Beijing has transformed its No. 5 bus line and Subway Line 8 into dedicated routes for exploring the Beijing Central Axis, offering a unique opportunity for tourists and locals alike to immerse themselves into the history and culture of the ancient city.

The No. 5 bus line, one of Beijing's longest that spans 24.8 kilometers, has been operating since 1935 and undergone various route adjustments over the years. Connecting Fengtai, Xicheng, Dongcheng, and Chaoyang districts, its route passes through several important landmarks like the Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Drum Tower. This route, often called the "Dragon Spine Line," is a popular choice for those wanting to experience the city's rich history.

Subway Line 8, which opened in 2008, has undergone several expansion phases and now runs north to south and passes through many of Beijing's cultural landmarks. Connecting a total of 34 stations, its route passes through major landmarks such as Qianmen, Wangfujing, the Drum Tower, Shichahai, and Yongdingmen Gate, earning the nickname of the “underground central axis of Beijing.”

To enhance the passenger experience and provide a deeper understanding of Beijing's cultural heritage, both lines have undergone thematic makeovers. The bus now features informative displays and audio guides, while the subway has incorporated elements of the Central Axis into its stations and trains, showcasing photos of the Central Axis, snapshots of major architectural sites along the axis, and hand-drawn landscape pictures.

Last week, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced the inclusion of the Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital, into its world heritage list.

The Beijing Central Axis, situated at the core of the ancient city, spans 7.8 kilometers from the Bell and Drum Towers in the north to the Yongdingmen Gate in the south, linking a total of 15 heritage sites.

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