Duku Highway, visit the Secret Grand Canyon of Tianshan, arrive in Kuqa, and take the special train to Kashgar in the evening.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Official registration channel: Manager Mai Zi of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center, available 24 hours for consultation and registration. Company landline: 0991-3333832, mobile and WeChat: 132-0133-3409.
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D12: Depart from Kashgar and head into the Pamir Plateau, visiting Karakul Lake, the Stone City, and the Golden Grassland, staying overnight in Tashkurgan County.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Tashkurgan County
D13: Depart from Tashkurgan, visit local ethnic families to experience rich local folk customs, admire the stunning scenery of Baisha Lake, and return to Kashgar city.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Kashgar
D14: Stroll through the old city of Kashgar, visit Id Kah Mosque, explore Fragrant Concubine Garden, and deeply appreciate the cultural heritage of this thousand-year-old city. Take the special train to Korla in the evening.
The “Xiaoxiang” is the “Southern Train · Xiaoxiang” special tourist train launched by China Railway Guangzhou, positioned as a long-distance leisure slow-travel special train. It is designed for tourists who wish to explore Xinjiang in depth in one trip, especially suitable for middle-aged and elderly travelers and family trips.Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D15: Depart from Korla, visit the Lop Nur Village and Bosten Lake, experiencing the unique desert water town and ancient folk customs of southern Xinjiang.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Korla
D16: Board the special train at Korla Station in the early morning, officially beginning the return journey, enjoying the scenery leisurely along the way.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D17: The special train returns with scenic views along the way. Reference stops:Lanzhou 8:51, Chongqing North 21:08, enjoying the landscapes along the journey.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Southern Special Train
D18: Return route reference stops:Xiangtan 10:14, Zhuzhou 11:08, arriving at Guangzhou Baiyun Station at 19:40. Passengers may get off at the nearest stop, concluding the journey and returning to their warm homes.
Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Accommodation:Warm Home
The above itinerary time points are for reference only. The actual itinerary may vary due to weather, sightseeing time, and other factors. The actual itinerary on the day shall prevail.
💰 V. 2026 Xiaoxiang Special Train Departure Dates and Prices
Limited Annual Departures
Only 6 exclusive departures are recommended throughout the year — limited spots, and if you miss them, you’ll have to wait another year! Departure dates:May 10, May 30, June 22, July 11, August 19, September 19
Special Train Room Types & Per-Person Prices
🛏️ “Night Travel, Day Sightseeing” mode — choose the room type as needed. The entire journey features special train sleepers paired with local boutique hotels, making travel comfortable and worry-free.
Xiaoxiang Suite (Premium Room Type):With private bathroom, accommodates 2-3 people, private and premium ｜ 62,999 RMB/person
Zhengxiang Courtyard 2-Bed Room:Comfortable standard room, no private bathroom ｜ 45,999 RMB/person
Zhengxiang Courtyard 4-Bed Room:High cost-performance option, no private bathroom ｜ 42,999 RMB/person
Yuanxiang Pavilion 4-Bed Room, Upper Berth:Economical and comfortable, no private bathroom ｜ 17,999 RMB/person
Yuanxiang Pavilion 4-Bed Room, Lower Berth:Economical and comfortable, no private bathroom ｜ 19,999 RMB/person
Price Notes
The above are reference prices for 2026. Actual prices may fluctuate due to season, berth supply and demand, and other factors. Please refer to the contract signed with the travel agency for the final price.
📞 VI. How to Book the Xiaoxiang Special Train
If you want to ride the Xiaoxiang, here is your ticket booking guide.
Xiaoxiang-related tourism products are not sold separately on the 12306 platform. You can contact Manager Mai Zi of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center to learn about product schedules, itineraries, and complete your booking.
The booking process is as follows:
1. Contact and Consult: Manager Mai Zi of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center is available 24 hours for consultation and registration. Company landline: 0991-3333832, mobile and WeChat: 132-0133-3409. Learn about the detailed itinerary, seat room types, reference prices, and departure schedules of the Xiaoxiang Special Train.
2. Choose Your Travel Product: Based on your available time and travel preferences, select the appropriate departure date and special train seat room type.
3. Submit Personal Information: Provide the names of travelers, valid document numbers (including Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan travel permits, passports, etc.) for travel registration and seat reservation.
4. Complete Booking Procedures: Pay the travel booking deposit according to the travel agency’s requirements, receive the payment receipt, and sign the unified electronic tourism service supervision contract to complete the booking process.
From June to September each year, travel demand is high, and seats on popular long-distance special train routes are in short supply. It is recommended to check the itinerary schedule as early as possible and pay a deposit to secure your preferred seat. Bookings can be made through Manager Mai Zi of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center. Pay attention to various travel information online, carefully identify non-official channels, and protect your travel rights.
📋 VII. Cost and Service Notes for the Xiaoxiang Special Train
The services included in the Xiaoxiang itinerary are arranged according to unified standards, including transportation, basic accommodation, sightseeing support, and other related services within the itinerary. Personal voluntary consumption items and optional experience items are not included.
Night Travel: The train runs while you rest. You simply sleep through the night and wake up at a new destination.All itinerary service details, fee standards, and included rights are subject to the terms agreed upon in the signed contract. All travel-related rights and fees are subject to actual consultation and contract signing. For more details, please contact customer service for a detailed explanation.
🚇 VIII. How to Use the “Xiaoxiang Card” to Take the Changsha Metro
The “Xiaoxiang Card” is a transportation card issued by Hunan Province that can be used conveniently to take the metro and buses in Changsha.
1. Supported Card Types
Physical Cards:Xiaoxiang Card, bus cards, and intercity transportation cards with the “China T-Union” logo.
Mobile NFC:Huawei phone users can activate the “Xiaoxiang Card” e-card in the “Huawei Wallet” app.
Mobile QR Code Scanning:Use the “Changsha Metro” app, “Xiangxing Yikatong” app, “Alipay,” or “WeChat” (“City Pass” mini-program) to scan QR codes for travel.
2. Travel Steps (Using QR Code Scanning as an Example)
First-Time Use:Activate the QR code function in the corresponding app and link a payment method.
Entering the Station:Align the QR code with the scanner area on the gate. Once the gate opens, pass through.
Exiting the Station:Scan the QR code again to exit. The system will automatically deduct the fare.
3. Important Notes
One person, one code/card:You must use the same account or the same card/code when entering and exiting the station.
Travel Time Limit:If you stay in the paid area for more than 210 minutes, you may be required to pay the difference at the maximum fare.
Exception Handling:If QR code scanning fails, you can seek assistance at the customer service center or use the app’s self-service exit function.
💌 IX. Conclusion:One Booking, a Panoramic Journey Through Northern and Southern Xinjiang
By now, we believe you have a clear understanding of how to book the “Xiaoxiang” special train and how to use the “Xiaoxiang Card” for the metro.
If you long for a slow trip combining “train + Xinjiang,” why not start by booking a ticket on the “Xiaoxiang” special train? To learn about the latest 2026 schedules, room types, and prices, or to ask about more ways to use the “Xiaoxiang Card,” feel free to contact Manager Mai Zi of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center at any time.
24-Hour Consultation and Registration:132-0133-3409 (same as WeChat)
Company Landline:0991-3333832
We wish you a smooth journey on this panoramic tour of northern and southern Xinjiang, and may you create wonderful memories both inside and outside the train window. 🏞️
The 2026 Xiaoxiang Special Train must be booked through the railway-designated professional and official channel — Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service · Special Train Center. It cannot be booked directly through platforms such as 12306. Official registration channel: Manager Mai Zi of the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service Special Train Center, available 24 hours for consultation and registration. Company landline: 0991-3333832, mobile and WeChat: 132-0133-3409.
