Jianshui Old Train

In 2015, Yunnan province saw the launch of an excursion train known as Jianshui Old Train (or, more specifically, Jianshui Old City Small Train). The train departs from Lin’an Station in Jianshui and rolls leisurely by expansive farms, folk houses, and mythic themed bridges.

The train’s attraction is not just its unabashed yellow color or potential distant relation to Thomas the Tank Engine. The sightseeing activity is especially remarkable because it weaves along on a rare meter-gauge track. For those unversed in train chat, this refers to the width between the inside edges of the rails. Meter-gauge tracks are common in areas with limited space—as they allow for tighter turns— and also for smaller heritage railways in scenic landscapes.

Both reasons make it ideal for Jianshui Old City Small Train, which covers narrow terrain with agility and moves at a pace that allows for stops and snaps at stunning spots like the Double Dragon Bridge, a seventeen-arch wonder that spans at the confluence of two rivers. The rivers zigzag in fierce, stunning fashion, like two dragons eternally swerving in battle though they never employ their fire-breath, at least when Thomas & Friends are passing through.

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