Left: A panoramic sightseeing mountain tourist train in Lijiang, Yunnan, on Wednesday. Right: A passenger on the train takes pictures of the scenery outside. YANG ZHENGONG/FOR CHINA DAILY

The world's first panoramic sightseeing mountain tourist train began operating on Wednesday in Lijiang, a popular tourist destination in Yunnan province.

The train, independently developed by Chinese railway companies, runs at a maximum speed of 70 kilometers per hour and can transport passengers to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in about 35 minutes, according to local media.

The 20.7-km sightseeing route connects Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO-listed world cultural heritage site, with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a top-rated tourist attraction. Along the way, passengers can enjoy views of snow-capped peaks, crystalclear waters and dramatic canyons. Intermediate stops include Baisha Ancient Town, Yushui Village, Dongba Valley and Ganhaizi Meadow.

"To enhance passengers' experience, the train's side windows are made of 1.9-meter-long, color-changing class that are electrically adjustable. They not only provide a better panoramic view, but also protect against high-altitude ultraviolet rays," said Yang Jian, chairman of Lijiang Snow Mountain Rail Transit Co, which oversaw the train's construction.

Zhong Ya, a university student majoring in rail transit who was among the passengers on the train's first ride, said she enjoyed its slow pace.

"This train ride is different," Zhong said. "Other trains usually rush to the destination, but the snow mountain sightseeing train travels slowly, allowing passengers to appreciate the scenery along the way. The train has very large windows, and the views outside are spectacular."

During the initial operation period, a one-way ticket costs 50 yuan ($7), while a round-trip ticket is priced at 80 yuan. Discounts or free rides are available for children, active-duty military personnel, firefighters, rescue workers, the disabled and tour guides.

Led by China Railway Eryuan Engineering Group, the rail project faced various challenges. Workers had to handle the plateau's fragile ecological environment and endure its complex mountainous climate and steep slopes while meeting high standards for route alignment through scenic landscapes.

Designed with energy efficiency in mind, the project is expected to save nearly 2.7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 1,500 metric tons, according to the company.

The company estimates the train will carry about 45,500 passengers per day, helping boost local tourism and economic growth.