Dongchang Rd, Line 2 (my station)
As a New Yorker, I have a preference for the NYC Transit Subways. However, as an English-speaker, I find it much easier to navigate the Shanghai subway system. Hardly a soul you encounter on the street may speak English, but all the signs are subtitled in English and the station design is superior to anything I have seen in the United States.
When I first rode the subway, Mei asked me to try calling her. “Is there reception in the subway?” I asked. “Of course,” she said to my surprise. Occasionally, you’ll hear a loud phone conversation, but the Shanghainese are usually pretty good about not using cell phones excessively in small public spaces. Thank goodness there’s no reception in the NYC subways. There are also television screens in each car.
No Jumping Sign
Pushing is necessary etiquette to depart the subway train. It’s almost dangerous to stand near the doors if you’re not leaving at the next station.
Subway Turnstile
The Shanghai subway operates much like D.C.’s in that you have to swipe on your way in and out. The card scanners are so good here that I can leave my card in my wallet, quickly slide my wallet over the large green circle pictured above, and proceed to move through the turnstile. No fumbling for metrocards in purses required.
Subway Lanes
The people on the left side are within the subway system; on the right side, they’ve left or are entering. The signs all have large numbers and are extremely clear.
Subway Fence & Sign
Notice the height of the fence, the barrier between those in the subway and those about to enter. It’s between waist and shoulder height. New Yorkers would hop it in a second.