From the Seine to the Thames, iconic waterways define cities – and Beijing's Liangma River is writing its own story. Since 2022, this 9-kilometer corridor has transformed into the capital's cultural nerve center, blending green spaces with cosmopolitan energy.
Weekends see yoga enthusiasts flowing through poses near tech workers brainstorming over artisanal coffee. Street food vendors serving jianbing (savory crepes) share sidewalks with expats sampling craft beers. Nightfall brings open-air concerts under neon-lit skyscrapers – a 78% surge in evening visitors since revitalization began.
'It's where old Beijing meets global culture,' says Shanghai-born photographer Li Wei, capturing skateboarders weaving through retirees practicing tai chi. The river's bike lanes now handle 15,000+ daily commuters, while floating bookstores and pop-up galleries drive creative exchanges.
Urban planners highlight its role in sustainable city development: solar-powered docks for electric boats and AI-assisted waste management systems make Liangma a testbed for eco-innovation. As cities worldwide rethink public spaces, Beijing's liquid lounge offers inspiration – and proof that concrete jungles can grow greener roots.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
