Travelers seeking self-driving adventures in Asia now have a game-changing option: China's railway system has launched a summer service transporting private vehicles by train to popular destinations, allowing tourists to skip grueling drives while keeping the freedom of personal exploration.
The innovative program lets travelers send their cars ahead via rail while they journey separately by plane or train. Upon arrival, drivers reunite with their vehicles ready for local road trips. Early adopters like Chongqing resident Zhang Rui praise the service's efficiency. "Driving 2,000 km to Lhasa would take days through challenging terrain," she told KhabarAsia. "Now I save 40% on fuel and lodging while avoiding driver fatigue."
With prices starting at 4,400 yuan ($616) for cross-country transport, the service taps into growing demand for flexible travel solutions. Analysts suggest it could boost regional tourism by making remote destinations like Tibet more accessible to families and time-constrained professionals.
The initiative reflects broader transportation innovations across Asia, where governments are blending infrastructure development with tourism growth strategies. For global travelers planning summer itineraries, this hybrid approach offers new possibilities to experience China's vast landscapes without sacrificing comfort or schedule.
