The launch of high-speed sleeper trains linking Hong Kong with Beijing and Shanghai has been warmly welcomed in Hong Kong, with all sleeper cars on northbound trains being filled and sales of related travel products increasing significantly.
Tourism industry insiders welcomed the new service as a further enhancement to the high-speed rail network, and said they hoped it would be expanded to more cities across mainland China.
Starting Saturday, overnight high-speed sleeper trains capable of carrying more than 600 passengers each will operate between Hong Kong and the two mainland cities from Friday to Monday. Ticket sales began on June 5. Sleeper tickets for the trains heading north on Saturday and Sunday quickly sold out.
Many travel agencies have also launched travel packages for eager passengers, with some packages costing more than HK$3,399 ($435) already fully booked for weekend departures.
Chan Yingping, chairman of local travel company Big Line Holiday, said he launched travel packages for the high-speed sleeper train on June 6, the day after tickets for the new service went on sale. The packages were booked up almost immediately.
Perry Yiu Pak-leung, a lawmaker who represents Hong Kong's tourism industry, said there remains a strong trend for Hong Kong residents to travel to mainland China and the new service will provide an excellent transport link to mainland Chinese cities.
He believes the new service will attract more seniors and families as sleeper trains offer passengers a more comfortable travel experience.
Gary Chan Hsin-yu, Chairman of the Hong Kong Legislative Council's Sub-Committee on Railway Affairs, said the new overnight high-speed rail service is a great option for both leisure and business travelers. It allows passengers to save an overnight hotel bill and provides flexibility in scheduling travel and business activities. It could also potentially attract more tourists and investors from mainland China to Hong Kong.
