In the bustling streets of Beijing, where modern skyscrapers tower over ancient hutongs, one man is preserving a tangible piece of the city’s history. Ma Tengteng, a Beijing native, has amassed a collection of over 100,000 bus tickets, each one a snapshot of the Chinese capital’s evolving public transport system.
Before the era of digital payments and IC cards, paper bus tickets were an everyday staple for commuters navigating Beijing’s vast network of routes. Today, these small slips of paper evoke a deep sense of nostalgia among residents, symbolizing a simpler time in a rapidly changing metropolis.
Preserving a Bygone Era
Ma’s collection spans decades, featuring tickets from as early as the 1920s. Each ticket tells a story—not just of the city’s transportation but of its social and economic transformations. The designs, prices, and even the paper quality reflect different eras, from pre-revolutionary China to the reform and opening-up period.
“Every ticket is a piece of history,” Ma says. “They remind us of where we’ve come from and how much the city has changed.” His passion for collecting began in childhood, sparked by a fascination with the colorful designs and the places they represented.
A Journey Through Time
Visitors to Ma’s collection embark on a journey through Beijing’s past. The earliest tickets, handwritten and ornate, give way to more standardized prints during the mid-20th century. The evolution of advertising on tickets showcases shifts in consumer culture, while fare changes reflect the city’s economic development.
“It’s like time travel,” says Li Wei, a local historian. “Ma’s collection offers invaluable insights into Beijing’s urban development and the daily lives of its people.”
Connecting Generations
For the younger generation, unfamiliar with paper tickets, the collection serves as an educational bridge to the past. “My grandchildren are amazed,” Ma smiles. “They can’t believe we used to pay with coins and paper.” The collection not only preserves history but also fosters intergenerational dialogue.
Beyond Nostalgia
While nostalgia drives much of the interest, Ma believes his collection carries a broader significance. “In an age of rapid digitalization, it’s important to remember the tactile experiences that shaped our lives,” he reflects. His efforts underscore the value of preserving everyday artifacts as cultural heritage.
Looking Ahead
Ma hopes to establish a museum to share his collection with a wider audience, emphasizing the importance of public transport in urban development. “Public transport is the lifeblood of any city,” he notes. “By understanding its history, we can better appreciate its role in our future.”
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Time travel through Beijing's century-old public transport system
cgtn.com
