Railway oasis in nature

Wei highlighted that Shennongjia offers different attractions throughout the year: "In spring, visitors can enjoy the blossoms; in summer, they can escape the heat; in fall, there's the allure of autumn leaves; and in winter, they can experience the thrill of winter sports."

Life has also improved for the staff members. The station has built a sun-room for drying clothes, acquired various fitness equipment, and set up a reading room. Younger staff members have even taken over a small plot of land to grow vegetables such as tomatoes and green peppers.

"I had never farmed before joining the station. Now, I'm enjoying organic vegetables that I've grown myself," said Zhang Shan, 26, a staff member. "I can draft railway schematics, sell tickets on the computer, and work in the fields with my own hands. I think that's pretty cool."

According to Zhang Yawen, eight out of the 26 staff members were born in the 1990s and 2000s. "Most of us used to work at regular-speed stations. We came here because we believe there are more challenges and opportunities for personal growth at a new high-speed railway station," she said. "We have learned a lot, including emergency procedures for extreme weather."

Wei believes that Shennongjia Forestry District and the younger staff members share a common trait: both are full of potential.

"Shennongjia is still a mysterious place with vast unexplored and undeveloped land. Traveling through the district by train, seeing the primitive forests alongside modern cities, feels like a journey through time. It's definitely a place worth visiting at least once in a lifetime," he said.