China on Speed: The Shanghai Maglev
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Welcome to the view inside the Shanghai Maglev (magnetic levitation) train once it reaches its maximum speed of 431 kilometers per hour. No typo there – that’s 268 miles per hour for the conversionally challenged. The trip from the center of Shanghai to the airport takes a cool 8 minutes and costs an even cooler 50 Y ($7.00).
Wonder what 260+ mph looks like in full motion? Check out the short video below and experience the Shanghai Maglev train from the comfort of your own home. This is modern Chinese development at its best.
Shanghai Maglev Video
Aside from availing yourself of Shanghai’s heavily-subsidized high-speed trains and all-you-can eat sushi (unsubsidized but reasonably-price nonetheless), check out The Bund, enjoy what remains of the Lonely Planet walking tour of the French Concession (what hasn’t been bulldozed for new developments), explore the side streets, and nosh on street food.
Photo Essay – Shanghai and Qingdao
Practical Details – Accommodation and Food in Shanghai
How to get there: We found www.elong.com (Chinese version of Expedia.com) to have the best deals on domestic flights.
How to catch the Maglev: From the Pudong International Airport, just follow the signs and take the Maglev to Longyang Road Metro Station (Line 2). From downtown, reverse those directions. Tickets: 50 RMB one-way (2nd class).
Where to stay: We stayed Le Tour Shanghai Hostel during both visits to Shanghai. The location is a bit odd, but it’s close to a metro station and has good facilities, including free wifi internet. Pleasant double room with ensuite bathroom is 200 RMB (190 with IYH card). Double room without ensuite bathroom is 160 (150 with IYH card). Address: 136 Bailan Road, Putuo District, Shangha 200063. Caoyang or Jinshajiang metro station (line 3 or 4). Tel: 8621-52510808
Where to eat: There are some good street food vendors outside Caoyang metro station. Check out the excellent Xinjiang-Uighur restaurant on Ningxia Road between the hostel and Jinshajiang metro station. We focused on sushi during our last visit. Our first attempt was at Hewei (294 Julu Lu, corner of Maoming Lu), but this tiny restaurant was packed so they sent us to their sister restaurant nearby. The business card is in Chinese, so we have no idea what that place is called, but it’s right down the street. Both places serve all-you-can-eat sushi and drink for 128 RMB – choose anything on the menu. Not as cheap as Beijing, but still a good deal.
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