Beijing residents can now experience the atmosphere of a traditional Chinese market although riding the subway, as the city’s first “Beijing Flavor, Welcoming the New Year” themed market opened Friday at the Olympic Park Station on the 15th line.
The market, a collaboration between Beijing Subway and Beijing Radio and Television Station, aims to blend the festive spirit of the upcoming Spring Festival with the city’s unique cultural charm, according to a statement released by Beijing Subway.
Stalls within the market offer a variety of cultural and creative products, including refrigerator magnets representing different subway stations – challenging passengers to guess the station depicted – official train models, and themed blind boxes, reported the Beijing Daily.
The market also features a selection of popular beverages and local specialties, providing refreshments for those celebrating the New Year.
Zhang Ziyan, Deputy General Manager of Beijing Subway Resource Development Company, described the market as an “innovative practice” in integrating “subway + commercial” development. He stated that the initiative transforms subway stations into “convenient lifestyle hubs” and adds a festive touch to commuters’ journeys, according to the Beijing Daily.
The market will operate in two phases. The first phase runs from February 13th to February 15th, and the second phase will be held from February 20th (the fourth day of the Lunar New Year) to February 22nd (the sixth day of the Lunar New Year). Daily operating hours are from 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
The market is located in the interchange hall of the Olympic Park Station. Beijing Subway has carefully planned the market’s operating schedule to accommodate both passenger traffic and shopping, according to reports.
