Olympic Forest Park

A magnificent green legacy from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, this sprawling urban park combines Olympic heritage with natural beauty

Olympic Forest Park

Key Information

Area

680 hectares

Year Built

2008

Main Features

Olympic Axis, Forest Areas, Lakes, Observation Tower

Best Time to Visit

Spring and Autumn

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible paths throughout

Transportation

Subway Line 8 Olympic Forest Park Station

Annual Visitors

Over 10 million

Ecological Zones

5 distinct ecological areas

Water Features

3 main lakes covering 67 hectares

Plant Species

Over 100,000 trees of 280 species

Olympic Forest Park is the largest urban green space in Beijing, covering 680 hectares in the northern part of the city. Built as the green lung for the 2008 Summer Olympics, this park represents Chinas commitment to environmental sustainability and urban planning excellence. The park seamlessly integrates the iconic Olympic venues like the Birds Nest Stadium and Water Cube with lush forests, serene lakes, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It serves as both a recreational haven for Beijing residents and a living testament to the Olympic spirit of harmony between humanity and nature. The parks design incorporates traditional Chinese garden aesthetics with modern ecological principles, creating a perfect balance between natural preservation and urban functionality.

Things to Do

  • Walk along the Olympic Axis to see the Birds Nest and Water Cube
  • Rent a bicycle to explore the extensive network of cycling paths
  • Take a boat ride on the scenic Olympic Lake
  • Visit the Olympic Forest Park Observation Tower for panoramic views
  • Explore the diverse plant collections in the botanical garden sections
  • Enjoy seasonal flower displays especially cherry blossoms in spring
  • Have a picnic in the designated green spaces
  • Visit the Olympic Heritage Exhibition Center
  • Practice tai chi or other exercises in the morning
  • Photograph the stunning sunset over the Olympic venues

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