"This train is a bridge connecting my school with the fields," said Sun, who is planning to write a livestock breeding manual to distribute for free on the train, benefiting his fellow villagers.

Despite the ongoing dominance of high-speed and bullet trains, Shanxi still maintains four pairs of public welfare "slow trains". Nationwide, there are 81 such pairs, covering 21 provinces and stopping at over 530 stations, with fares costing less than one cent per km. Over the past 35 years, the 8818/8817 has evolved from a steam locomotive to a diesel engine, with modern 25G air-conditioned cars that have served nearly 20 million passengers.

"Every school season and holiday, our train is packed with students," said Hou Jie, Party secretary of the Beijing-Tianjin train team of the Taiyuan passenger transport section, which manages the 8818/8817.

"Our train carries the emotions of many people. Children have ridden this train from village schools to middle schools and then to universities across the country. The slow train has witnessed the educational journeys of generations."

Hou noted the train passes near historical sites like the Battle of Pingxingguan (1937) and the Battle of Xinkou (1937), making it a moving "Red tourism" train. And as Shanxi's cultural tourism industry continues to heat up, with increasing interest in ancient architecture and cultural tours, more passengers are boarding the train to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Taihang Mountains.

Yang Guoli, 50, an attendant from the Taiyuan Railway Vehicle Depot, ensures passenger safety by meticulously inspecting key components before each journey. "Many travelers choose the slow train to savor the picturesque landscapes of Shanxi and experience the charm of rural culture," Yang said.

"As railway workers, we are committed to ensuring safety and providing excellent service. This train injects lasting vitality into the rural areas along its route."

Sun Hao contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at zhuxingxin@chinadaily.com.cn