A new 14-day rail adventure through Southeast Asia and China is set to offer travellers an immersive, slow-travel alternative to the usual flight-hopping across the region. Launching in April 2026, the Treasures of the East journey links Vietnam and China by luxury train, combining lantern-lit towns, tea-covered hills and modern skylines in one fluid, overland experience.
The journey begins in Ho Chi Minh City, where guests board a new Indochine-inspired train designed with elegant ensuite cabins and a relaxed onboard atmosphere. From there, the route winds north through Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, tracing a rich thread of history, cuisine and craft through Vietnam’s most atmospheric landscapes.
Across the border, a change of train marks a shift in pace and scenery. The next chapter unfolds in China, where guests continue aboard a second luxury train through cultural centres like Guilin and Wuyishan, ending in Shanghai, a city that blends the ancient and futuristic with effortless style.
Highlights along the way include:
- Speedboat ride to the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City
- Jeep safari through Ninh Binh’s limestone valleys
- Private overnight Ha Long Bay cruise
- Tea culture experience in the Wuyi Mountains
- Hands-on porcelain workshop in a historic kiln town
- Lijiang River cruise past Guilin’s karst peaks
- Afternoon tea in the Shanghai Tower
- Private sunset yacht cruise on the Huangpu River
While the journey spans multiple regions and landscapes, it’s united by a focus on deep cultural immersion and thoughtful pacing. Each stop offers curated off-train experiences – from local market tastings to art, craft and natural heritage – all with expert guides and minimal crowds.
Travel is fully inclusive, with ensuite cabin accommodation, fine dining onboard, drinks, guided excursions, gratuities, pre- and post-tour hotels and even an onboard medical doctor.
The journey is operated by Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, known for its fully inclusive, small-group rail expeditions across Europe, Central Asia and India. With over 35 years of experience, Golden Eagle blends elegant onboard comfort with deep cultural access in regions often overlooked by mainstream travel.
Departs: April 2026
Duration: 14 days
Route: Ho Chi Minh City to Shanghai via Hoi An, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Guilin, Wuyishan and more
More information: goldeneagleluxurytrains.com
