Chinese cinema offers 'nap screenings' for tired workers

In Xi'an, China, a cinema is redefining the movie-going experience by offering a unique service: 'noon nap' screenings. Lumiai Cinema in Shaanxi province began operating this innovative program in April of last year, transforming its screening rooms into quiet havens for tired office workers seeking respite during the workday.

For a monthly subscription of 39.9 yuan (approximately $5.50 USD), customers can reserve a spot in a designated screening room on any weekday afternoon. A two-person membership is available for 59.9 yuan (approximately $8.30 USD). The cinema has established rules for users, including silencing mobile phone notifications and stepping outside for calls, while requiring them to keep their shoes on. The screening rooms are categorized into 'leisure screening rooms' with spacious seating and 'massage chair screening rooms' for those who snore, who are guided to the latter.

One regular user, identified as Guo, a 33-year-old man working nearby, has been utilizing the service for four months. He shared that previously he would nap at his office desk but found it difficult to get proper rest. "Now, I come here every day during my work break to rest," he said, adding that the leisure screening rooms are "dark, clean, and comfortable enough to lie down, making it easy to fall asleep."

The cinema promotes this service under the name 'Lying Flat Plan,' cleverly tapping into China's 'tang ping' (lying flat) cultural trend. This movement, popular among younger generations, signifies a rejection of intense competition and overwork in favor of a more relaxed approach to life. Cinema officials report that over half of the seats designated for the nap service are consistently occupied.

The concept has garnered significant attention on Chinese social media, with many netizens expressing enthusiasm. Comments ranged from calling it a "truly necessary service for office workers" with a "reasonable price" to hoping for its nationwide expansion. Others praised it as a "creative solution" that benefits both customers and the cinema by generating revenue. Napping is a relatively common practice in China, with a survey by the Chinese Sleep Research Society indicating that over 70% of Chinese people nap in the afternoon, often for 30 minutes or more.