Beijing Railway Station buzzed with nostalgia as a CGTN Radio reporter caught up with former staff and passengers of the now-retired K3 international train. For decades, this iron artery connected the Chinese mainland capital with Moscow, journeying through mountains, plains, and time zones.
A former attendant remembers greeting travelers with steaming buns and warm smiles, while others recall impromptu sing-alongs in the dining car that transcended language barriers. Many highlight the thrill of crossing custom checkpoints together, forging friendships over shared instant noodles and card games.
Though the K3 train has retired, its legacy lives on in these stories of connection. Travelers describe panoramic views shifting from the Great Wall foothills to the snow covered plains outside Moscow, reminding us that friendship can flourish in the most unexpected places.
As modern high-speed links reshape global rail travel, the K3/4 line reminds us that journeys are more than distances; they are human bridges. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, these tales highlight the power of shared experience to weave lasting bonds across borders.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com