Reply To: Accessible transportation in Beijing

  • Jiahui

    Member
    February 8, 2021 at 6:34 pm

    I think subway is the best choice.

    When I am in Beijing, I search the accessibility information on the Official Accounts called 创益行(chuang, yi, xing)on wechat before hanging out, it would tell me everything about the subway station, such as the elevator, the accessible toiler, etc.

    Actually, the Beijing subway, especially the new lines, are pretty accessible, and when I enter the station, the subway staff member will come to help me get on the subway.

    But remember, think twice and search more information when you try to take line 1 and 2. Since these two lines are quite old, there are some stations that do not have accessibilities. Some do have, but they are not so good. And since line 1 and 2 is in the center of Beijing, so if you want to visit places like the Imperial Palace (in the center), maybe you’d better try other transportation. But if you want to visit Summer Palace (can be reached by line 4), you can go without hesitation, since it’s pretty accessible.

    Besides, I heard from my friend that the company Didi (Chinese version Uber) has the service for wheelchair users. The drivers have been trained on how to service us. I haven’t tried it. But I guess in 2022 (Beijing Winter Olympics) things would be better.

    By the way, I have also taken bus in Beijing, since I saw the accessible sign on the bus. But the driver are unwilling to put down the board which can let me get on, maybe because he is busy. Luckily, other passengers are very nice to help me (although my wheelchair is heavy). So if you do need to take bus, you can try it (but you’d better go with your friend).

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