If time = money, then we understand wanting to get to your travel destination in the most efficient way possible. But if you’re not in a hurry, then train travel is where it’s at. Here’s one for folks who don’t mind spending a couple of extra hours on board. This is the new sleeper train from Hong Kong to Beijing:
You can book tickets for the Hong Kong to Beijing sleeper train on the 12306 China Railway website. You can also book them on the 12306 China Railway app (App Store | Google Play). Just make sure you set your departure to “hkwestkowloon”.
Prices start from HK$937 (~S$162.08) for a second class ticket, but if you want a sleeper berth, prices start from HK$1,031 (~S$178.35) for an upper deck. There is also a deluxe version that comes furnished with a sofa and wardrobe. The service runs in the evenings from Fridays to Mondays only, and there’s only one departure a day. Needless to say, it’s a matter of fastest fingers first to secure your tickets.
You can also make a reservation through Trip.com. However, it must be noted that reservations don’t necessarily mean a confirmed ticket, since demand is high. Refunds will be given if they aren’t able to successfully book a ticket.
Make a Hong Kong to Beijing sleeper train reservation.
For illustrative purposes only.
Screenshotted from: 老酒环游世界 Sway on the road via YouTube
Singaporeans don’t need to apply for a visa to visit Hong Kong or China. You’re also allowed to stay for 30 days visa free in both places. Before hopping on board your sleeper train, there’s a joint immigration checkpoint that covers both Hong Kong and China, so there’s no need to go through immigration again when you reach Beijing.
The train comes with 13 sleeper cars that house 2 bunk beds that can sleep up to 4 passengers. Don’t expect too much in your cabins though. There are individual lights you can control at each berth, as well as temperature control settings, but that’s about it.
Image used is for illustrative purposes only.
Screenshotted from: 老酒环游世界 Sway on the road via YouTube
Outside of your cabin, you can take a walk to the dedicated dining car whenever you’re feeling peckish. You can get drinks, snacks, and even hot bento meals for RMB15-RMB68 (~S$2.79-S$12.65). Pretty darn cheap in this economy.
You’ll start from here: Hong Kong.
The train stations in Shenzhen, Dongguan, Guangzhou, Changsha, and Shijiazhuang before a final stop at Beijing West Railway Station. The train will depart Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Station at 6.24pm and arrive at 6.53am in Beijing the next day. In total, it’s about a 12.5 hour journey.
And end up here: Beijing.
If you’re taking the train in the opposite direction, the train departs at 8.13pm and arrives in Hong Kong at 8.47am the next morning.
If you’re not one to enjoy long scenic Asian train rides, this overnight sleeper train probably isn’t for you. But if the idea of tucking yourself in and waking up on a train going at a speed of 200km/h appeals to you, then head on all aboard!
For other cool train rides check out:
Cover image adapted from: Wikipedia and The Smart Local
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