Since 1999 when it first appeared, the Express has been one of the most influential tourist trains on the Silk Road. For more than 2 decades, the train has provided tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world with a comfortable, safe and fast experience while they are visiting different parts of China and the Silk Road.
So, why the Oriental Express?
Luxury Design
To make your experience on the train more enjoyable, in 2020, the line was upgraded, with 8 Gold Diamond boxes, 10 Blue Diamond boxes, and 7 Silver Diamond boxes; and in 2025, the Express has been upgraded again. Apart from that, all the facilities inside are of high quality.
Gold Diamond Box
The Gold Diamond Box are only armed with luxury suites.
Step into the suites, where every detail whispers sophistication. Each of the four lavishly appointed suites inside—shared by two guests—spans 10 square meters of curated elegance, designed to rival the world's most exclusive retreats. Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows frame the Silk Road's ever-changing vistas, while handcrafted, king-sized mattresses (1.5mx2m), swathed in 1,000-thread-count Egyptian linens, promise nights of celestial comfort. The suites boast bespoke walnut wood furnishings, including a polished writing desk and a walk-in closet lined with Italian leather. Unwind in your private spa-inspired sanctuary: a marble-clad bathroom featuring a dual rainfall steam shower, heated floors, and gold-plated fixtures. A plush velvet sofa, positioned to capture the sunrise over desert dunes, completes this haven of indulgence.
Sliver Diamond Box
The Sliver Diamond Box gives multiple choices: Presidential Signature Suite, Executive Deluxe Room, Luxury Quad Chamber. And also it will never disappoint you with the facilities inside.
Spacious retreats for families or groups, blending four ergonomic sleeper pods with a lounge area adorned in Murano glass accents. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite golden-hour light to dance across handwoven Tibetan rugs, while a shared marble wellness spa—with a heated bidet, steam shower, and artisanal bath amenities—offers privacy for couples or close companions. Exclusive sanctuaries for solo adventurers, featuring bespoke, hand-carved oak beds draped in Italian silk linens. From the onyx-tiled communal lounge to the crystal chandelier-lit corridors, the Silver Diamond experience is a masterclass in refined travel.
Dining Box
Step into the gourmet dining box, a realm where artistry and indulgence converge. Bathed in the warm glow of crystal chandeliers, the space exudes timeless elegance with its hand-carved ebony tables adorned with Italian linens, 24-karat gold-plated cutlery, and bespoke porcelain tableware painted with motifs of the Silk Road. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame ever-changing vistas, transforming every meal into a cinematic experience.
The open kitchen, encased in onyx marble, allows guests to witness master chefs crafting Michelin-inspired dishes—think truffle-infused Peking duck paired with Xinjiang saffron rice, or lobster dumplings served atop hand-painted jade plates. A curated wine cellar, embedded within a backlit glass wall, houses rare vintages from Bordeaux to Ningxia, personally selected by a resident sommelier.
Bar Box
The Bar Box is a sanctuary of refinement, its walls draped in silk brocade and accented with mother-of-pearl inlays. Sink into hand-stitched leather armchairs as mixologists craft bespoke cocktails using aged cognacs, single-malt whiskeys, and rare teas sourced from Himalayan estates. The centerpiece—a black granite countertop illuminated by underlit amber glass—showcases a collection of gold-leafed glassware and hand-blown crystal decanters.
By night, the bar transforms into an intimate jazz lounge, with a grand piano and live performances under a starlit LED ceiling.
Karaoke Box
Designed for discerning guests, the box features soundproof private suites adorned with hand-stitched leather seating, shimmering crystal accents, and ambient LED lighting that shifts to match your mood. State-of-the-art surround sound systems deliver studio-quality acoustics, while a 24K gold-plated touchscreen interface offers access to a global music library spanning classics to contemporary hits.
Every detail, from the velvet-draped walls to the personalized song dedications displayed on a vintage-style marquee, ensures an unforgettable auditory indulgence.
Topnotch Travel Experience
Embarking on the Orient Express has been nothing short of stepping into a living time capsule, where the golden age of travel is resurrected with modern elegance.
Amazing Dining
Onboard, each dish is crafted by master chefs using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, with menus thoughtfully curated to reflect the regional flavors of the Silk Road. From the delicate dim sum of the south to the bold, aromatic spices of Xinjiang, every meal is an exploration of China's rich culinary heritage.
But the indulgence doesn't end on the train. Savor a traditional Uyghur feast in Kashgar, where succulent lamb kebabs and hand-pulled noodles are served under the shade of grapevines. In Dunhuang, enjoy a Silk Road-inspired banquet featuring delicate dumplings and fragrant teas. In Turpan, the“Land of Grapes,” indulge in a vineyard dinner paired with locally produced wines.
Luxury Accommodation
The Express invites you to retreat into a world of serenity and indulgence with its thoughtfully curated range of accommodations. Whether you choose a cozy private cabin or an opulent suite, each space is designed to cradle you in absolute comfort.
Imagine sinking into plush, cloud-like bedding draped in the finest linens, as the gentle rhythm of the train lulls you into a deep, restorative slumber. Every detail is crafted to cocoon you in tranquility, allowing you to awaken refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to embrace the day's adventures. Here, your journey is not just about the destination—it's about the blissful moments of peace and luxury that accompany you every step of the way.
Enjoyable Entertainment
As the train glides through stunning landscapes, passengers are treated to an array of live music performances, where traditional Chinese instruments like the guzheng and erhu fill the air with melodies that echo the soul of the Silk Road.
Evenings come alive with cultural shows, featuring vibrant folk dances and storytelling that bring ancient legends to life.
For those seeking deeper insights, expert-led lectures and interactive workshops delve into the rich tapestry of Chinese history, art, and traditions. Every activity is thoughtfully curated to enrich your journey, ensuring that each day aboard the train is as enlightening as it is enchanting.
Sightseeing Feast
The Express takes you on a mesmerizing journey through some of China's most awe-inspiring natural wonders and culturally rich destinations. Each route is carefully curated to offer a harmonious blend of scenic beauty and historical significance, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
You'll unveil the pristine beauty of Kanas Lake, a mirror-like expanse surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks, often referred to as a "fairyland on earth, or be captivated by the ancient charm of Kashgar, with its bustling bazaars.
Lingering Memories
As the train glides through majestic landscapes—rolling grasslands, snow-capped peaks, and ancient Silk Road cities—you'll find yourself immersed in a world of wonder. Share laughter and stories with loved ones in the plush lounges, toast to new friendships in the champagne bar, or simply revel in the quiet luxury of your private suite as the world unfolds outside.
But, whether it's the warmth of a shared meal, the thrill of a live cultural performance under the stars, or the quiet joy of watching the sunset, this is more than a journey—it's a celebration of connection, beauty, and love.
With luxury services provided, the China Oriental Express will take you to traverse from the deserts of Dunhuang to the serene Kanas Lake, surprising you with both natural beauty and rich history.
