Bird's Nest: Beijing National Stadium

Introduction

The Bird’s Nest, officially known as the Beijing National Stadium, is one of the world’s most recognizable buildings. Built for the 2008 Olympic Games, it served as the main venue for the opening and closing ceremonies as well as track and field events.

History

Construction of the Bird’s Nest began in 2003 and was completed in 2008. It was designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron and Chinese architect Li Xinggang. The stadium gets its name from its unique steel structure that resembles a bird’s nest.

Main Attractions

• Stadium Interior: The main seating area with capacity for over 80,000 spectators.
• VIP Area: The special seating area for dignitaries.
• Olympic Museum: Exhibits on the 2008 Olympic Games.
• Roof Tour: A tour of the stadium’s unique steel structure.
• Night View: Beautiful lighting at night.

Practical Information

• Location: Chaoyang District, Beijing
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 50
• Transportation: Take metro Line 8 to Olympic Green Station.

Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Evening for the beautiful lighting.
• Combine with Water Cube: The Bird’s Nest is next to the Water Cube.
• Check Events: The stadium hosts concerts and sports events throughout the year.

Last Updated: July 2026

Note: Opening hours and ticket prices are subject to change. Please verify current information before visiting.