What is the ‘hard-sleeper’ class on the train?
The trains in China know various ‘classes’ of travel, amongst which the ‘hard-sleeper’ class. Hard-sleeper does not mean that you will be sleeping on hard planks. The beds can even be called reasonably comfortable. During all train trips, we use the hard sleepers. This entails that you sleep in an open compartment with six hard sleeping facilities. In these hard sleepers, you are provided with sheets, blankets and pillows, however a sheet lining might come in handy. In addition, you will find a thermos with hot water so bring your own mug. The major chatter and the rustling of tea cups abrubtly ends when the lights are turned off and you are slowly rocked to sleep by the movement of the train. On the 22-day trip with U.S. and Canadian participants you will have the option to upgrade to a soft sleeper. It is more spacious, sleeps four, and is good for people who are sensitive to cigarette smoke. This option is not available on the 17, 24 and 29-day trips.