'Peony express' delivers visitors across Shandong to floral showcase

China Railway Jinan Group has launched a themed "peony express" service as the 2026 World Peony Conference and the 35th Heze International Peony Cultural Tourism Festival get underway, offering travelers a convenient way to enjoy the peak bloom season.

Operating from April 10 to May 10, the train connects key cities across Shandong, providing a seamless travel experience during the spring tourism period. A highlight is the C665 circular route, which departs daily from Jinan and passes through Tai'an, Jining, Heze, and Liaocheng before returning the same day, making it ideal for short trips to experience the diverse spring scenery of the province.

Designed as a "mobile cultural lounge", the train features peony-themed decorations, including paper-cutting artworks and floral displays. Passengers can sample Heze specialties such as peony flower cakes and tea, while also enjoying live demonstrations of traditional crafts like paper-cutting and dough sculptures.

Peony-themed window art greets passengers aboard the C665 circular route. [Photo/WeChat account: China Railway Jinan Group]

Passengers can savor peony tea, a signature treat served in the themed dining carriage. [Photo/WeChat account: China Railway Jinan Group]