gourmet tour+maglev train experiencefastest train in the world

An Exciting Blend of Speed and Flavor: The Shanghai Gourmet & Maglev Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to combine adventure, culture, and food in Shanghai, this tour ticks all those boxes. It offers a chance to ride the fastest train in the world—the maglev—while also exploring some of the city’s best local snacks. The experience lasts around 1 to 3 hours, making it a quick yet memorable excursion, especially suited for those curious about modern Chinese innovation and authentic street foods.

What really stands out is the round-trip maglev ride, which gives you a taste of cutting-edge transport technology. Plus, the guided snack tasting ensures you get to sample about five different treats without the risk of overeating—thanks to the thoughtful portioning approach. But bear in mind, the tour is quite short, so it’s best for those who want a compact, fun snapshot of Shanghai rather than an in-depth exploration.

If you’re after a light, engaging experience that mixes a bit of tech wonder with culinary delights, this tour is a solid choice. Those expecting a leisurely, lengthy journey might find it a tad brief, but for many, the value-packed combination makes it well worth it.

Key Points

• Fastest Train Experience: Ride the maglev train, which reaches top speeds of around 430 km/h, offering a once-in-a-lifetime thrill.
• Authentic Snack Tasting: Enjoy approximately five different local snacks, with shared portions to maximize tasting without overindulgence.
• Convenient Meeting Point: The tour starts at Longyang Road MTR Station Exit 2, easily accessible by subway or taxi.
• Group Size: Small groups (max 10 travelers) ensure a more personalized experience.
• Timing and Flexibility: Tours run daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM; exact train speeds vary, with the fastest times between 3:02 PM and 3:47 PM.
• Affordable Value: At $148 per person, the tour offers a quick, fun immersion into Shanghai’s modern and culinary sides.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

Getting Started: Meeting at Longyang Road Station

The tour kicks off at Longyang Road MTR Station Exit 2, a central and accessible spot in Pudong. You’ll need to make your way there on your own, either via subway lines 2, 7, or 16, or by taxi. The guide will be waiting there, ready to lead you through the adventure. Expect to meet sharply at 3:20 p.m., so arriving a bit early ensures a smooth start.

A tip from past participants: the station’s signage is straightforward, and the staff are helpful if you need directions. The fact that the tour begins in a well-connected transit hub makes it a convenient choice for travelers already exploring Shanghai.

Riding the Maglev: The Highlight

The main draw is, no doubt, the maglev train ride. Known as the fastest train in the world, it offers a thrilling experience that few other cities can match. The train swiftly departs from Longyang Road, reaching notable speeds that vary daily, with the quickest runs occurring between 3:02 p.m. and 3:47 p.m. After boarding, you’ll feel the power and smoothness of this magnetic levitation train at an astonishing pace.

During the ride, the scenery whizzes by in a blur—futuristic skyscrapers, the rushing cityscape, and the smooth motion of a machine that symbolizes China’s innovation. We’ve read that some travelers find themselves amused by how quietly the train moves despite its speed, and many are impressed by the technological feat.

Round-Trip Adventure

The tour isn’t just a one-way thrill. The round-trip experience offers a full perspective on the maglev’s capabilities, with the train returning you to the starting point after a brief but unforgettable ride. This is particularly good for those who want to capture photos of the sleek train or simply enjoy the ride’s adrenaline.

Tasting Shanghai’s Snacks

After the train experience, it’s time for culinary exploration. The guide will lead you to taste about five different specialty snacks, with portions shared into 2-3 bites. This thoughtful approach means you can sample multiple flavors without risking fullness—perfect for picky eaters or those who want to maximize variety.

Many reviews highlight the variety and quality of the snacks. You might find yourself trying local favorites, such as savory dumplings, sweet pastries, or small street snacks that showcase Shanghai’s vibrant food scene. Our sources mention that the guide is careful to avoid food waste, which is appreciated by eco-conscious travelers.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing is key: The train’s highest speeds are during a specific window, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Participation is straightforward: All travelers can join, and the tour is suitable for most ages and mobility levels.
• Group size: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and easier interaction.
• Cost and value: For $148, you get a unique speed experience plus a curated snack tasting—a balanced mix of tech and taste.

Authentic Insights from Past Reviewers

Though ratings are not yet available, some reviewers have shared that the guide, Jason, is friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience more enjoyable. They also mentioned that the snack portions are perfect for trying a variety of flavors without feeling overly full, which is a smart touch.

A few noted that the speed of the train can vary slightly day to day, and timing the ride during the fastest window enhances the thrill. The tour is appreciated for its brevity and punch—a quick dose of cutting-edge tech and local flavor in a compact format.

Why This Tour Works Well for Certain Travelers

This experience is best suited for those wanting a short, high-impact activity. Tech enthusiasts will love the chance to ride the fastest train in the world, while food lovers will enjoy sampling authentic Shanghai snacks. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a taste of modern Shanghai without committing hours, or for travelers with limited time who want a fun, memorable snapshot of the city.

Families with older children might find this particularly appealing, as the train ride is thrilling and the snacks are fun but manageable. However, those seeking an in-depth cultural tour or extensive sightseeing will find it more of a highlight than a comprehensive experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $148, this tour offers a unique blend of technological marvel and local cuisine, all within a short timeframe. The maglev ride alone is worth the price for its sheer novelty and the chance to experience the fastest train in the world. The snack tasting adds a layer of culture that’s both fun and delicious.

If you’re after a quick, engaging experience that combines modern innovation with authentic flavors, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate curated, small-group activities and want to tick off a major highlight of Shanghai in a compact way.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into Chinese history or more extensive sightseeing, you might want to look for other options to complement this trip. But for a memorable, well-rounded taste of Shanghai’s future and flavor, this tour delivers.

FAQ

How do I get to the meeting point?
You can reach Longyang Road Station via subway lines 2, 7, or 16. Alternatively, a taxi is a good option for convenience. The guide will meet you at Exit 2.

What time should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive by 3:20 p.m. sharp to ensure a smooth start and catch the train during its fastest speed window, which is usually between 3:02 p.m. and 3:47 p.m.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s especially enjoyable for older children who can appreciate the thrill of the high-speed train.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour is approximately 1 to 3 hours, depending on how long you spend on the train and tasting snacks.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the round-trip maglev train ride and a guided snack tasting of about five local treats.

Can I buy tickets on the spot?
It’s recommended to book in advance through the provider to secure your spot, as the group size is limited to 10.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour runs daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but the actual train speed varies by day. Confirm your preferred time and check the window for the fastest ride.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are advisable, especially since you’ll be walking and standing during the snack tasting.

This tour offers a fun, fast-paced snapshot of modern Shanghai. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a foodie, or someone looking for a distinctive experience, it’s a quick way to tick off the city’s top highlights in a small, manageable package.