Since its launch last month, a high-speed sleeper train connecting Ningbo, Zhejiang province, with Hong Kong has become increasingly popular among travelers thanks to its convenient overnight schedule and cost-effectiveness.

The train service offers three tiers of accommodation: first-class seats, second-class seats, and sleeper berths. The sleeper berths are private four-berth compartments in which passengers can sleep throughout the journey, leaving them feeling rejuvenated when they arrive in Hong Kong the following morning.

According to the current railway ticket pre-sale regulations, passengers can now secure tickets for the high-speed train service linking Ningbo and Hong Kong's West Kowloon for this week and the following week via the official booking platform, 12306.

At the current promotional rate, the upper sleeper berth is priced at 580 yuan ($81.61). The reduced fare is 200 yuan lower than the original 780 yuan, only 72 yuan more than the second-class seat ticket, priced at 507 yuan, and just 4 yuan more than the first-class seat ticket, priced at 576 yuan. With additional perks such as complimentary toiletry kits and snacks, the sleeper berth is being hailed for its cost-effectiveness.

Industry experts suggest that the current discounted fares are a strategic move to boost demand during the off-season, which lasts until mid to late December. Furthermore, with a maximum of three daily flights between Ningbo and Hong Kong offering competitively priced airfares, with the lowest tax-inclusive ticket priced at just 350 yuan for a morning flight from Ningbo to Hong Kong in November, the high-speed train service has introduced discounted tickets to better compete for passengers.

For high-speed rail travel enthusiasts, booking a sleeper berth for a weekend trip to Hong Kong offers a delightful opportunity to relax and enjoy a leisurely morning tea — a prospect well worth considering.