CCTV Headquarters Building

Introducing CCTV Headquarters Building

The CCTV Headquarters is located on the East Third Ring Road in Chaoyang District, Beijing. The campus comprises three buildings: the CCTV Headquarters (Main Building) in the southwest, the Television Culture Center (North Annex) in the northwest, and the Energy Service Center in the northeast corner. Renowned worldwide for its unique design, it was designed by the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA) led by German architect Ole Scheeren and Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas. It was selected by Time magazine as one of the world's ten architectural wonders in 2007.

The main building, popularly known as the "Big Pants," consists of two towers rising from a common platform, converging at the top to create a three-dimensional visual experience, breaking away from the conventional vertical form of skyscrapers. The building is divided into five main areas: Administration, General Business, News Production, Broadcasting, and Program Production. The Program Production area is partially open to the public.

Climate and best time to travel

North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Some open areas can be visited for about half an hour

Attraction opening hours

Open all day (exterior view only)

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Most Popular FAQs for CCTV Headquarters Building

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

The CCTV Headquarters Building in Beijing, designed by the Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, is a landmark of modern architecture and is known for its unique design that challenges traditional building structures. It serves as the headquarters of China Central Television (CCTV) and is a symbol of China’s rapid modernization and growing global influence.

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

The CCTV Headquarters Building is located in the Chaoyang District of Beijing, near the East Third Ring Road. You can get there by taking the Beijing Subway Line 1 to the Guomao station, which is just a short walk from the building. Taxis and buses are also convenient options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The building itself is not generally open to the public for tours, but you can visit the surrounding area at any time. The best times to visit are during the daytime, especially on weekdays when the area is less crowded.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting the CCTV Headquarters Building from the outside, as it is a public area. However, if special tours or events are available, you may need to check for pricing and booking details through the official CCTV website or third-party tour services.

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

No advance booking is required to visit the exterior. However, for special events or access to certain parts of the building, it’s best to book tickets a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Since the building is not typically open for interior tours, visiting the exterior and surrounding areas should take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and interest in the architecture.

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

The main highlight is the architectural design of the building itself, which is a significant feat of modern engineering. Outside the building, the nearby surroundings, including the CCTV Media Center, also offer impressive sights.

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

Guided tours are not typically available for the CCTV Headquarters Building. However, some local tour services may offer tours that pass by the building and explain its history and design. Most tours will be available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be available on request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the main square in front of the building or from nearby high-rise buildings with a good view of the complex. Evening shots can also capture the building lit up at night.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

As there is no interior access for general visitors, a recommended route would involve exploring the exterior of the building and walking around the surrounding area to admire its modern architecture and nearby landmarks.

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

The CCTV Headquarters Building is illuminated at night, making for a striking visual experience. There are no regular night tours, but the building’s lighting at night offers a spectacular view from nearby areas.

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

The area around the CCTV Headquarters is generally busy during weekdays. To avoid crowds, visit in the early morning or on weekends during the off-peak hours.

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

There are various shops and restaurants nearby, especially in the China Central Place Mall. Toilets and other basic facilities are available in the surrounding commercial areas.

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

The area around the CCTV Headquarters Building is accessible for people with mobility issues, with ramps and elevators in the surrounding shopping areas. However, the building itself does not have tours for general public access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in the area. Credit cards and debit cards are also accepted in most shops and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several high-end restaurants and cafes in the China Central Place Mall nearby, offering both local and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available at some of the restaurants within walking distance, particularly in the China Central Place Mall.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels near the CCTV Headquarters Building, including luxury hotels such as the Beijing Jingyi Hotel and Park Plaza Beijing Science Park.

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

Nearby attractions include the Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest), the National Aquatics Center (Water Cube), and the Beijing Planetarium. All of these can be easily combined for a full day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available in the nearby shopping malls, selling items such as traditional Chinese arts and crafts, local snacks, and branded products from CCTV.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From the CCTV Headquarters Building, you can take the Beijing Subway or a taxi to explore nearby attractions. Public buses are also available in the area, offering good connectivity.