Blueprint of Beijing as world city – A city where every dream can be fufilled

The Beijing Olympic Games brought with it a new era of openness and development in this historical capital. But where will the newfound spirit take this once-closed city by 2030?

Beijing a city like no other – Evolving on its own terms

On December 11, 2001, China formally joined the World Trade Organization, which meant agreeing to follow global rules on imports, exports and foreign investments.

Solution to traffic war – expanded subway essential to city

The Beijing subway is a rapid transit rail network that serves urban and suburban districts. Its first line opened in 1971, and today is the oldest and busiest subway on the Chinese mainland, and the second longest following Shanghai’s network.

New symbols of 21st-century Beijing – Developing the next landmark

Beijing has long been recognized for the ancient architecture exemplified in Tian’anmen Square and the Imperial Palace.

New face for old Beijing – Saving the capital’s old hutong and coutryards

The hutong and courtyard homes that dot central Beijing are among the city’s most unique symbols. But the radical modernization policy of recent years has resulted in a leveling of the cultural relics in favor of boring, boxy buildings.

Financial dream – Capital aims to be a global financial hub

Beijing or Shanghai? There was once a war of words over which city should be the country’s financial center. Amid controversy, the Beijing municipal government is speeding up efforts to build itself as a financial hub.

The city as seen by its expats

Beijing may aim to be a world city, but what do its foreign residents think of this goal? Despite being an essential group in any world city, the planners have given little consideration to their opinions.

How foreigners see Beijing – Long-time expats share their thoughts about his ever-changing city

Is Beijing ready to be a world city? Beijing Today talked to three long-term foreign residents to see how the city has impacted their lives.

A shabby neighborhood reborn – That transformation of Wudaoying

People are attracted to charming old hutong, but so are businesses. So when places like Nanluogu Xiang become over-commercialized, rent increases force out shop- and bar-owners, and with them its slow and leisurely pace of life.

Accessible to all – Public art explores relationship between people and city

Urban life becomes monotonous when every city has the same things – skyscrapers, viaducts and shopping malls.