Scan the QR code on your train seat armrest. Pick a restaurant at a station two stops ahead. Your food arrives at your seat as the train pulls in. This is not a pilot programme. It is how China's high-speed rail works today. ## How it actually works There are two ways to order, both confirmed in Shanghai's official government guide (December 2024): Before boarding — via the 12306 app: Open the Railway 12306 app, enter your train number, choose a pick-up point at an upcoming station, browse food options, add your seat number, and pay. Minimum lead time: one hour before delivery. After boarding — scan the QR code on your armrest: Use WeChat to scan the QR code on your seat. The train's details auto-populate. Browse restaurants, select items, confirm your seat number, pay via Alipay or WeChat Pay. Food choices include traditional Chinese dishes, Western-style meals, vegetarian…