Subways and Metros

Subways are trains that run under the streets of big cities. They help millions of people get to work, school, and fun places every day. Subways are fast because they don't get stuck in traffic. The first subway opened in London in 1863.

How Subways Work

Subway trains run on tracks in tunnels dug deep under the city. They get their power from an electrified rail or overhead wires. Trains stop at stations where people can get on and off. Most subways come every few minutes during busy times.

Famous Subway Systems

New York City has one of the biggest subway systems with 472 stations. The Moscow Metro is known for its beautiful stations decorated like palaces. Tokyo's subway carries over 8 million riders every day. Many cities are still building new subway lines to help with traffic.

Fun Facts

• London's Underground, called the Tube, was the world's first subway system.
• The New York City subway runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Some subway stations are over 300 feet underground, deeper than a 30-story building is tall.

Did You Know?

In Japan, subway workers called 'pushers' help pack passengers into crowded trains during rush hour. They wear white gloves and gently push people in so the doors can close!