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Located in the southern part of the central area of Beijing Olympic Park, the National Stadium (Bird's Nest) served as the main stadium for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. After the Games, it became a large-scale professional venue for Beijing residents to participate in sports activities and enjoy sports entertainment, becoming a landmark sports building and an Olympic legacy.
The "Bird's Nest" is a great architectural work known as the "fourth generation stadium".
It is a warm bird's nest made of a steel mesh like branches, which is used to weave a stadium that can accommodate 100,000 people. It is a cradle for nurturing and protecting life.
The Bird's Nest Skywalk is very famous. Climbing to the top, you can overlook the interior of the Bird's Nest and take in the surrounding Olympic Park Scenic Avenue.
The temperate monsoon climate makes travel suitable all year round.
2 hours
Adult regular ticket: 50 RMB/person, Sky Corridor ticket: 80 RMB
9:00-21:00
The Bird's Nest, officially known as the National Stadium, was designed by the renowned architectural firms Herzog & de Meuron in collaboration with Ai Weiwei for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. It is a symbol of China's modern architecture and a major landmark in Beijing. The stadium is famous for its innovative design, resembling a bird's nest, and has hosted numerous international events, including the Olympics and World Athletics Championships.
The Bird's Nest is located in the Olympic Green area in Chaoyang District, Beijing. You can easily reach the stadium by taking the Beijing Subway Line 8 to the Olympic Green station, which is directly connected to the venue. Alternatively, taxis and buses can also take you there, and it's within walking distance from nearby attractions like the Water Cube.
The National Stadium is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, as the temperature is more comfortable and the stadium is beautifully lit up in the evening. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, so visiting on a weekday is advisable for a quieter experience.
The entrance fee for the Bird's Nest is typically around 50 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through the official Beijing Olympic Park website or other local tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors, but it may be a good idea during peak tourist seasons or public holidays. If you are part of a large group or visiting for a special event, booking at least a few days in advance is recommended.
To fully explore the Bird's Nest and its surroundings, you will need around 2-3 hours. This will give you enough time to visit the stadium, learn about its history, and explore the nearby Olympic Park and other landmarks.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also offered in several languages, including English, Mandarin, and other major languages, to help visitors understand the history and significance of the stadium.
The best photography spots are from the exterior, where you can capture the unique shape and design of the Bird's Nest. The elevated sections inside the stadium provide a panoramic view of the field. At night, the lighting creates a stunning atmosphere, making it an excellent time for night photography.
Start by visiting the entrance area and take a walk around the exterior to admire the architecture. Then, proceed inside the stadium to learn about its history and the 2008 Olympics. End your visit by exploring the surrounding Olympic Park and nearby landmarks, such as the Water Cube.
While the Bird's Nest is not typically open for night visits, the stadium is beautifully lit in the evenings, creating a stunning visual effect. Occasionally, there are special events, light shows, or concerts held at the stadium, so it's worth checking the schedule if you're interested in attending such an event.
The Bird's Nest can be crowded during weekends, holidays, and special events. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid visiting during major national holidays like Chinese New Year or National Day.
The Bird's Nest has well-maintained toilets and rest areas for visitors. There are food and beverage stalls offering snacks, water, and soft drinks. For a more extensive meal, visitors can head to nearby restaurants in the Olympic Park area. Souvenir shops are also available around the stadium.
The Bird's Nest is fully accessible to elderly visitors, children, and disabled visitors. There are ramps and elevators for easier access to different levels of the stadium, and the surrounding Olympic Park is also wheelchair-friendly.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted for both tickets and purchases inside the stadium and surrounding areas. However, it’s always good to carry some cash just in case for small purchases or at some food stalls.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available in nearby restaurants within the Olympic Park area. Some food stalls may offer vegetarian dishes, but the variety is limited compared to full-service restaurants.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the Bird's Nest selling Olympic-themed items, such as keychains, t-shirts, and memorabilia from the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Traditional Chinese souvenirs, like silk products and handicrafts, can also be found.
