Commuters using Metro line 2 in Shanghai will be able to take a special train decorated with William Shakespeare quotes. Metro authorities -- along with the local British Consulate -- created the train to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death.

The train started to run along Metro line 2 this morning. 48 quotes from Shakespeare in both English and Chinese have been printed on the subway handles for commuters to read as they make their way across the city.

SH metro decorated with Shakespeare quotes

"I think this is a place where people meet, I mean this is a such central piece of infrastructure for the city, and that's a lovely quote in Shakespeare's work where he declares all the world's a stage, and talks through different stages of our lives, making the point that we all play different roles, and different characters in our life time," said Matt Knowles, Area Director of British Council East China.

Metro authorities also issued a Day Pass today with Shakespeare's portrait on it, as well as pass featuring Chinese poet Tang Xianzu and the Spanish writer Cervantes who also died 400 years ago. The pass and train are part of a year-long campaign to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death. Other activities such performances of some of the Bard's plays, including the Merchant of Venice and Hamlet, will be held throughout the year.

"I think it's a good way to let people remember Shakespeare, but I'm not sure if many people would notice it in the subway because it's busy. "

Authorities say the special train will run until the end of December.