China has always been a land of contrasts—ancient temples meet futuristic cities, spicy Sichuan hotpot coexists with high-speed rail, and traditional kung fu blends with cutting-edge tech. When internet sensation iShowSpeed (Darren Watkins Jr.) embarked on his 2025 China tour, he didn’t just visit—he vlogged his way through the country in his signature high-energy, unfiltered style.
From Shanghai’s neon skyline to Shaolin’s martial arts, Chengdu’s pandas to Shenzhen’s tech wonders, Speed’s journey was a rollercoaster of culture, food, and laughs. If you’re planning a trip to China, here’s your ultimate guide to traveling like iShowSpeed, packed with his top destinations, must-try experiences, and hilarious moments.
Speed’s Full China Itinerary (March 24 – April 2025)
1. iShowSpeed in Shanghai – The Glamorous Gateway
Speed kicked off his adventure in China’s financial hub, where modernity meets tradition.
Highlights:
- The Bund at Night: His iconic “This is my city!” moment with the dazzling skyline.
- Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Test Drive: “This is faster than my Lamborghini?!”
- Yu Garden: Ming Dynasty gardens, tea houses, and xiao long bao (soup dumplings).
- People’s Park: Joined locals in matchmaking sessions and tai chi.
Eat Like Speed:
- Jianbing (Chinese crepes) – Street food gold.
- Haidilao Hotpot – Interactive dining with noodle-dancing chefs.
2. iShowSpeed in Beijing – Where History Meets Memes
From imperial palaces to viral TikTok moments, Beijing delivered.
Must-Dos:
- The Great Wall (Mutianyu Section): Speed’s backflip attempt turned into a crowd-cheering stunt.
- Forbidden City: His emperor cosplay (“Where’s my concubine?”) was pure comedy.
- Hutongs: Explored narrow alleys by rickshaw, snacking on jianbing and Peking duck.
Local Tip: Visit Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City—best at sunset!
3. iShowSpeed in Henan – Kung Fu & Pain (But Worth It)
At Shaolin Temple, Speed learned the hard way: “It’s pain, but it’s life… it’s Shaolin!”
Unmissable Experiences:
- Martial Arts Training: Tried (and failed) nunchucks but nailed a dramatic kung fu pose.
- Pagoda Forest: Ancient monk tombs with wild legends.
- Vegetarian Shaolin Feast: Surprisingly delicious tofu dishes.
4. iShowSpeed in Chengdu & Chongqing – Spicy Food & Pandas
Speed’s face after Sichuan hotpot? Priceless.
Chengdu Highlights:
- Panda Base: His high-pitched “Awwww!” meeting baby pandas.
- Wide & Narrow Alleys: Tea-tasting and face-changing opera.
Chongqing Thrills:
- Hongyadong’s Night Lights: “This is Hogwarts?!” – His reaction to the cliffside neon maze.
- 8D City Illusions: Roads that loop into buildings, elevators that open to streets.
5. iShowSpeed in Hong Kong – East Meets West
Speed’s Hong Kong adventure was packed with unique cultural experiences:
Cultural Highlights:
- Temple Street Night Market: Tried snake soup and stinky tofu (with hilarious reactions)
- Wong Tai Sin Temple: Fortune telling session that predicted “more viral content”
- Avenue of Stars: Bruce Lee statue pose recreation
- Star Ferry: Classic harbor crossing with skyline views
Food Adventures:
- Egg waffles at Lee Keung Kee (North Point)
- Pineapple buns at Kam Wah Cafe
- Dim sum at Tim Ho Wan (the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant)
- Bubble tea from multiple street vendors
Unique Experiences:
- Rode the Ding Ding tram while live-streaming
- Took the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak (despite foggy views)
- Visited Ocean Park to see pandas “家姐” and “细佬”
- Explored Temple Street’s fortune tellers
Viral Moments:
Reacting to Hong Kong’s dense urban landscape (“These buildings are stacked like LEGO!”)
Attempted Cantonese phrases that became instant memes
Bargaining at the Ladies’ Market (ended up paying double)
6. iShowSpeed in Shenzhen – China’s Tech Wonderland
Speed’s most futuristic stop—where he geeked out over drones, AI, and electric cars.
Tech Adventures:
- BYD U8 Test Drive: “This car can float on water?!”
- Huawei Flagship Store: Bought three foldable phones in one go.
- Drone-Delivered KFC: “China is living in 3025!”
Bonus: Got scolded by Shenzhen police for sticking his head out of a luxury car—live on stream!
FAQs
1.How many days do I need for a Speed-style China trip?
At least 14–18 days to cover Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, Hongkong and Shenzhen comfortably.
2.Is China visa-free for tourists?
Some nationalities get 72/144-hour transit visas. Check Here for updates.
3.What’s the best way to travel between cities?
High-speed trains (e.g., Beijing-Shanghai in 4.5 hrs) or domestic flights.
4.How do I avoid Speed’s “spicy food regret”?
sk for wei la (mild spice) in Sichuan. Milk or yogurt helps cool the burn!
5.Can I visit Shaolin Temple without martial arts skills?
Absolutely! Morning shows display monk skills—no fighting required.
More
1.Regional Visa-Free Entry Policies for Foreign Nationals: https://en.nia.gov.cn/n147418/n147463/c180637/content.html