So close, but so far

Despite the close distance, the development of Yanjiao still lags far behind that of Beijing.

"During rainy days, traffic lights often break down and the streets are severely waterlogged," Zhao said. "In my community where at least tens of thousands of people live, I can hardly find any fitness equipment."

In 2013, Zhao picked up her daughter from her hometown and sent her to a local primary school which was said to be one of the best.

"There are more than 80 students in my daughter's class and sometimes the teacher has to use a loudspeaker to make her voice heard to all the students," Zhao said.

She said that one time, she sent her daughter to a hospital in Beijing for an injured ear because, "Beijing has the best resources."

The only exception to the rule was in food. Restaurants can be found everywhere in Yanjiao.