SRT Royal Blossom: A New Chapter for Thai Railway Tourism
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has unveiled its newest tourist train, the SRT Royal Blossom. The train is a set of five refurbished Hamanasu cars, originally from Japan, that have been transformed into a luxurious and comfortable travel experience.
The name “Royal Blossom” symbolizes the blossoming of Thai railway tourism and the growth of SRT. The exterior of the cars is painted in a cherry red color with gold accents, while the interior features plush velvet seats, cedar wood accents, and large windows for panoramic views.
The SRT Royal Blossom will initially operate on short-haul routes, such as day trips to Chachoengsao, Kanchanaburi, Hua Hin, and Khao Pra Sak Dam in Lopburi. The train will also be available for charter and special events.
Features of the SRT Royal Blossom:
* Five cars:
* Group Car: 1 car with 4 private rooms for 4-6 people each
* Passenger Car: 3 cars with 48 seats each, some of which can be rotated to face each other
* Leisure Car: 1 car with a bar and lounge area
* Amenities:
* USB ports at every seat
* Large windows for panoramic views
* Wheelchair accessibility
* Onboard catering
History of the Hamanasu cars:
The Hamanasu cars were built in 1988 and originally operated as the Hamanasu Express in Japan, connecting Hokkaido and Honshu. They were retired from service in 2016 and were purchased by SRT in 2017.
The SRT Royal Blossom is a significant development for Thai railway tourism. It offers a unique and luxurious travel experience that is sure to appeal to both domestic and international tourists.
Source: Daily News
