To facilitate track maintenance, the Maglev line's operation mode has been adjusted from dual-track to single-track operation.
G'day mates! Have you noticed something exciting happening in Shanghai? The Maglev train's speed is back to its thrilling 431 km/h! From 16 June to 20 September 2025, the Shanghai Maglev line will temporarily switch from dual-track to single-track operation for maintenance. While this might sound like a reduction in capacity, for transport enthusiasts, it means the return of the exhilarating "ground flight" experience at top speed!
Some of you might be wondering, isn't the Shanghai Maglev always running at 431 km/h? Well, not quite. For years, the train has mostly operated at an "economic speed" of 300 km/h to save energy and reduce wear and tear. Only during specific hours could you experience the full 431 km/h. But with the single-track operation, the train needs to zip back and forth on one track, making top speed runs a regular occurrence. This is a golden opportunity for those who want to experience the Maglev's true power or make up for missed chances. From Longyang Road to Pudong Airport, the journey takes less than 8 minutes, with the wind roaring past and the scenery flashing by.
So, how can you seize this chance for a thrilling "chase the wind" adventure? Here's a handy guide for you:
1. Confirm Operating Times
Event window: 16 June to 20 September 2025.
High-speed periods: In single-track mode, theoretically, any operating time could reach 431 km/h. However, based on past experience, the periods from 9:00-10:45 and 15:00-15:45 are guaranteed "speed moments." To ensure you don't miss out, aim for these golden hours.
2. Ticket Purchase and Boarding
Ticket price: A standard one-way ticket is 50 yuan, and a return ticket is 80 yuan. If you have a same-day flight ticket, you can purchase a one-way ticket at a discounted price of 40 yuan.
How to buy: Tickets can be purchased at the Maglev station's self-service machines or service centre, or you can simply swipe your Shanghai Public Transport Card or use the "Metro Dàdūhuì" app's ride code to scan and enter, making it very convenient.
3. Experience Tips
Choose a good spot: Try to sit in the carriages at the front or back to better feel the acceleration and dynamics of the train.
Watch the speed screen: Once on board, the most important thing is to keep an eye on the speed display above the carriage connections! Watching the numbers climb from 0 to 431 is an unparalleled thrill.
Be ready to record: The whole process is very quick, so if you want to capture the journey, make sure your phone or camera is ready. Once the speed surpasses 400 km/h, the scenery outside takes on a unique flowing effect, definitely worth capturing.
This "return" lasts for about three months, covering the entire summer holiday. Whether you're visiting Shanghai or a local, make sure to find time to relive or experience for the first time this unique speed and excitement that belongs to Shanghai. After all, this is the world's only commercially operated ultra-high-speed Maglev line, and every full-speed journey is a precious experience. Once the maintenance period ends, the Maglev might return to its usual 300 km/h mode. So, don't miss out, mates!
Feel free to share your "chase the wind" experience in the comments and let me know how it felt to ride the Maglev at 431 km/h!
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