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The train reportedly travels on a 2,300 km high-speed rail line connecting three major cities: Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. With a maximum speed of up to 350 km/h, the high-speed sleeper train significantly shortens travel time compared to other modes of transportation.
The train used is the CR400AF, a modernly designed train with 16 carriages, including 2 second-class carriages, 13 sleeping carriages, and 1 dining carriage. The sleeping berths are fully equipped with amenities such as power outlets, reading lights, entertainment screens, folding tables, and storage cabinets, ensuring comfort for passengers throughout the journey.
Travel time on high-speed sleeper trains is significantly shorter compared to other modes of transportation.
There are three types of seats to choose from: No-bed, sleeper, and premium sleeper. The standard sleeper cabin includes two bunk beds, accommodating four passengers. The premium version, currently only available on the Hong Kong-Shanghai route, features bunk beds, a wardrobe, and a sofa.
At West Kowloon Station (Hong Kong, China), the first two high-speed trains to West Beijing Station and Hongqiao Station in Shanghai departed at 6:24 PM and 7:49 PM respectively. Tickets for the first sleeper train went on sale on June 5th and all tickets were sold out.
The new rail service will operate from Friday to Monday each week, reducing travel time between Beijing and Hong Kong (China) to approximately 12.5 hours, half the time it took before.
Shanghai China Railway Group said the adjusted schedule aims to facilitate seamless travel and tourism experiences in the Yangtze River Delta region, while enhancing travel options to Hong Kong from Beijing and Shanghai.
Passengers have comfortable space to relax on the train.
Faster sleeper trains to Hong Kong are also set to begin operating from Beijing and Shanghai, promising a refined travel experience for cross-border passengers and simplifying journeys between Hong Kong and mainland China.
According to China Daily, this high-speed rail line is part of a project to develop a high-speed sleeper train service connecting the financial centers of Hong Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai.
Chinese government data shows that the new high-speed interconnected transport network could boost economic development in the more remote areas of the region, which accounted for nearly a quarter of China's GDP in 2023. The government stated in January 2024 that cities in the region are aiming for growth of 5% to 6% by 2024.
