The New Orient Express enters 2026 in its third generation: 18 cars carrying around 186 guests, with every cabin given a separate wet and dry bathroom and a smart toilet. Public areas include a dome star-themed dining car, a kitchen-living car, a bar and entertainment car, and a panoramic sightseeing car.
Cabins and fares
Gold diamond cabins start from about RMB 58,999 per person on the flagship Snow Lotus route, with top suites around RMB 65,999 and up. Blue diamond cabins are quoted on enquiry and vary by season.
How far ahead to book
Gold diamond cabins commonly sell out 12 months ahead, and blue diamond cabins around 6 months ahead. The train runs mainly from March to October, peaking from May to September.
Source: China Expresses research, 2026. See the New Orient Express page and the booking guide.