A metro train themed on Beijing’s Central Axis, the core of Beijing that runs 7.8 kilometers from south to north, was put into operation on Beijing’s metro line 8 on Feb 4.

Launched by Beijing Central Axis Protection Foundation and Beijing Subway, the themed metro train runs until Aug 4. The exterior and interior designs and the platform screen door decorations are done by Beijing Institute of Graphic Communication’s school of arts and design.

Beijing’s metro line 8, spanning 49 kilometers and with 34 stations, traverses through Beijing and connects Daxing district in Beijing’s south with Changping district in the north. Many of its stations correspond with representative sites along the Central Axis, including Yongding Gate, Qianmen Street, and Drum Tower.

According to Beijing Subway, it will continue to launch culture themed metro trains to enrich the passengers’ traveling experience and bring cultural heritage closer to them, so that citizens will become more acquainted with heritage sites and more enthusiastic to participate in heritage preservation.

Apart from integrating the architectural elements of 15 heritage sites into the designs, the train also offers a digital experience. By scanning the QR codes on the train, passengers can learn about the Central Axis’ culture and history in detail and try out the interactive AI features.