Shenzhen's Gangxia North Metro Station: Exploring China's Underground Marvel

UNBELIEVABLE Infrastructure | China’s MIND-BLOWING metro station

Destination:ChinaCity:ShenzhenPopulation:17.6 million
UNBELIEVABLE Infrastructure | China’s MIND-BLOWING metro station
Nico2024-01-228 min

China has built many amazing infrastructure megaprojects in the last few years.

Travel across the country and you will see entire megacities popping up out of seemingly nowhere, connected by high-speed rail and epic highways.

But here in Shenzhen, the planners have turned their attention underground. The Gangxia metro station is a subway hub unlike any I have ever seen before.

It is bright, airy and cathedral-like, and, as we discover in this video, it has some pretty unusual features.

--- Nico
January 22, 2024, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00China's extensive metro systems
  2. 0:28Arrival in Shenzhen
  3. 1:21First impressions of station
  4. 1:31Face recognition challenge
  5. 2:58Epic metro station
  6. 3:32Glasshouse design
  7. 4:37Augmented reality feature
  8. 5:30Architectural design details
  9. 6:30Station's busy atmosphere
  10. 7:47Departure for next destination

Nico explores Shenzhen's stunning Gangxia North Station, a bright, airy underground marvel. Unique design, unexpected challenges, and a captivating experience await!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Using QR codes for entry is a common method in China, reflecting the country's advanced mobile payment systems. Be prepared for this and download the necessary apps before your trip. (1:54)
  2. Tip 2If your Alipay isn't working, using a ticket machine is always an option, though it might be a bit less convenient than using mobile payment. Ensure you have enough cash. (2:10)
  3. Tip 3The glasshouse design of the station is a great example of sustainable and innovative architecture. Look out for similar environmentally friendly designs in other parts of China. (3:44)
  4. Tip 4Many modern attractions in China incorporate augmented reality (AR) technology. Download the relevant apps to enhance your experience and discover hidden features. (4:37)
  5. Tip 5Finding a place to sit in busy transit stations can be difficult. Be prepared to stand for a while, especially during peak hours. Alternatively, consider using the restrooms, which often have seating. (7:05)

Explore Shenzhen's breathtaking Gangxia North Station with Nico, a marvel of underground architecture. This isn't your typical metro station; it's a bright, airy, cathedral-like space with unique features. Nico's journey includes navigating face recognition technology, and discovering the station's ingenious design, incorporating natural light and noise reduction. Don't miss this captivating exploration of China's innovative infrastructure!

More about the current video:( 1 / 13 )

UNBELIEVABLE Infrastructure | China’s MIND-BLOWING metro station

This video follows Nico's exploration of the Gangxia North metro station in Shenzhen, China, a truly remarkable feat of engineering and design. The station's scale and innovative features are immediately striking, defying typical perceptions of underground transit hubs. Nico's initial attempt to enter using facial recognition technology proves unsuccessful, highlighting a humorous cultural exchange. He resorts to a QR code and eventually a ticket machine, showcasing the evolution of payment methods in China.

The station's design is a key focus, described as bright, airy, and cathedral-like, a stark contrast to the often dark and dull underground stations found elsewhere. A significant design element is a glasshouse structure that houses the metro line, effectively reducing noise and pollution while maintaining track quality. This unique design choice is praised for creating a more pleasant environment for commuters.

The video also highlights the station's popularity, with many people taking photos and videos, underscoring its architectural significance. An augmented reality (AR) feature allows users to scan a code and see animals superimposed on the station's architecture, adding a playful element to the experience. Nico's commentary emphasizes the use of natural light and LEDs, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that combats the sterile feeling often associated with man-made structures.

The station's functionality is also showcased, with Nico observing its busy nature as an interchange station for four different lines. He even comments on the lack of seating, a common issue in busy transit stations. The video concludes with Nico's visit to the station's restrooms, which he finds aesthetically pleasing, and a brief glimpse of the next destination on his journey. Overall, the video provides a unique and engaging look at a modern marvel of Chinese infrastructure, highlighting both its impressive design and its everyday functionality.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What was the biggest challenge Nico faced at the metro station?
A: Getting through the face recognition system! It didn't recognize me at first, so I had to use my phone and then the ticket machine.
Q: What was Nico's first impression of the Gangxia North Station?
A: It was just as epic as it looks online! It doesn't feel like a typical metro station at all, it's bright, airy, and shiny.
Q: What's special about the design of the station?
A: It has a glasshouse that houses the metro line to reduce noise and pollution, and it uses natural light and LEDs to make it feel less sterile.
Q: What did Nico think about the AR experience at the station?
A: It was fun! I could scan a code and see animals like giraffes and zebras on my screen. Jack seemed more interested in the architecture, though.
Q: What was the atmosphere like at the station?
A: It was incredibly busy, especially on a Friday night. There weren't many places to sit down, though!

Shenzhen's Gangxia North Metro Station: Exploring China's Underground Marvel

China has built many amazing infrastructure megaprojects in the last few years. Travel across the country and you will see entire megacities popping up out of seemingly nowhere, connected by high-speed rail and epic highways. But here in Shenzhen, the planners have turned their attention...

Shenzhen's Gangxia North Station: A Stunning Metro Hub

Explore Shenzhen's breathtaking Gangxia North metro station, a subterranean marvel unlike any other. Witness its stunning architecture and unique features in this captivating video journey through China's incredible infrastructure.

Attractions in this video: Gangxia North Station