Happiness Train spreads human values and promotes Vietnam tourism
Vietnam’s “Happiness Train” departed Hanoi on February 2, turning a regular rail journey into a moving cultural space that promotes shared values, social connection and national tourism ahead of Tet.
THE HANOI TIMES — Chuyen Tau Hanh Phuc (The Happiness Train), a cultural-themed North–South service designed to spread joy, pride and connection ahead of Tet, officially departed Hanoi Station on February 2, carrying national symbols and the emblem of Nhan Dan (People) Newspaper.
Delegates take part in the launch ceremony of the “Happiness Train”. Photos: Nhan Dan Newspaper
The train operates not only as a means of transport but as a mobile cultural space showcasing Vietnamese identity, people, cuisine and regions to domestic passengers and international visitors.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Le Quoc Minh, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan Newspaper, emphasized that the train is not merely a means of transport but a mobile cultural space.
Each carriage tells a story of people, regions, cuisine and Vietnamese identity, helping to spread the image of the country, its people and its tourism to both domestic passengers and international visitors.
“The train aims to rekindle trust, pride and a joyful spirit across society, reminding people that happiness often begins with the simplest things,” Minh said.
Nguyen Quoc Vuong, Deputy General Director of the Vietnam Railways Corporation, said the journey strengthens the connection between the railway sector and the public while spreading positive values across communities nationwide.
Nguyen Trinh Thuy Trang, Deputy General Director of Coteccons Construction JSC, said joining the program allows the company to extend the spirit of builders beyond construction, fostering lasting connections among people, infrastructure and the future.
Le Quoc Minh, Editor in Chief of Nhan Dan Newspaper, presents gifts to passengers aboard the Happiness Train.
She said the train’s new look reflects the dedication of railway workers, close coordination among partners and Coteccons’ commitment to community contribution.
On its inaugural trip, passengers were welcomed with 100 gift packages prepared by the train operator, adding to the festive Tet atmosphere on board.
Passenger Nguyen Van Hung said traveling home on the Happiness Train ahead of Tet (Lunar New Year) feels warmer and more uplifting.
For his family, the trip marked both a reunion journey and a memorable experience.
Traveling to Nghe An Province, Nguyen Thu Ha said she has never experienced such a warmly decorated train despite frequent rail travel.
The atmosphere makes the Tet journey feel lighter and more joyful, helping young people better appreciate family reunion, she said.
The journey links the North and the South, brings the railway sector closer to the public and spreads positive values through the community.
“This train brings warmth and happiness from the moment I step on board,” Ha said.
John Miller, a visitor from Australia, said passengers and the staff are friendly and the atmosphere cheerful.
He said receiving small gifts from staff makes the journey more memorable and he plans to share the experience with his family back home.
In addition to the February 2 departure, the Happiness Train will operate again on Lunar New Year’s Eve on February 16, creating a shared space for New Year wishes, festive moments and collective joy.
Passengers on that service will receive lucky money envelopes from the organizers.
The Happiness Train operates as service SE5 on the North-South route, departing Hanoi at 8:55 AM daily and arriving at Saigon Station at about 6:40 PM the following day.
