A train built based on a 1930s French design began shuttling tourists in the central highlands resort town of Dalat on Friday.

A tour guide accompanies tourists on the trip, said Ngo Minh Chau, Da Lat Station Director.

Each compartment is adorned with old-fashioned décor and the train plays old French and Vietnamese songs about Da Lat, Chau said.

Da Lat-Trai Mat railway was part of the Da Lat-Thap Cham Railway built by the French in 1932. The 84-kilometer railway was closed down late 1960s.

In 1991 the local authorities restored the Da Lat – Trai Mat section for tourism and began building the 1930s train three months ago.

Reported by Gia Binh