China is characterized by its impressive infrastructure and transportation systems. The subway is no exception, as the city's train system is in place Beijing It is the longest in terms of route length and is used most frequently on the entire planet. Cover a total of 836 kilometers. In addition, it serves at least 13 million people every day.
This system is also the Asian giant's oldest as it began operations 1969. It is also seven times longer than the Chilean train system, considered the largest in South America.
The Beijing subway has a history of more than 50 years and is the oldest in China. Photo: Francisco Claros/La República
The Beijing subway, the largest and most used in the world
He Beijing subway There are more than 10,000 trains. During peak hours these are at least two minutes apart to ensure attentive service.
The official inauguration took place on October 1, 1969. In its early days it was only 24 kilometers long. Changes have been made to the train system over the years. This was due, among other things, to the various events that took place in the capital of China, such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and the city's population growth.
All these improvements have allowed it to exceed the length of the Shanghai subway, as well as other train systems that operate in the world's major metropolises such as New York, London or Moscow. Photo: Francisco Claros/La República
All these improvements have allowed it to exceed the length of the Shanghai subway, as well as other train systems that operate in the world's major metropolises such as New York, London or Moscow.
What is it like to travel on the Beijing subway, the oldest in China?
The Beijing subway has more than 400 stations. To gain access to them, it is first necessary to go through a security check, which ensures that users are not carrying firearms, sharp objects or other objects that could endanger the physical integrity of the other passengers.
Once you're on the subway, you can buy your ticket virtually or with cash. If you choose this last option, you will receive a ticket to travel on the aforementioned train. Another alternative is virtual payment via QR code. You can use paid apps such as Alipey for this. The minimum amount is 3 yuan (0.14 US dollars).
The Beijing subway has more than 400 stations. Photo: Francisco Claros/La República
What is unique about this transportation system is that the Yanfang Line is fully automated, so these units do not require a driver to move from one station to another. Additionally, operating in a city of nearly 22 million people, the units are typically full of passengers. It can even transport up to 13 million people in a single day.