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Modern Beijing （现代北京）

15 September 2008 13 Comments

Beijing Skyline

Like many megalopolis in the world, Beijing has two sides: a modern one and an old one.

Most foreigners visiting Beijing for the first time will likely be amazed by the city’s size, its huge boulevards that don’t seem to end, its spotless sidewalks, its tall buildings and huge shopping malls. China borrowed from the West and you can now find McDonalds （麦当劳), Starbucks (星巴克), KFC (肯德基） and other “delicacies” everywhere.

The city got a facelift before the Olympics. There were only two subway lines until 2000 but it rapidly expanded to 8 lines and 123 stations after 2001, and additional lines are still under constructions. It is now the easiest way to navigate the city… Meanwhile, Beijing’s airport underwent a major expansion, adding the new Terminal 3, the world’s largest airport terminal. Brand new skyscrapers, the kind Chinese people used to see in Shanghai and Hong Kong appeared on the city skyline. The famous Silk Market was relocated in a modern building and pedestrian streets such as Wangfujing (王府井） were renovated.

The city has changed. Some regret it, some praise it, some love it, some hate it.

13 Comments »

Graham said:

WOW! Zhu, you have really captured some great scenes here. I think this really brings home how much impact the Olympics has on a city. And I can understand exactly the feeling of both sides… those that are saddened by the change and those that are happy. I wonder what changes will happen here in England, as they progress with the preparation for the next Games in 2012. If you are planning to come to the UK to see any of that show, then my door will always open for you both, and you would be very welcome.

Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience with us all, it has been so enjoyable
Grahams last great read…A little preview of where I live and work

# 15 September 2008 at 6:52 pm

DianeCA said:

The modern architecture is amazing. You took some really great shots as well. I think its a bit of a shame with the shopping centres though, the small shops and street vendors have so much more charm.

DianeCAs last great read…Fall is here in Norway

# 15 September 2008 at 7:43 pm