The 2026 season of the New Orient Express is officially rolling in Xinjiang. 52 travelers have departed Urumqi on a luxury train adventure through Kashi, Korla, and Altay region. With starry sky-themed dining cars, cultural workshops like jewelry making and mulberry paper rubbing, and medical staff on board to care for its mostly elderly guests, this high-end ride is redefining slow travel. Xinjiang railway authorities plan 100 tourist trains this year, including 35 of these premium New Orient Express journeys.