• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Retirement Travelers

Full-time World Travel Couple

  • About
    • About
    • Contact Us
    • Socials
      • YouTube
      • Instagram
      • Facebook
      • Pinterest
      • LinkedIn
  • Countries
    • Africa
    • Asia
    • Australia and Oceania
    • Caribbean
    • Central America & Mexico
    • Europe
    • North America
    • South America
  • United States
    • Each State
    • National Parks
  • Travel Tips
    • The Best Retirement Travelers Packing List
    • How to Transfer Chase Points to Hyatt | Everything You Need to Know
    • The 26 Amazing Airline Stopover Programs to Use NOW!
  • Videos
    • Travel School Videos
    • 2024 Videos
    • 2023 Videos
    • 2021 Videos
    • 2020 videos
    • 2022 Videos
    • YouTube Shorts
  • Store
    • Travel Products
  • Show Search
Hide Search
Home » The Northern Explorer Train in New Zealand

The Northern Explorer Train in New Zealand

Last Updated: September 19, 2024

Table of Contents

Toggle
  7 Minutes Read
  • All Aboard: From Auckland to Wellington (or vice versa!)
    • We purchased tickets here.
  • Train Stations
    • Papakura
    • Hamilton
    • Otorohanga
    • Taumarunui
    • National Park
    • Ohakune
    • Palmerston North
    • Paraparaumu
    • Wellington
    • For a more detailed guide of Wellington, click here to read more!
    • Check out our video guide of all 3 passenger trains in New Zealand:
  • Best Time to Visit New Zealand
  • Posts from New Zealand:
    • The 5 Best Bucket List Destinations for Retirement Travel
    • Amazing Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand (includes map)
    • Top 10 Incredible New Zealand South Island Boutique Hotels (includes map)
    • 10 Amazing New Zealand North Island Boutique Hotels (includes map)
    • The Top 10 New Zealand South Island Wellness Resorts
    • The 9 Best Attractions in Rotorua, New Zealand

As two people who have experienced this incredible train journey through the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, we are excited to share our insights and tips with you. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about riding the Northern Explorer train, including how to book your tickets, what to expect on board, and the best ways to make the most of each stop along the way. Even if you are a first-time train rider, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan a memorable journey on the Northern Explorer during your retirement travel. New Zealand by rail is a wonderful way to see the country.

Making new friends

You might have high expectations for New Zealand, the tiny country on the edge of the earth famous for rugby, Lord of the Rings, sheep, and Maori culture. The Land of the Long White Cloud will probably exceed all your expectations as you travel by train with hearts full of appreciation for the stunning landscapes, warm Kiwi hospitality, and fantastic cuisine. This was one of our all time favorite trains in the world, so be sure to add it to your travel plans in New Zealand

YouTube player

All Aboard: From Auckland to Wellington (or vice versa!)

Kiwi Rail’s Northern Explorer takes travelers from Auckland to the capital of Wellington. The scenery is wildly diverse for a small country, with green farmland, rustic forests, sandy beaches, and volcanic areas along the way.

The Northern Explorer operates three days a week, Monday, Thursday, and Saturday traveling south and going Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday in the northern direction. Be sure to plan carefully if you hop off at a stop for a couple of days, as the train only passes every two or three days.

We purchased tickets here.

If you choose to take the train the entire distance at one time, be prepared for an eleven-hour journey. The scenery is fabulous but plan on being off the grid as far as wifi and cell service are concerned. This might pose a challenge for some, but we had no problem passing the time!

The meals served aboard the Northern Explorer add to the luxury travel experience. Sip on New Zealand wine and sample local cheese and produce as you admire another jaw-dropping stretch of rugged coastline or green pastures. You might see a farmer looking after his cattle as you stare out of the large panoramic windows listening to the high-tech GPS-triggered audio commentary. The open-air carriage is where you can breathe fresh air and snap some photos of life in NZ.

Train Stations

There are nine stations along this route. The various stops are an inspiring break from chugging along on one of the world’s most gorgeous train trip. You can anticipate a unique experience at every destination. Below is an explanation of each stop after Auckland. Enjoy!

Papakura

Our starting point on the Northern Explorer

Papakura is the first stop on the outskirts of downtown Auckland. Therefore, you can expect a quick stop where additional passengers will board. We boarded at this stop, which was convenient to the airport and had affordable accommodations.

Hamilton

Hamilton station

This is a vibrant university city with the pretty Waikato River flowing through the middle. Often frosty or foggy in the morning but quickly warming up by mid-morning, this city nicknamed The Tron has plenty to see and do. There are riverside walks, gardens, hip cafes, artisan and international shopping, and pumping nightlife, largely thanks to the student population.

If you have time for a day trip, the ultra-trendy beach town of Raglan is an excellent place to hang out and watch surfers ride massive waves. Near Raglan, you can discover the gorgeous cascading Bridal Veils Falls after a short walk through the native forest to the viewing platforms. Then it’s onto Waitomo Caves, where you can take a boat ride to see limestone caves adorned with bright lights of tiny glow worms and then go on an adventurous black water rafting tour along an underground river.

Otorohanga

Otorohanga Station

This is a charming town that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the top things to do is to visit the Waitomo Caves, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The caves are known for the presence of glowworms, and you can take guided tours to explore the caves and learn more about these fascinating creatures.

You can also visit the Kiwi House and Native Bird Park, where you can see kiwi birds up close, along with other native bird species such as the kea and kaka. The park offers a range of interactive exhibits and experiences.

If you enjoy the great outdoors, Otorohanga has many hiking trails. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including a section of the Te Araroa Trail.

You can also explore the Mangapohue Natural Bridge and Marokopa Falls, two nearby sights to see.

Taumarunui

Taumarunui is a small town. It is situated at the confluence of the Ongarue and Whanganui Rivers .

One of the main attractions is the Whanganui National Park. Here you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and rafting. The park is home to the Whanganui River, a very scenic location teaming with wildlife.

In addition to its natural attractions, it is also known for its railway history, and you can take a ride on the Forgotten World Highway rail car.

National Park

National Park Station

Beautiful natural landscapes, including Tongariro National Park and the rugged terrain of the central North Island, surround the station. It is a gateway to the park, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.

The National Park station is a small but well-maintained facility. The station is staffed during the day, and taxi service is usually available to transport visitors to hotels and the surrounding locations.

Ohakune

Ohakune Station

It is proudly known as the carrot capital of New Zealand. It is popular for skiing during winter but also beautiful all year round. Near the active volcano of Mt Ruapehu, this rural town has geothermal springs, horse trekking, fishing, canoeing, and a massive carrot statue.

With Forgotten World Adventures, you can ride in an old rail cart that carries passengers along unused railway lines. They go through old tunnels and over bridges and stop at farms where you can chat with locals about rural life. Your guide will tell heritage stories of what life was like as your cart rattles along the track. They also offer jet boat and helicopter rides if you fancy a more exhilarating mode of transport.

Palmerston North

Palmerston North has several museums including the Te Manawa Museum and the New Zealand Rugby Museum. Both museums are interesting and informative. There are also has several parks and gardens like the Victoria Espanade. It has walking paths, a bird aviary, and a miniature railway. Be sure to visit the Palmerston North Rose Garden which has over 5,000 rose bushes.

Paraparaumu

Paraparaumu area

One of the main attractions in Paraparaumu is its sandy beach. It’s a great place for a stroll along the water’s edge or a surf lesson if you so dare. There is a lovely bird sanctuary, called Kapiti Island Nature Reserve. Here you can see rare and endangered species, such as the little spotted kiwi and the North Island Saddleback.

Paraparaumu has a great foodie scene with its numerous cafes and restaurants. You might also visit the Saturday Market, where you can purchase fresh produce, crafts, and other local treats. Afterward, check out the Southward Car Museum, which features vintage and classic cars.

Wellington

Wellington Railway Station

When you go from Auckland to Wellington, you will arrive at the country’s biggest railway station. It is right by the Beehive and New Zealand parliament buildings, downtown, and waterfront areas.

Spend a few days in Windy Wellington sipping coffee in trendy cafes or riding the cable car. It is also great for roaming the beautiful botanical gardens, and feeding the feisty seagulls on the waterfront. Te Papa Museum is home to an impressive collection of Maori arts and crafts and artifacts. This was one of our favorite museums and we we wished we had more time to spend here. We think you could spend two full days learning about New Zealand and their history. On top of that, it’s free!

For a more detailed guide of Wellington, click here to read more!

Whether you continue your journey to the South Island via the ferry or spend more time on the North, we are confident your rail journey through the heart of the North Island will leave lasting memories. It was one of our favorite experiences.

Check out our video guide of all 3 passenger trains in New Zealand:

YouTube player

Best Time to Visit New Zealand

We have linked a great website to this button showing the weather for this location by the month. Click below to be taken to Weather-and-Climate.com.

Click here!

Posts from New Zealand:

Photos of 5 Bucket List Destinations showing beaches and mountains

The 5 Best Bucket List Destinations for Retirement Travel

Amazing Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand (includes map)

Top 10 Incredible New Zealand South Island Boutique Hotels (includes map)

10 Amazing New Zealand North Island Boutique Hotels (includes map)

The Top 10 New Zealand South Island Wellness Resorts

The 9 Best Attractions in Rotorua, New Zealand

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

As Seen On

Logos of the national media that have featured our channel and site.

About Us

A picture of John & Bev celebrating 100 countries with balloons and champaign.

We’re John & Bev a married, American couple who decided to sell our home and give away our stuff so we could explore the world. Having traveled to over 100 countries, we create travel guides to help show you the way. We hope our tips, maps, details, stories, and recommendations help you travel with confidence and plan a grand adventure of your own. Reach out if you have a question, we’re happy to share our thoughts. Happy Journeys!

Sign up for our newsletter!

* indicates required

Countries We’ve Visited

A map showing where the Retirement Travelers have been.

Click on an icon to join our social media!

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube

Cheap Business Class Tickets

YouTube player
@retirementtravelers
John & Bev Martin

@retirementtravelers

📍 104 Countries - Cruising the Panama Canal 🗺 Traveling the world full-time 🎥 Community of 138K+ on YouTube ⬇️ Watch and read latest content ⬇️
  • We rolled into Gyeongju on a zippy high-speed train and realized that this place is like walking through a history book that forgot it was supposed to be boring. They call it Korea’s “museum without walls,” and we couldn’t agree more. Our favorite stop? The stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge — painted dragons above, river below, and us smack in the middle of this fabulous city wondering how we could rearrange our schedule for a longer stay. Our hearts were hitching a ride back to the 7th century, but unfortunately, the next train was scheduled to take us to the next amazing Korean city. We’ll be back, no doubt! We love it so!
#korea #gyeongju #retirementtravelers
  • One thing we learned in Seoul today is that by wearing our Retirement Travelers shirts and vlogging our adventures, we were no longer ordinary tourists. We were viral-worthy legends in the eyes of middle-school boys. At Gyeongbokgung Palace, we were admiring the royal rooftops when this fun group of kids spotted us and swarmed. Phones clicked, peace signs flew, and we soaked up our five minutes of fame. And to think—our kids back home just call us “cute old people” but clearly, in South Korea, we are one step away from debuting as the next K-pop duo. 🤣 #seoulkorea #seoul🇰🇷 #kpop #korea NEVER STOP ACTING LIKE A KID!!!
  • Hands down, our favorite thing at the Osaka World Expo 2025 was the Grand Ring—a jaw-dropping, 2-kilometer wooden skywalk that loops above the pavilions like a giant hula hoop. Not only does it hold the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden architectural structure, but it also came with one magical feature most of the pavilions lacked: no reservations required!!! We strolled around the wooden marvel like VIPs with zero lines and awesome views. #osaka #worldexpo #japan
  • We took one last wander through Kyoto’s bamboo forest today—along with what felt like the entire population of Earth. Still, the towering stalks and swaying hush made it feel like nature was trying its best to whisper over the crowd. As we get ready to leave Kyoto behind, we’re carrying some unforgettable moments with us and we look forward to adding some more along the way. #kyoto #japanlife  #bambooforest
  • We’ve officially arrived in Kyoto, and guess who’s already winning at this whole cultural immersion thing. Our 7-year-old granddaughter. Jet lag? She laughed in its face. Chopsticks? She’s in training. Bowing politely? Basically, a local diplomat. And the outfit? A pink kimono and a matching fan that we bought her—she’s got more style than the rest of us combined. Meanwhile, we’re over here trying to decode the Japanese metro system like it’s an escape room… after a month of being spoiled by China’s luxury rail life. She’s thriving, we’re surviving—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way! It is also good reminder to us to still see the world through the curiosity and innocence of a child. Evie, Thanks for joining us in Japan!!! #kyotojapan #kyoto #japan
  • In the heart of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, we found ourselves living a dream—our lodging nestled high within the iconic Jin Mao Tower(Bldg on left). Each morning, we woke to a commanding view of the World Financial Center slicing through the sky, and just steps away stood the architectural marvel that is the Shanghai Tower—the third tallest building in the world. Our adventure reached thrilling new heights as we ascended to its summit, where the city sprawled beneath us like a living tapestry. It was more than just a stay; it was a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring skylines on Earth. #shanghai #chinatrip #jinmaotower #shanghaitower #china
  • A visit to Beijing isn’t complete without a long walk on the Great Wall (Badaling section), which is now only a 30-minute train ride from Beijing North Railway Station. It is simply spectacular and a must visit. #greatwall #greatwallofchina #china
  • Bev stood in awe before the Army of Terracotta Warriors near Xi'an. Hidden for 2200 years, these ancient relics were only unearthed by a Chinese farmer in 1974. China's First Emperor Qin Shi Huang sought to defy mortality. He poured vast resources into constructing an underground empire, complete with palaces, armies, chariots, and stables. Spanning 21 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest burial ground on earth. #xian #xianchina #terracottawarriors #china #retirementtravel
  • The reason we stopped in Chengdu was pretty black and white………and very, very cute. 🐼
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an incredible facility that houses over 200 Giant Pandas and Red Pandas. This photo is the most famous resident here. She is a cutie and a social media star in China, named HuaHua. 
#pandas #huahua #chengdu #chinatravel
  • We are in Chongqing. This municipality in southwestern China is considered one of the largest cities in the world with over 30 million people. It is massive! It is nicknamed “The Mountain City” because of the many urban hills with unique transportation systems that adapt to the terrain. This is a vibrant place with lots of high-end shopping, a monorail that passes through a building, towering skyscrapers, and so many wonderful “Hot Pot” restaurants. #china #chongqing #lizibastation
  • Just zipping around China by train,
We think it’s much better than a plane.
A rail network so vast,
And speeds that are fast,
There is nary a thing to complain.

Several of you have asked how we are getting around in China? Well, the Chinese high-speed train system has quite simply BLOWN US AWAY!!! It is modern, affordable, fast, clean, efficient, convenient and has great service. There is a rapidly expanding network of 25,000 miles of high-speed rail lines, with numerous daily routes going about anywhere you would want to go. We have tried the 1st and 2nd class tickets, both of which are perfectly fine, but admit we love the over-the-top luxury of business class for affordable prices. We will be detailing more info about Chinese train travel in future videos, so stay tuned. John and Bev
#china #trains #traintravel
  • Tianmen Mountain was our third incredible attraction near Zhangjiajie, China. The mountain can be accessed from the city by two different exhilarating aerial trams or a dangerous highway featuring 99 hairpin turns. Tianmen literally means “Heaven’s Gate” and the 999 stairs leading up to the opening are known as the Stairway to Heaven. Climbing this stairway was another bucket list experience for us, so we took our time on the steep steps and just savored every moment. After passing through the gate, a long series of escalators take you up through the inside of the mountain to the top, where they have a glass-bottomed walkway hugging a cliffside and many great views of the area.
#china #tianmen #tianmenmountain
View on Instagram
We rolled into Gyeongju on a zippy high-speed train and realized that this place is like walking through a history book that forgot it was supposed to be boring. They call it Korea’s “museum without walls,” and we couldn’t agree more. Our favorite stop? The stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge — painted dragons above, river below, and us smack in the middle of this fabulous city wondering how we could rearrange our schedule for a longer stay. Our hearts were hitching a ride back to the 7th century, but unfortunately, the next train was scheduled to take us to the next amazing Korean city. We’ll be back, no doubt! We love it so!
#korea #gyeongju #retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We rolled into Gyeongju on a zippy high-speed train and realized that this place is like walking through a history book that forgot it was supposed to be boring. They call it Korea’s “museum without walls,” and we couldn’t agree more. Our favorite stop? The stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge — painted dragons above, river below, and us smack in the middle of this fabulous city wondering how we could rearrange our schedule for a longer stay. Our hearts were hitching a ride back to the 7th century, but unfortunately, the next train was scheduled to take us to the next amazing Korean city. We’ll be back, no doubt! We love it so! #korea #gyeongju #retirementtravelers
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
1/12
One thing we learned in Seoul today is that by wearing our Retirement Travelers shirts and vlogging our adventures, we were no longer ordinary tourists. We were viral-worthy legends in the eyes of middle-school boys. At Gyeongbokgung Palace, we were admiring the royal rooftops when this fun group of kids spotted us and swarmed. Phones clicked, peace signs flew, and we soaked up our five minutes of fame. And to think—our kids back home just call us “cute old people” but clearly, in South Korea, we are one step away from debuting as the next K-pop duo. 🤣 #seoulkorea #seoul🇰🇷 #kpop #korea NEVER STOP ACTING LIKE A KID!!!
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
One thing we learned in Seoul today is that by wearing our Retirement Travelers shirts and vlogging our adventures, we were no longer ordinary tourists. We were viral-worthy legends in the eyes of middle-school boys. At Gyeongbokgung Palace, we were admiring the royal rooftops when this fun group of kids spotted us and swarmed. Phones clicked, peace signs flew, and we soaked up our five minutes of fame. And to think—our kids back home just call us “cute old people” but clearly, in South Korea, we are one step away from debuting as the next K-pop duo. 🤣 #seoulkorea #seoul🇰🇷 #kpop #korea NEVER STOP ACTING LIKE A KID!!!
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
2/12
Hands down, our favorite thing at the Osaka World Expo 2025 was the Grand Ring—a jaw-dropping, 2-kilometer wooden skywalk that loops above the pavilions like a giant hula hoop. Not only does it hold the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden architectural structure, but it also came with one magical feature most of the pavilions lacked: no reservations required!!! We strolled around the wooden marvel like VIPs with zero lines and awesome views. #osaka #worldexpo #japan
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
Hands down, our favorite thing at the Osaka World Expo 2025 was the Grand Ring—a jaw-dropping, 2-kilometer wooden skywalk that loops above the pavilions like a giant hula hoop. Not only does it hold the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden architectural structure, but it also came with one magical feature most of the pavilions lacked: no reservations required!!! We strolled around the wooden marvel like VIPs with zero lines and awesome views. #osaka #worldexpo #japan
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
3/12
We took one last wander through Kyoto’s bamboo forest today—along with what felt like the entire population of Earth. Still, the towering stalks and swaying hush made it feel like nature was trying its best to whisper over the crowd. As we get ready to leave Kyoto behind, we’re carrying some unforgettable moments with us and we look forward to adding some more along the way. #kyoto #japanlife  #bambooforest
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We took one last wander through Kyoto’s bamboo forest today—along with what felt like the entire population of Earth. Still, the towering stalks and swaying hush made it feel like nature was trying its best to whisper over the crowd. As we get ready to leave Kyoto behind, we’re carrying some unforgettable moments with us and we look forward to adding some more along the way. #kyoto #japanlife #bambooforest
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
4/12
We’ve officially arrived in Kyoto, and guess who’s already winning at this whole cultural immersion thing. Our 7-year-old granddaughter. Jet lag? She laughed in its face. Chopsticks? She’s in training. Bowing politely? Basically, a local diplomat. And the outfit? A pink kimono and a matching fan that we bought her—she’s got more style than the rest of us combined. Meanwhile, we’re over here trying to decode the Japanese metro system like it’s an escape room… after a month of being spoiled by China’s luxury rail life. She’s thriving, we’re surviving—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way! It is also good reminder to us to still see the world through the curiosity and innocence of a child. Evie, Thanks for joining us in Japan!!! #kyotojapan #kyoto #japan
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We’ve officially arrived in Kyoto, and guess who’s already winning at this whole cultural immersion thing. Our 7-year-old granddaughter. Jet lag? She laughed in its face. Chopsticks? She’s in training. Bowing politely? Basically, a local diplomat. And the outfit? A pink kimono and a matching fan that we bought her—she’s got more style than the rest of us combined. Meanwhile, we’re over here trying to decode the Japanese metro system like it’s an escape room… after a month of being spoiled by China’s luxury rail life. She’s thriving, we’re surviving—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way! It is also good reminder to us to still see the world through the curiosity and innocence of a child. Evie, Thanks for joining us in Japan!!! #kyotojapan #kyoto #japan
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
5/12
In the heart of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, we found ourselves living a dream—our lodging nestled high within the iconic Jin Mao Tower(Bldg on left). Each morning, we woke to a commanding view of the World Financial Center slicing through the sky, and just steps away stood the architectural marvel that is the Shanghai Tower—the third tallest building in the world. Our adventure reached thrilling new heights as we ascended to its summit, where the city sprawled beneath us like a living tapestry. It was more than just a stay; it was a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring skylines on Earth. #shanghai #chinatrip #jinmaotower #shanghaitower #china
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
In the heart of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, we found ourselves living a dream—our lodging nestled high within the iconic Jin Mao Tower(Bldg on left). Each morning, we woke to a commanding view of the World Financial Center slicing through the sky, and just steps away stood the architectural marvel that is the Shanghai Tower—the third tallest building in the world. Our adventure reached thrilling new heights as we ascended to its summit, where the city sprawled beneath us like a living tapestry. It was more than just a stay; it was a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring skylines on Earth. #shanghai #chinatrip #jinmaotower #shanghaitower #china
4 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
6/12
A visit to Beijing isn’t complete without a long walk on the Great Wall (Badaling section), which is now only a 30-minute train ride from Beijing North Railway Station. It is simply spectacular and a must visit. #greatwall #greatwallofchina #china
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
A visit to Beijing isn’t complete without a long walk on the Great Wall (Badaling section), which is now only a 30-minute train ride from Beijing North Railway Station. It is simply spectacular and a must visit. #greatwall #greatwallofchina #china
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
7/12
Bev stood in awe before the Army of Terracotta Warriors near Xi'an. Hidden for 2200 years, these ancient relics were only unearthed by a Chinese farmer in 1974. China's First Emperor Qin Shi Huang sought to defy mortality. He poured vast resources into constructing an underground empire, complete with palaces, armies, chariots, and stables. Spanning 21 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest burial ground on earth. #xian #xianchina #terracottawarriors #china #retirementtravel
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
Bev stood in awe before the Army of Terracotta Warriors near Xi'an. Hidden for 2200 years, these ancient relics were only unearthed by a Chinese farmer in 1974. China's First Emperor Qin Shi Huang sought to defy mortality. He poured vast resources into constructing an underground empire, complete with palaces, armies, chariots, and stables. Spanning 21 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest burial ground on earth. #xian #xianchina #terracottawarriors #china #retirementtravel
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
8/12
The reason we stopped in Chengdu was pretty black and white………and very, very cute. 🐼
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an incredible facility that houses over 200 Giant Pandas and Red Pandas. This photo is the most famous resident here. She is a cutie and a social media star in China, named HuaHua. 
#pandas #huahua #chengdu #chinatravel
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
The reason we stopped in Chengdu was pretty black and white………and very, very cute. 🐼 The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an incredible facility that houses over 200 Giant Pandas and Red Pandas. This photo is the most famous resident here. She is a cutie and a social media star in China, named HuaHua. #pandas #huahua #chengdu #chinatravel
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
9/12
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We are in Chongqing. This municipality in southwestern China is considered one of the largest cities in the world with over 30 million people. It is massive! It is nicknamed “The Mountain City” because of the many urban hills with unique transportation systems that adapt to the terrain. This is a vibrant place with lots of high-end shopping, a monorail that passes through a building, towering skyscrapers, and so many wonderful “Hot Pot” restaurants. #china #chongqing #lizibastation
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
10/12
Just zipping around China by train,
We think it’s much better than a plane.
A rail network so vast,
And speeds that are fast,
There is nary a thing to complain.

Several of you have asked how we are getting around in China? Well, the Chinese high-speed train system has quite simply BLOWN US AWAY!!! It is modern, affordable, fast, clean, efficient, convenient and has great service. There is a rapidly expanding network of 25,000 miles of high-speed rail lines, with numerous daily routes going about anywhere you would want to go. We have tried the 1st and 2nd class tickets, both of which are perfectly fine, but admit we love the over-the-top luxury of business class for affordable prices. We will be detailing more info about Chinese train travel in future videos, so stay tuned. John and Bev
#china #trains #traintravel
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
Just zipping around China by train, We think it’s much better than a plane. A rail network so vast, And speeds that are fast, There is nary a thing to complain. Several of you have asked how we are getting around in China? Well, the Chinese high-speed train system has quite simply BLOWN US AWAY!!! It is modern, affordable, fast, clean, efficient, convenient and has great service. There is a rapidly expanding network of 25,000 miles of high-speed rail lines, with numerous daily routes going about anywhere you would want to go. We have tried the 1st and 2nd class tickets, both of which are perfectly fine, but admit we love the over-the-top luxury of business class for affordable prices. We will be detailing more info about Chinese train travel in future videos, so stay tuned. John and Bev #china #trains #traintravel
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
11/12
Tianmen Mountain was our third incredible attraction near Zhangjiajie, China. The mountain can be accessed from the city by two different exhilarating aerial trams or a dangerous highway featuring 99 hairpin turns. Tianmen literally means “Heaven’s Gate” and the 999 stairs leading up to the opening are known as the Stairway to Heaven. Climbing this stairway was another bucket list experience for us, so we took our time on the steep steps and just savored every moment. After passing through the gate, a long series of escalators take you up through the inside of the mountain to the top, where they have a glass-bottomed walkway hugging a cliffside and many great views of the area.
#china #tianmen #tianmenmountain
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
Tianmen Mountain was our third incredible attraction near Zhangjiajie, China. The mountain can be accessed from the city by two different exhilarating aerial trams or a dangerous highway featuring 99 hairpin turns. Tianmen literally means “Heaven’s Gate” and the 999 stairs leading up to the opening are known as the Stairway to Heaven. Climbing this stairway was another bucket list experience for us, so we took our time on the steep steps and just savored every moment. After passing through the gate, a long series of escalators take you up through the inside of the mountain to the top, where they have a glass-bottomed walkway hugging a cliffside and many great views of the area. #china #tianmen #tianmenmountain
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
12/12

Our Travel Budget

YouTube player

Biggest Retirement Mistake

YouTube player

Thanks for your support!

Retirement Travelers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

We also participate in other affiliate advertising programs where we earn a small commission when you purchase a product on our site.

Thanks for your support!

Footer

Retirement Travelers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

We also participate in various other affiliate programs with products.

Retirement Travelers is a Registered Trademark.

Copyright © 2025 ·

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy