More Chinese use trains at this time of year than any other. This year, authorities are deploying smarter technologies to make sure passengers enjoy more comfortable journeys home. Our reporter Hu Chao takes a look.

HU CHAO TAIYUAN, SHANXI "Behind me is the Taiyuan Railway Station. It's over 100 years old. Instead of high-speed trains, this station can only receive traditional trains. However, during this spring festival travel period, this old railway station is getting something new. Something that will assist passengers at the station. Follow me and take a look."

HU CHAO TAIYUAN, SHANXI "Her name is Xiao Yuan or Little Yuan. The "Yuan" is the second character of the name of the city of Taiyuan. Xiao Yuan just started to work here two weeks ago. She not only looks cute, but also has many practical uses.

The robot Xiao Yuan now only works in a VIP waiting room. She's able to lead passengers to various places, including the washroom and mobile phone charging areas. By tapping on its screen, people can get a whole range of information. More robots like Xiao Yuan are expected to assist passengers in more waiting rooms in the future.

HU CHAO TAIYUAN, SHANXI "Can you guess where I am? This is an upgraded washroom at this railway station. And look, on this big screen, you can check how many toilets are occupied and how many are available for use. So smart, isn't it?"

This year, it takes no longer than a blink of an eye for passengers to check in, thanks to a new face scanning system that's in place. More phone charging facilities have also been set up in waiting rooms. Air quality is being monitored around the clock, and a new ventilation system works to purify the air and release pleasing aroma. A big data center was also built to provide 3-dimensional monitoring videos. Passenger flow is under surveillance, with the comfort index of the station showing on the screen at all times.

HU CHAO TAIYUAN, SHANXI "Modern technology has brought vitality to the old railway station. It not only makes the journey more convenient, but also more enjoyable. Hu Chao, CGTN, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province."