The Indochina Passage
A Grand Rail Journey Across Vietnam, China & Laos
8 Days / 7 Nights
Hanoi
Ha Long Bay
Guilin
Kunming
Dali
Xishuangbanna
Luang Prabang
Vang Vieng
Vientiane
Day 01 : Arrive Hanoi – Halong Bay
The journey opens in Hanoi, where guests are welcomed into the world of SJourney Asia before travelling toward one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders.
Your journey starts at Gia Lam Railway Station, where the SJourney Asia team welcomes you with seamless check-in and personalized assistance. After boarding formalities, you’ll travel to Ha Long Bay, leaving the city behind as the landscapes of Northern Vietnam unfold along the way.
Board a private day cruise through the breathtaking waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its thousands of limestone islands rising dramatically from emerald waters.
As the cruise glides quietly through hidden coves and majestic karsts, enjoy a leisurely lunch on board and take in one of Southeast Asia’s most extraordinary natural landscapes. This gentle introduction offers the perfect balance of relaxation, scenery, and cultural discovery before your rail adventure continues.
Return to SJourney Asia, where your elegant suite awaits. As the train departs Vietnam and begins its overnight journey toward China, savor your first gourmet dinner on board, accompanied by warm hospitality and the unhurried rhythm that defines life on the rails.
Lunch and Dinner
Overnight onboard Sjourney Train
Day 02 : Guilin
After an overnight journey, SJourney Asia reaches the Vietnam–China border, marking the beginning of a new chapter through Southern China.
In the early morning, the train arrives at Lang Son Railway Station, where the SJourney team assists guests with all immigration and customs procedures, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free border crossing into China. Upon arrival in Guilin, guests visit Jingjiang Princes’ City, a historic royal complex that reflects the city’s rich imperial heritage.
Wander through the charming streets of East West Alley, with time to browse local boutiques, sample regional delicacies, or simply soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. As evening approaches, enjoy a leisurely visit to Two Rivers & Four Lakes, before returning to the comfort of SJourney Asia.
Back on board, unwind over a refined dinner prepared by our culinary team as the train quietly departs Guilin, continuing its overnight journey toward Kunming.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight onboard Sjourney Train
Day 03 : Kunming (China)
Surrounded by the highlands of Yunnan, Kunming offers a slower pace of discovery, where tranquil temples, leafy parks, and historic streets reveal the city’s distinctive character.
Begin the day at Yuantong Temple, one of Kunming’s most revered Buddhist temples, before taking a leisurely stroll through Cuihu Park, where locals gather for morning activities amidst peaceful lakes and traditional pavilions. Throughout the visit, your local guide shares the stories and traditions that have shaped the city for centuries.
Continue to Kunming Old Street, where preserved heritage buildings, artisan boutiques, and local cafés reflect the city’s unique blend of history and contemporary life. A specially arranged lunch awaits in a traditional heritage residence, offering an authentic taste of Yunnan cuisine in an intimate setting.
As the day draws to a close, enjoy a curated cultural performance celebrating the traditions of Yunnan before returning to the comfort of the train. Dinner is served on board as the train departs for its overnight journey toward Dali.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight onboard Sjourney Train
Day 04 : Dali (China)
Nestled between the Cangshan Mountains and the tranquil waters of Erhai Lake, Dali offers a slower pace of travel, where natural beauty and Bai heritage create one of Yunnan’s most captivating destinations.
Begin the day with a visit to the iconic Three Pagodas, a symbol of Dali’s rich Buddhist heritage, before continuing to the shores of Erhai Lake. Take in the peaceful scenery and enjoy time to appreciate one of Yunnan’s most picturesque landscapes.
A carefully selected local restaurant showcases the distinctive flavours of Yunnan cuisine before guests continue to Dali Ancient Town. Wander through its cobbled streets, traditional Bai architecture, artisan boutiques, and lively cafés, with ample time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Guests return to the train and settle in for the overnight journey south toward Xishuangbanna.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight onboard Sjourney Train
Day 05 : Xishuangbanna (China)
Today, the journey enters the tropical landscapes of Xishuangbanna, where the cultures of China and Southeast Asia blend seamlessly, marking another distinctive chapter of The Indochina Passage.
After breakfast on board, guests set out for a curated half-day exploration, discovering the unique atmosphere of Xishuangbanna through its lush surroundings, vibrant ethnic culture, and relaxed pace. Throughout the visit, local guides provide insights into the region’s rich traditions and cross-cultural influences.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant before continuing the journey south. As the landscapes gradually transform, guests return to SJourney Asia and settle back into the comfort of the train while travelling toward Laos.
The evening is spent in transit, with guests relaxing on board as the overnight journey continues toward Luang Prabang.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight onboard Sjourney Train
Day 06 : Luang Prabang (China)
A UNESCO World Heritage city, Luang Prabang invites guests to experience the timeless beauty of Laos through its royal heritage, sacred temples, and enduring local traditions.
Begin the day with a guided exploration of the Royal Palace Museum, followed by visits to Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Visoun, where expert local guides provide insight into the history, spirituality, and cultural traditions that continue to shape Luang Prabang today.
Continue to Ban Xang Khong Village, where guests meet local artisans and discover traditional handmade crafts that have been passed down through generations. The relaxed pace offers meaningful opportunities to connect with the local community and experience everyday life beyond the city’s historic centre.
As night falls, enjoy a specially arranged Lao dinner accompanied by a traditional cultural performance before returning to the comfort of SJourney Asia for the final overnight journey.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight onboard Sjourney Train
Day 07 : Vang Vieng (Laos)
Vang Vieng offers a softer final full day, framed by limestone cliffs, riverside scenery and a sense of spacious calm.
Awake to the breathtaking landscapes of Vang Vieng as SJourney Asia arrives. The day begins with a spectacular hot air balloon experience, offering panoramic views of towering limestone karsts, winding rivers, and the lush valley below.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch followed by free time to unwind and embrace the relaxed charm of Vang Vieng before returning to the comfort of SJourney Asia.
The day is reserved for riverside activities and leisure, allowing guests to enjoy the landscape at an unhurried pace before the final evening celebration.
The journey is celebrated with a specially curated Farewell Dinner, where guests gather one last time to reflect on the unforgettable memories shared across Vietnam, China, and Laos. Featuring authentic Lao cuisine and a traditional cultural dance performance, the evening offers a heartfelt and memorable conclusion before returning to SJourney Asia for the final overnight stay on board.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight onboard Sjourney Train
Day 08 : Vientiane (Laos)
The journey concludes in Vientiane, the peaceful capital of Laos, bringing The Indochina Passage to a memorable close after days of discovery across three remarkable countries.
Client will enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as the train makes its final approach to Vientiane.
Upon arrival, you will be assisted with check-out and luggage, ensuring a smooth and comfortable disembarkation.
A private driver will then transfer you to your hotel in Vientiane or Vientiane Wattay International Airport, according to your onward travel arrangements.
Inaugural Departure – 18 March 2027
The rate mentioned is per adult, in USD and Sterling Pounds based on double or twin cabin sharing, unless stated otherwise.
Price include VAT and service fee
The Indochina Passage Fares
For Departure Date : 18 March 2027
| Price in US Dollars ($) | Price in Sterling Pounds (£) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Price for One Person in Single Cabin | Price Per Person in Twin / Double Cabin Sharing basis | Price for One Person in Single Cabin | Price Per Person in Twin / Double Cabin Sharing basis |
| Deluxe Cabin | $ 28,800 | $ 18,000 Per Person | £ 24,000 | £ 15,000 Per Person |
SJ Journey Package Includes:
- Accommodation: 7 nights onboard.
- Dining: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with meals freshly prepared on the train using top-quality local ingredients. Enjoy authentic dining at local restaurants during excursions.
- Beverages: Complimentary soft drinks, beer, and house wine by the glass (as per the drink list) are available daily. Tea and coffee are always available on the train. One complimentary beverage (soft drink, beer, or house wine by the glass) is included with meals during off-train dining.
- Service: Cabin attendant service with evening turndown, experienced tour management team, and private airport/hotel transfers at the start and end of your journey in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Plus, a 45-minute head and shoulder treatment per person per trip.
- Cabin Facilities: Each cabin includes double or twin beds, an en-suite bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink, a safety box, air conditioning, linens, and amenities.
- Excursions: Guided tours with English-speaking local guides and entrance fees included as per the itinerary.
SJourney Package Exclusions:
- Private transfers or any extra transfers outside the program.
- Beverages consumed outside of mealtimes while off the train.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa fees.
- Travel insurance.
- Pre- and post-tour activities.
