Beijing’s bustling public transport system has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Before digital payments and IC cards became a staple for commuters, paper bus tickets were the everyday norm. These simple tickets not only facilitated travel but also held memories for countless residents of the city.
Today, there's a new appreciation for these once-obsolete items. Many of Beijing's long-time residents feel a wave of nostalgia when they see these paper tickets, transforming them into precious collectibles. Among the most passionate collectors is Ma Tengteng, a native of Beijing, who has amassed an impressive collection of over 100,000 tickets.
Ma’s collection offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it provides a tangible tour through the history of Beijing’s public transport. Each ticket represents a moment in time, capturing the evolution of the city’s infrastructure and the daily lives of its people. Visitors to Ma’s exhibit can trace the development of bus routes, the introduction of new technologies, and the changing face of Beijing over the decades.
For young global citizens, business and tech enthusiasts, and travelers alike, Ma’s collection is a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and community that drives one of the world’s most dynamic capitals. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and an inspiration for the future of urban mobility.
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Time travel through Beijing's century-old public transport system
cgtn.com
