Discovering Beijing’s industrial-strength beauty

In its heyday, Factory 718 would have been a model production unit. Its work force benefited considerably from excellent housing, and there were a host of extracurricular and sporting opportunities available. Photographs I came across in cafes and bookshops during my visits show a miniature city, with soccer and basketball teams, and even an orchestra.

Producing a wide variety of military and civilian equipment, Factory 718 was split into compact units after 10 years of operation that include today's more familiar 798 and 751. A steam locomotive with the number 0751 stands as an exhibit today alongside the former coal yard.

While the main factory and assembly areas are fascinating to explore, I have always been more intrigued by the vast chemical production units. It is amazing to walk amidst a great mixture of steel tanks, pipes and towers. These amazing areas for photography have featured as backdrops for fashion shows and musical events.