China to boost senior-friendly tourism with specialized trains

China has recently unveiled an action plan to expand and improve senior-friendly tourism train services, in its latest bid to create more inclusive and enjoyable travel experiences for the elderly.

The initiative was jointly issued by nine Chinese government agencies and state-owned enterprises, including the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. It aims to enrich the tourism market, promote services consumption and cater to the growing demand for elderly-friendly travel options. It plans to create a nationwide network of specialized trains catering to older travelers by 2027, with over 100 designed routes and 2,500 scheduled trips annually.

Part of the initiative will include the collection of input from the public to identify demand for senior tourism train services amid efforts to introduce various types of customized travel products.

Two passengers pose for a photo before boarding a tourism train at the Fengtai Railway Station in Beijing. China News Service

Measures will be taken to upgrade the trains to be more age-friendly, green and comfortable, which will also be supported by China’s large-scale equipment upgrade and consumer goods trade-in program, and to develop themed travel routes and products tailored to seniors. These specialized train services will utilize off-peak travel periods to avoid conflicting with regular passenger services, ensuring that the trains operate efficiently without disrupting the broader transportation system.

The action plan also advocates for improved coordination between tourism trains and scenic spots, encouraging local tourist destinations to offer tailored services such as reservations, green channels, transportation connections, and dedicated reception services for senior travelers.

The economic potential of this market is substantial. According to a recent blue paper on China’s silver economy, the sector is currently valued at 7 trillion yuan (US$976 billion), accounting for about 6% of the country’s GDP, with tourism being a key growth area.

Elderly adults in China had amassed wealth totaling 78.4 trillion yuan by 2023, according to the China National Committee on Ageing. And the overall silver economy is projected to reach 30 trillion yuan by 2035, which would represent 10% of China’s GDP. (Xinhua)