Beijing National Stadium

The Basics

Though relatively new to the Beijing landscape, the National Stadium has become a must-see attraction. Most people stop to snap photos from the outside but, for a fee, you can enter and tour the facilities. Different ticket options unlock various parts of the stadium, including the Golden Hall and Golden Corridor. Many sightseeing tours—private and group—stop at the stadium, but others combine a tour of Olympic Park with a half-day visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Beijing National Stadium is one of the city’s most popular photo ops—a must for first-time visitors.

• Bring sun protection, as there’s not much shade in the Olympic Green Village.

• Check the calendar before your visit to see what events might be happening inside the stadium.

How to Get There

To get to the stadium, take subway Line 8 to Aoti Zhongxin Station and leave through Exit B2. From there it’s a short walk north. Public buses also stop at nearby Guojia Tiyuchang Dong and Beichen Donglu Stations.

When to Get There

You can ogle the stadium both day and night from the outside, but to enter for a tour you’ll have to visit during regular business hours that span from the morning to early evening. The stadium and neighboring Water Cube are particularly impressive when illuminated at night.

Olympic Green Village

Beijing National Stadium is part of the larger Beijing Olympic Park, covering 1,680 acres (680 hectares). In addition to the stadium, most visitors come to see the equally famous Water Cube, where Olympic swimming events were held. Also worth visiting is the Olympic Forest Park, a vast green area popular for walking, jogging, or picnicking.

Can I go into the Beijing National Stadium?

Yes, you can enter the Beijing National Stadium, also called the Bird’s Nest, for a fee. See the turf where athletes played in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and Paralympics. It can accommodate around 90,000 fans and is made from more than 10,000 steel beams—quite an architectural feat.

What is the Beijing National Stadium used for?

The Beijing National Stadium was built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where athletes would play football, track and field, and other stadium events. After the Olympics, it has been used to host sports events, including the 2022 Olympics and Paralympics, and other events, plus it is open for tourists to visit.

How do I get to the Beijing National Stadium?

Beijing has many public transport options to reach the Beijing National Stadium, but the easiest is the subway. Take the 8 line and get off at Olympic Center Station. Several buses also run to the stadium, or you could hail a taxi to avoid crowds.

How much does it cost to visit the Beijing National Stadium?

Tours inside the stadium cost roughly ¥50 for an approximately 1-hour general admission tour. Add on the sky corridor for an extra ¥30, or bump to a VIP ticket for ¥110. Make sure to come at dusk to see the Bird’s Nest lit up in full glory.

Why was the Beijing National Stadium built?

The Beijing National Stadium was built by a Swiss architecture firm for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. It is supposed to look like Chinese ceramics but also a lot like a bird’s nest—hence its nickname. More than 10,000 steel beams crisscross and curve, enclosing the field within.

Is visiting the Beijing National Stadium worth it?

Yes, it is worth it to visit the Beijing National Stadium. Olympic history was created here in 2008 and 2022, and it is also an impressive architectural feat. Besides the Bird’s Nest, you can also see the Water Cube or the National Aquatics Center. Visit at night to see both illuminated.