On the Chengdu-Kunming Railway, some trains still run at an average speed of under 40 kilometers per hour. The 376-kilometer journey from Puxiong in the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province to Panzhihua Nan takes 11 hours and 4 minutes, with 26 stops along the way. The ticket prices, which range from 25.5 to 2 yuan, have not changed for more than 30 years.  In today's fast-paced world, it would seem that this train can't keep up. But on the path to happiness, it is not speed that counts the most. The train's low fares have offered many poor villagers a chance at a better life. 

The mountainous area makes traveling by road to engage in economic activity a costly endeavor for many, but not the train. Not only is it cheaper, but its carriage has been modified to carry various cargo essential to the villagers' livelihoods. From chickens and ducks to pigs, sheep and other livestock, villagers can take them on the train to trade around the country.

The slow train is also the "school bus" for children. It is safer and cheaper than taking the long-distance bus. Although the train is slow and the road is long, it does not affect people's yearning for a better life. On this bumpy road, the slow train and its passengers sail to the happy terminal together.