Train Town takes shape in Yihe New Area

A train-themed culture, tourism and commercial project is gaining traction in Yihe New Area as Linyi works to turn an old market site into a new urban consumption landmark.

Located near the intersection of Yihe Road and Kunming Road, Train Town is being developed by Shandong Hengtai Fur Products on the site of East China Fur City, a commercial venue that has operated for 15 years.

The project upgrades existing market resources around a retro railway and industrial theme, adding leisure, shopping and sightseeing functions to a traditional business space.

Hengtai Fur Chairman Li Xiaosan said the company has spent more than 10 million yuan ($1.48 million) on a 1971 steam train and is building a pocket park around it.

"Our goal is to create a popular check-in destination where visitors can take photos, shop and spend," Li said. A train restaurant is also planned, creating a one-stop experience for recreation, shopping and dining.

The project is designed for visitors of all ages. Work is moving ahead on a fur specialty street for clothing and parent-child recreation areas, with light shows, performances and themed concerts planned to be added later.

Construction is currently ahead of schedule. Zang Zhiyong from Shandong Tiancheng Steel Structure said modular arrangements have put the project 20 days ahead of plan.

When completed, Train Town is expected to support the transformation of older markets and add momentum to culture-tourism-commerce integration in Yihe New Area.

Editor：韩蒙蒙