'Pandastic' high-speed train ready to take off

Hong Kong's panda craze is picking up speed, thanks to the launch of a panda-themed high-speed rail train by the MTR Corporation. Starting from Saturday, passengers travelling to Shenzhen or Guangzhou will be treated to cartoon illustrations of pandas striking playful poses and indulging in Hong Kong delicacies. Many of the furry creatures are set against iconic Hong Kong landmarks, including the Big Buddha and the Convention and Exhibition Centre. "The [pandas] will act as travel ambassadors," MTR general manager Annie Leung told a media briefing on Wednesday. "[They will] showcase some rich and unique aspects of Hong Kong to the travellers," she said. The launch of the panda-themed high-speed train followed the debut of similar trains on the South Island Line and Airport Express in recent weeks. The trains are part of a broader citywide celebration tied to Ocean Park's giant pandas, which aims to promote local tourism. The newly-adorned train will run for 12 weeks until April 4.