Published on
November 13, 2025
The first direct tourist train from Hong Kong to Meizhou arrived on November 8, carrying almost 500 passengers on a smooth and effective journey—a noteworthy development that is expected to boost tourism in Guangdong Province. The train service provides a novel and cutting-edge mode of transportation by linking the vibrant city of Hong Kong with the culturally diverse area of Meizhou. This direct link has been established under the broader goal of improving regional tourism integration, eliminating long transfer times, and encouraging cross-border cultural exchanges. It is anticipated that the service will increase awareness of cultural heritage in the Guangdong region, particularly the lively Hakka culture that Meizhou proudly maintains, as well as local tourism.
The Seamless Train Journey: Efficiency and Comfort
The new train service, numbered G6542, departs from Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Station, providing a much-needed direct route to Meizhou, located in the eastern mountainous region of Guangdong. The journey takes approximately two hours and 14 minutes, a remarkably quick time for a route that used to require transfers and multiple modes of transport. For the relatively affordable price of 274 yuan for second-class tickets, passengers are able to enjoy a comfortable ride with scenic views as they travel across the southern Chinese countryside.
The launch of this direct service signifies a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to modernize the transport links between Hong Kong and mainland China. This new connection is expected to make the already-popular tourist destination of Meizhou more accessible and convenient for visitors from Hong Kong and beyond. Tourists can now enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted ride, allowing them to focus more on their destination rather than worrying about long waits or additional travel time.
Meizhou: The Heart of Hakka Culture
Meizhou, located in the eastern part of Guangdong Province, is known as the cultural heartland of the Hakka people. This city, rich in tradition, serves as a major hub for preserving and promoting Hakka customs, language, architecture, and craftsmanship. Meizhou is home to over 4,000 traditional enclosed Hakka Weilong Houses, distinctive architectural structures that are considered a symbol of Hakka culture. These houses have been carefully preserved, attracting scholars, architects, and tourists from around the world to explore their unique design and historical significance.
The region’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage is not just about safeguarding physical structures; it is also about sustaining the Hakka language and arts. Local artisans, craftsmen, and performers in Meizhou continue to practise traditional techniques passed down through generations, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Hakka culture first-hand.
The Themed Tour Routes: A Gateway to Exploration
To complement the introduction of the new train service, local authorities in Meizhou have designed six themed tour routes for visitors. These specially curated routes aim to blend the region’s rich heritage with its natural beauty, culinary delights, and local attractions. The tours are carefully crafted to ensure a comprehensive exploration of the Meizhou region, highlighting the diversity and charm of this historic city.
One of the key elements of these tours is the inclusion of geothermal hot spring resorts. Meizhou’s natural landscape offers an abundance of geothermal resources, and tourists are encouraged to visit these hot springs for relaxation and wellness. These thermal baths are considered therapeutic, and their healing properties have attracted health-conscious visitors for centuries.
The national geological parks located within Meizhou’s eight counties and districts also feature prominently on the themed routes. These parks are home to unique geological formations, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes. Tourists can enjoy hiking, sightseeing, and photography as they explore the natural beauty that this part of Guangdong has to offer.
Additionally, the culinary experiences that Meizhou provides are not to be overlooked. Meizhou is known for its distinctive Hakka cuisine, which includes a variety of traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The themed routes ensure that food lovers will be able to indulge in these local delicacies, including famous dishes such as Hakka-style stuffed tofu, salted pork, and fragrant rice. These authentic flavours offer visitors a true taste of Meizhou’s culinary heritage, complementing the cultural experience with every bite.
Cultural Preservation and Economic Development
The introduction of the direct train service is part of a broader strategy to foster regional tourism integration and cultural preservation. By making Meizhou more accessible to a wider audience, the initiative aims to bring more visitors to the region, promoting both economic development and the safeguarding of traditional cultural practices. The local authorities are keen to strike a balance between modernity and tradition, ensuring that tourism development does not compromise the city’s rich heritage but instead enhances it.
This “rail plus culture” strategy, as it has been dubbed, is an example of how transportation infrastructure can play a vital role in regional tourism development. By connecting major urban centres like Hong Kong with culturally significant destinations like Meizhou, authorities hope to create a thriving tourism ecosystem that benefits both local communities and visitors alike. This initiative also reflects the growing trend of combining modern transportation with cultural exploration, where visitors can enjoy not just a vacation but an immersive cultural experience.
A Promising Future for Meizhou and Guangdong Tourism
The successful launch of the direct train service is expected to serve as a model for future tourism initiatives in other parts of Guangdong Province and China. As transportation links continue to improve and cultural attractions are further developed, the region’s tourism industry is poised for significant growth. Meizhou, with its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and now more convenient access, is set to become a key player in the Guangdong tourism market. The city’s commitment to preserving the Hakka culture while integrating modern tourism infrastructure makes it a unique destination for both domestic and international travellers.
With the new train service as a cornerstone of this development, Meizhou is on its way to becoming one of the most sought-after destinations in southern China. As the city continues to evolve while staying true to its cultural roots, it is likely to attract a steady stream of visitors eager to experience the heart of Hakka culture in a way that is both accessible and enriching.
Conclusion
A new era of travel between Hong Kong and Guangdong has begun with the launch of the first direct tourist train service from Hong Kong to Meizhou, which marks a significant milestone in regional tourism integration. In the center of Hakka culture, the smooth and effective connection between these two cities is only the first step toward economic development and cultural exploration. The region is set for a bright and prosperous future in tourism as it continues to preserve its cultural identity while embracing modern infrastructure. Theme tour routes that highlight Meizhou’s heritage, natural wonders, and culinary traditions offer visitors an experience that is unmatched.
