China's capsule hotels help office workers take a siesta

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‍Worn out office workers in China's busiest cities can finally find a cheap and functional place for a short rest, after capsule hotels were made available in Shanghai, Chengdu and Beijing.

Unlike in Japan, the pioneer of capsule hotels, these pods are only meant for short stays, especially during lunch hours, costing only six yuan per half hour.

Capsule hotels have appeared in CBD areas in Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu. / CFP Photo

The futuristic-looking sleeping pods can be accessed with a simple scan of a QR code using a smart phone. Fitted with a lock from the inside, a reading lamp, a USB port and disposable bedding, there is everything you need for a good sleep.

Guests are expected to take off their shoes before entering the pods and to throw out the used bedding before leaving.

The world’s first capsule hotel was built in Osaka in the late 1970s, designed by leading Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa. Since trains do not run 24 hours a day in Japan, capsule hotels became a place for businessmen to crash if they missed the last train while out drinking.

However, in China, where many people stick to the habit of lunchtime naps, this facility is set to be more popular during workers' lunch hours. Peak fees are charged during lunch, rising to 10 yuan per half hour.

A man inspecting the sleeping pod in Shanghai / CFP Photo

Han Yue, operations manager at Xiangshui Space, the company which runs the business, said “it’s really meeting a rigid demand as many professionals have a difficult time finding a nice private place to nap.”