When American YouTube superstar IShowSpeed (Darren Watkins Jr.) landed in Shanghai on March 24, 2025, his high-energy, unfiltered streaming style collided with China’s futuristic metropolis—and the result was pure viral gold.
From jaw-dropping skyscrapers to a high-speed Xiaomi SU7 ride, a ping-pong showdown with Jackson Wang, and even a KFC taste test, Speed’s first day in China was a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and cultural discovery.
This blog post breaks down every iconic moment, reaction, and behind-the-scenes detail from his explosive Shanghai debut—a day that racked up 5.4 million YouTube views and reshaped how Gen Z sees China 7.
1. Arrival in Shanghai: “This City Looks Like the FUTURE!”
Speed’s first livestream began the moment he stepped into Shanghai Pudong International Airport, where he was immediately stunned by the city’s skyline.
Local Guide Introduction: A bilingual guide joined him, helping navigate the city and explaining cultural nuances—something Speed fans rarely see in Western media.
“BRO, THESE BUILDINGS ARE TOUCHING THE CLOUDS!” – His first reaction to the Shanghai Tower (632m) and Jin Mao Tower.
Cultural Shock Moment: He compared Shanghai to “Cyberpunk 2077 but REAL”, marveling at the neon-lit streets and ultra-modern infrastructure.
2. Ping-Pong Battle with Jackson Wang: “I Lost My Miami Mansion?!”
By late morning, Speed hit the streets of Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s iconic shopping strip. “This is like Times Square on steroids!” he yelled, spinning his camera to capture the neon signs, endless shops, and buzzing crowds. Known as one of the world’s busiest pedestrian streets, it was the perfect playground for his chaotic energy. Fans swarmed him for photos—despite YouTube’s restrictions in China, his fame transcended borders. He even tried some Mandarin, shouting “Ni hao!” to cheers from locals. Nanjing Road is a must-visit for anyone exploring Shanghai, and Speed’s reaction proved why.
2. Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Test Drive: “This Electric Car Beats My Lamborghini?!”
One of the biggest highlights of Day 1 was Speed’s test drive in the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, China’s newest 1,526-horsepower electric supercar.
- “This car is faster than my Huracán?!” – Speed’s disbelief as the SU7 accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 2.78 seconds .
- Tech Reactions: He freaked out over the AI voice assistant, panoramic roof, and “why is this car smarter than me?!”
- Behind the Scenes: The test drive was part of China’s push to showcase cutting-edge EV technology to global audiences .
4. Food Adventures: KFC, Dumplings & Face-Changing Magic
Speed’s culinary journey was just as wild as his car rides.
A. Chinese KFC Taste Test
- “Why does KFC taste BETTER in China?!” – He tried spicy chicken wings, egg tarts, and congee, shocked at the menu differences.
- Fan Debate: Viewers argued whether US or Chinese KFC is superior in the livestream chat.
B. Sichuan Opera “Bian Lian” (Face-Changing)
- “HOW DID HE CHANGE MASKS SO FAST?!” – Speed’s mind blown by the traditional Sichuan opera art, where performers swap masks in milliseconds.
- Cultural Deep Dive: His guide explained the 500-year-old history behind the performance, which Speed called “the coolest thing I’ve ever seen.”
5. Jackie Chan Tease & Fan Frenzy
Before ending his stream, Speed hinted at a future collab with Jackie Chan, sending fans into a frenzy.
- “Me and Jackie Chan might do something crazy…” – His cryptic message sparked #SpeedInChina trends on Twitter/X .
- Fan Theories: Some speculate a kung fu challenge, others predict a movie cameo.
Why Day 1 Went Viral: Breaking Western Stereotypes
Speed’s unfiltered reactions did something rare: showed China’s modernity without political filters.
- 5.4 million views in 24 hours – Proof that Gen Z craves authentic travel content.
- Global Media Reactions:
- “IShowSpeed is doing more for US-China relations than diplomats.” – Fan comment.
- “He’s debunking ‘scary China’ myths just by having fun.” – Analyst on Xiaohongshu.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next?
If Day 1 was this explosive, imagine Beijing (Great Wall backflips!), Chengdu (pandas?), and Hong Kong.
Stay tuned for Day 2 breakdown—where Speed tries real Sichuan hotpot!