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A Whoosh and a sigh: A speedy ride with some transit hassle
Passengers appear content with the high-speed part of the journey, but less so with the connection in Bandung regency.
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Travelers take photos on Nov. 22 in front of the Whoosh, Southeast Asia's first high-speed railway (HSR), ahead of the train’s departure from Halim Station in Jakarta. (JP/Ruth Dea Juwita)
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ipping from Halim Station in Jakarta to Tegalluar Station in Bandung regency in 45 minutes, the Whoosh, Southeast Asia’s first high-speed railway (HSR) service, has piqued the interest of many travelers.
The scene preceding the journey is one of orderly queues, seamlessly swinging check-in gates and abundant signage guiding passengers to the right platform and carriage and swiftly into their reserved seats.
Shu Qing, Xinhua’s photographer in Jakarta, had just finished his 20th Whoosh trip as he shared his impressions with journalists on Wednesday: “I always feel happy on the HSR, especially when it hits 350 kilometers per hour. Every time I travel from Jakarta to Bandung, it feels like a journey back to China.”
Each ride was a blend of “pure delight and a testament to modern transportation marvels”, Qing reminisced, recalling the joy he witnessed among fellow passengers in his carriage breaking into applause each time the train hit its top speed.
University of Padjadjaran student Li Tianchong, called Yoga by his friends in Indonesia, slept through part of his first ride: “'I dozed off for a bit during the ride, and when I woke up, I was confused for a moment. Is this heading to my hometown or somewhere else?”
“Oh, turns out it’s taking me to my second home, Bandung,” the Chinese student said humorously, adding that the moment of realization came upon observing the megamendung batik motifs adorning the seats and highlighting a cultural connection between China and Indonesia.
China Daily reporter Guo Rong shared the same sentiment: “It's a familiar experience, very similar to China's high-speed rail, very satisfying and boasting similar amenities.”
