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If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai and want to combine a highlight of modern engineering with some of the city’s best local foods, this tour offers an intriguing mix. It’s a compact journey—roughly 1 to 3 hours—that takes you aboard the world’s fastest commercial maglev train, followed by a tasty exploration of Shanghai’s snack scene. For those who love a bit of technological marvel alongside authentic culinary experiences, this could be just the ticket.
What we find particularly appealing about this experience is the chance to ride the magnetic levitation train that zooms at speeds that seem almost futuristic—an absolute must-see for train enthusiasts or anyone curious about cutting-edge transportation. Plus, the inclusion of local snacks ensures a taste of Shanghai’s culinary vibrancy, making it a well-rounded experience that balances innovation with tradition.
However, one possible drawback is that the tour’s timing is quite specific—meeting at 3:20 pm at Longyang Road Station, with the train’s fastest run between 3:02 pm and 3:47 pm. This means your schedule needs to be flexible, especially if you’re arriving from elsewhere or want to customize your experience. It’s also a short tour, so those seeking a comprehensive food or train adventure might want to supplement it with other activities.
This tour suits travelers who are short on time but eager to tick off two iconic Shanghai experiences—the world’s fastest train and delicious local snacks. It’s perfect for curious visitors, technology buffs, or anyone wanting a quick yet memorable taste of Shanghai’s modernity and culture.
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Key Points
- You get to ride the fastest maglev train in the world in a round-trip experience.
- The tour combines transport innovation with authentic local snacks.
- It’s a short, flexible activity, ideal for those with limited time in Shanghai.
- The guide helps to manage snack portions to avoid waste and maximize tasting.
- The tour operates daily, with specific train timings; plan your day accordingly.
- Small group size (up to 10 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.
The Maglev Train: Shanghai’s Speed Demon
The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly boarding the Shanghai Maglev, a marvel of modern engineering. This train, which claims the title of the fastest train in the world, reaches speeds of up to 431 km/h (268 mph) during its fastest runs. While daytime speeds can vary, the specific window between 15:02 and 15:47 is when the train hits its peak velocity, making it a mesmerizing spectacle of technology.
As you board at Longyang Road Station, you’re stepping into a sleek, futuristic carriage. The ride itself is smooth and quiet, contrasting starkly with traditional trains, thanks to magnetic levitation technology that eliminates friction. The sensation of gliding at such incredible speeds is something you’ll likely remember long after the journey ends. The experience is brief—about 8 minutes in total—but it’s one that combines thrill with a tangible sense of progress and innovation.
For train enthusiasts or tech lovers, noticing the train’s precision timing and engineering prowess will be a highlight. Plus, the round trip allows you to experience both directions, giving you an opportunity to appreciate the symmetry of the technology and the views on each leg.
What to Expect at the Station
You’ll need to make your own way to Longyang Road Station, either via subway lines 2, 7, or 16 or by taxi, arriving by 3:20 pm sharp. The guide will meet you here, and from there, you’ll proceed to the platform for your maglev ride. The timing is crucial because the train’s fastest runs are only during a specific part of the afternoon. Being punctual ensures you don’t miss the peak speed experience.
The Round Trip
The tour includes a round trip—boarding the train once in each direction—which helps you get the full thrill of the ride. Even if you’re not a train buff, the experience of zipping through the cityscape at such high velocity is quite memorable. Plus, the return journey offers different perspectives of Shanghai’s Pudong skyline, providing some great photo opportunities.
Culinary Component: Tasting Shanghai’s Snacks
After experiencing the cutting-edge of transportation, the tour shifts gears to focus on local flavors. The guide will lead you to taste about five different types of traditional Shanghai snacks, with portions carefully divided into smaller bites to maximize variety and avoid food waste. This thoughtful approach ensures you get to sample a diverse range of tastes, from sweet to savory.
The snacks are carefully selected to showcase the city’s culinary traditions. Expect to try specialty items that are popular among locals, giving you a genuine taste of Shanghai’s snack culture. This part of the tour is especially appealing to food lovers who enjoy sampling authentic street foods without the hassle of wandering aimlessly or risking over-ordering.
The Snack Experience
Your guide’s expertise means you’ll taste a thoughtful selection, likely including some local specialties that might be hard to find elsewhere. The division of snacks into smaller portions means you can try more varieties without feeling overwhelmed or wasteful, making this a smart approach especially if you’re mindful of your appetite or the environment.
Practical Tips
- Come hungry but be prepared for smaller portions.
- Follow your guide’s lead for the best tasting options.
- Remember to pace yourself—these snacks are meant to be enjoyed, not overindulged.
Logistics and Practical Details
The tour is organized by jason tour in Shanghai and costs $148 per person—a fair price considering the combined experience of high-speed rail and local snacks. It’s a short, flexible activity, typically lasting from an hour up to three hours, making it suitable for those with tight schedules.
You’ll meet at Longyang Road Station (Pudong), which is well-connected via subway and taxi. The tour runs daily, with hours from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, offering some flexibility if you want to extend your day around the scheduled train ride.
The small group size (up to 10 travelers) helps ensure a more intimate experience and better interaction with the guide, who will also assist in managing snack portions and timing.
Considerations
- Timing is key: Make sure to arrive on time for the 3:20 pm meeting.
- The train timings are specific, with the fastest speed window between 15:02 and 15:47.
- The experience is non-refundable and cannot be altered, so plan accordingly.
- Participants need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.
Authenticity and Experience
This tour is a neat combination of cutting-edge technology and authentic local flavors—a perfect snapshot of modern Shanghai. We loved the way it balances innovation and tradition, providing memorable moments whether you’re a train enthusiast, foodie, or just curious traveler.
The maglev ride isn’t just about speed; it’s about experiencing a piece of the future, wrapped in a sleek, comfortable carriage. The snacks offer a taste of local life, expertly curated to maximize variety and enjoyment without waste. The guide’s attentiveness and effort to divide portions show a genuine desire to make this a pleasant, meaningful experience.
While the tour is brief, its impact is significant—offering a quick yet comprehensive glimpse into Shanghai’s technological prowess and culinary charm. For travelers with limited time, it packs in a lot of value—especially if you’re eager to tick off multiple “must-see and do” items in a single outing.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for tech buffs and train enthusiasts eager to ride the world’s fastest train. It’s also suited for food lovers who want a quick taste of authentic Shanghai snacks. Because of its short duration, it’s perfect for cruise passengers, layover travelers, or anyone with limited time in the city.
However, it’s less suitable if you’re interested in a deep dive into Shanghai’s culture or history—this is more about modern marvels and bites. Travelers who prefer a leisurely pace or want to spend more time exploring might want to look for longer, more comprehensive local food tours or train journeys.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a unique blend of technological innovation and authentic local tastes at a reasonable price. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a memorable experience without committing an entire day. The maglev ride alone is worth the price for those fascinated by high-speed trains or curious about future transit tech, while the snack tasting adds a genuine flavor of Shanghai’s street food scene.
If you’re after a fun, efficient, and authentic way to experience a slice of Shanghai’s cutting-edge future and culinary traditions, this tour hits the mark. It’s a neat, compact adventure that’s sure to leave you with stories—and perhaps a few new favorite snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, you’ll need to make your way to Longyang Road Station, either by subway (lines 2, 7, or 16) or taxi, arriving sharply at 3:20 pm.
What is the best time to experience the maglev’s fastest speed?
The fastest speed runs occur between 15:02 and 15:47, so plan your arrival to coincide with this window if experiencing maximum speed is important.
How long does the entire tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 1 to 3 hours, depending on timing, group pace, and whether you choose to stay longer for snacks or sightseeing afterward.
Are there any age restrictions or group size limits?
The tour is designed for most travelers and has a maximum group size of 10, ensuring a more personalized experience.
What should I expect at the station and during the ride?
You’ll meet your guide at Longyang Road Station; then, you’ll board the maglev for about 8 minutes each way, zipping at incredible speeds with views of the city on each leg.
Can I participate if I’m traveling alone or in a group?
Yes, the tour welcomes both solo travelers and groups, with small group sizes making it easy to connect with others.
Is food included in the price?
No, the snack tasting is part of the tour, with the guide leading you through about five different local snacks, divided into smaller portions.
What if I want to cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan your attendance carefully.
This tour offers an engaging glimpse into Shanghai’s tech-driven future and vibrant food scene—perfect for those wanting a quick, memorable taste of the city’s modern pulse.
