As part of its 45th anniversary celebrations, Hong Kong’s railway operator has introduced a train designed to mimic the city’s original 1979 carriages. The special event drew around 1,400 residents and railway enthusiasts who eagerly boarded the retro-themed train last Saturday.
At precisely 10:45 a.m., a crowd of eager fans, equipped with cameras, surged onto the train at Choi Hung station. The train, distinguished by a distinctive red stripe on its white front, featured interiors inspired by the original 1979 designs. Visitors were treated to vintage elements such as ball-shaped hand straps, orange-yellow ceilings, and soft amber lighting, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of decades past.
Many attendees brought along cherished railway memorabilia, while families used the occasion to teach children about the history of the city’s rail system. For younger visitors, this was a unique opportunity to step into a train modeled after the first-generation carriages constructed by a British manufacturer that ceased operations in 2005. These original designs had disappeared following a modernization phase by the MTR Corporation between 1997 and 2001.
A young railway enthusiast in his twenties, accompanied by friends, was among the first to experience the retro ride. Not having been born when the original carriages were retired, he expressed his excitement at being able to relive a piece of Hong Kong’s transportation history from the 1970s and 1980s. He joyfully remarked on the significance of the event, noting that this was the first time in decades that a ‘white front’ train had been available for public viewing.
After an hour on display, the train departed Choi Hung station at noon, heading towards Tiu Keng Leng. It is set to operate on several urban lines, including the Kwun Tong, Island, Tseung Kwan O, and Tsuen Wan lines, until the end of the year as a tribute to the MTR’s 45-year legacy.
Among the visitors was an educator who took the opportunity to sketch scenes of the event. Though not a dedicated railway enthusiast, he aimed to capture the joy and nostalgia of the fans. Reflecting on the atmosphere, he noted that the event evoked memories of a more vibrant era in Hong Kong, contrasting with the typically subdued mood of modern commuters.
An artist in his mid-fifties brought along a vintage newspaper clipping from the MTR’s launch on October 1, 1979. Recalling his own experience of taking the first train with his father on that historic day, he shared fond memories of unique features like the ball-shaped hand straps, which had long been phased out.
A collector of railway memorabilia showcased items such as an old MTR entry gate panel and signage from the first-generation carriages. Expressing his delight at the refurbishment, he emphasized the potential of these historical trains to draw enthusiasts from around the globe, highlighting the event’s success in attracting both locals and tourists alike.
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