Nanjing Olympic Sports Center

What are the most recommended things to do in Nanjing Olympic Sports Center?

Visitors can enjoy watching sports events at the stadium, take a tour of the Olympic facilities, or explore the surrounding parks. You can also participate in outdoor sports activities or attend concerts and cultural events held at the venue.

Introducing Nanjing Olympic Sports Center

Located in Hexi New Town, Jianye District, Nanjing, the Nanjing Olympic Sports Center is a Class A stadium in Asia and a representative example of the world's fifth-generation sports architecture. The Nanjing Olympic Sports Center served as the main venue for the 2005 10th National Games, the 2013 Nanjing Asian Youth Games, and the 2014 Nanjing Youth Olympic Games, as well as the home stadium of Jiangsu Suning Football Club.

The Nanjing Olympic Sports Center is a multifunctional, national-level complex. Its main buildings are "four venues and two centers," including a stadium (including a training ground), a gymnasium, a natatorium, a tennis hall, a sports technology center, and a cultural and sports entrepreneurship center. It covers an area of 897,000 square meters, with a construction area of 400,000 square meters. The center boasts a greening rate of 48%, and a water area of 59,000 square meters. The stadium seats 63,000, and the gymnasium seats 13,000. The west gate leads to the Olympic Sports Center Station on Nanjing Metro Line 10, while the east gate connects to the Olympic Sports East Station on Nanjing Metro Line 2.

Construction of the Nanjing Olympic Sports Center officially began on August 18, 2002, was completed at the end of 2004, and was put into operation on May 1, 2005. With a total investment of RMB 2.167 billion, the center won the Gold Award at the 11th International Sports Architecture and Sports Facilities Awards in 2007, becoming the first sports building in China to receive this honor.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

East Square, Big Platform, Stadium.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Olympic Sports Center

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Nanjing Olympic Sports Center, built for the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics, is a major multi-purpose sports venue. It plays a key role in hosting large-scale sporting events and cultural activities in Nanjing.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Nanjing Olympic Sports Center is located in the Xianlin area of Nanjing. It can be reached via metro Line 2, getting off at Xianlin Station, and taking a short taxi ride from there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The venue is generally open for events and activities throughout the day. However, for tours and public access, it’s best to visit in the morning or early afternoon. Check the schedule for specific events.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Ticket prices vary depending on the event. For sports events, tickets can be bought online or at the stadium. For public access, certain areas may be free, while others might require a small fee for tours.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s recommended to book tickets in advance for popular events, especially during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 weeks in advance is ideal for major sports or concerts.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the main areas of the Nanjing Olympic Sports Center, including the stadium and surrounding facilities, plan for at least 2-3 hours. For attending events, additional time will be needed depending on the event schedule.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see areas include the main stadium, the swimming center, and the sports park surrounding the venue. Visitors should also check out the Youth Olympic Park adjacent to the center.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English can be rented for self-guided tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the exterior of the main stadium, which is especially stunning at night, and the view from the Youth Olympic Park offering panoramic shots of the sports complex.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main stadium, then walk through the surrounding sports facilities, including the basketball and tennis courts. Finish by exploring the nearby Youth Olympic Park for some peaceful outdoor views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no scheduled night visits or light shows, the main stadium is beautifully lit up at night, making it a great spot for photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Sports Center can get crowded during major events, but it’s less busy on weekdays or during off-peak times. Weekends with events typically attract large crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are multiple toilets, water stations, rest areas, and food kiosks around the venue. A few shops offer souvenirs and sports merchandise.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The venue is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating for disabled visitors. Children and elderly visitors can easily navigate the complex with ample seating and rest spots available.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted throughout the venue. Cash is rarely needed unless purchasing from small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few cafes inside the Sports Center, and nearby, you’ll find a variety of dining options in the Xianlin area, offering local and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available both inside the Sports Center and in nearby restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels near the venue include Nanjing International Expo Center Hotel and the Grand Metropark Hotel Nanjing, which offer convenient access to the Sports Center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Nanjing Museum, and the Purple Mountain Scenic Area. All are within a short drive from the Sports Center.