Taizhou Launches Breakfast-Themed Tourist Train from Shanghai to Boost Rail-Tourism Integration

On 25 April, the first Shanghai–Taizhou tourist train, themed around Taizhou’s renowned morning tea, departed, carrying a large group of Shanghai visitors to Jiangsu’s Taizhou. The journey offers them a chance to savour local delicacies and explore the region’s iconic water-town scenery.

Operating under the backdrop of Taizhou’s home matches in the 2026 Jiangsu Super League (JS Super League), the city plans to run such themed tourist trains on a regular basis. This initiative aims to deepen the integration of “railway plus cultural tourism”, driving regional tourism growth and economic vitality.

The maiden voyage, operated by China Railway Shanghai Group, ran as service C3852, departing Shanghai Railway Station at 7:50 am. It carried over 200 passengers on a two-day, one-night “slow-water-town life” experience. Upon arrival, visitors were treated to a full flavour of Taizhou’s famed breakfast culture—including signature dishes such as dried shredded tofu, fish soup noodles and crab soup dumplings.

Beyond dining, the itinerary includes strolls through the ancient Qintong Old Town, known as the “Pearl of Water Towns”, and night cruises along the Fengcheng River, where traditional folk performances blend with riverside scenery. The themed train features immersive interior design showcasing Taizhou’s cultural symbols, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the journey.

Taizhou’s push for regular themed trains builds on its successful hosting of JS Super League fixtures. As the defending champions, the city has become a focal point for football fans across the province. By aligning train services with match dates, Taizhou seeks to convert sports-event audiences into cultural-tourism visitors.

According to the Taizhou Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports, the “railway plus cultural tourism” model strengthens regional links between Shanghai and Jiangsu. It also amplifies the city’s dual branding as both a “JS Super League champion city” and a “homeland of morning tea”. Industry observers note that the project will further promote the high-quality development of cultural tourism in the Yangtze River Delta, enriching consumer experiences and boosting local economic growth.