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Tourism GuideA field guide to China

Beijing · Attraction

Olympic Park

A modern architectural marvel built for the 2008 Summer Olympics showcasing Chinas technological prowess and cultural heritage

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Olympic Park
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Why go

About Olympic Park

The Beijing Olympic Park also known as the Olympic Green is a sprawling complex that hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics This iconic site represents Chinas emergence as a global superpower and showcases cuttingedge architectural design The parks centerpiece is the Birds Nest National Stadium an architectural masterpiece designed by Swiss architects Herzog de Meuron with Chinese artist Ai Weiwei The stadiums intricate steel structure resembles a birds nest symbolizing harmony between nature and human achievement Adjacent stands the Water Cube National Aquatics Center whose bubblelike facade changes colors at night creating a magical spectacle The park also features the Olympic Forest Park a massive green space that serves as Beijings lung providing ecological balance to the city Visitors can explore the Olympic Tower offering panoramic views of the entire complex and the surrounding city The site continues to host major sporting events and cultural performances making it a living legacy of the 2008 Games

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Explore the Birds Nest National Stadium and learn about its innovative architectural design
  2. 02Visit the Water Cube National Aquatics Center and admire its changing LED light displays
  3. 03Take the elevator to the Olympic Tower observation deck for panoramic city views
  4. 04Walk through the Olympic Forest Park and enjoy its tranquil lakes and gardens
  5. 05Visit the Olympic Museum to learn about the history of the 2008 Games
  6. 06Attend a sporting event or concert at one of the venues
  7. 07Photograph the iconic structures especially at night when they are beautifully illuminated
  8. 08Enjoy a leisurely bike ride around the parks extensive pathways
  9. 09Visit the underground shopping complex for souvenirs and local crafts
  10. 10Experience the Olympic Spirit Square and its interactive exhibits

Good to know

Construction Year
2003-2008
Total Area
1,135 hectares
Main Architect
Herzog de Meuron (Birds Nest)
Olympic Games Hosted
2008 Summer Olympics
Annual Visitors
Over 10 million
Notable Events
2008 Olympics Opening Ceremony 2022 Winter Olympics venues
Architectural Style
Modernist with Chinese elements
Sustainability Features
Rainwater collection solar energy green roofs

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