While a journey through Beijing offers a wealth of historical architecture, the city's skyline also showcases numerous examples of modern design. In contrast to Shanghai, where many notable structures are clustered together in the Pudong area for easy viewing, Beijing's contemporary landmarks are scattered throughout the city, making it challenging for architecture enthusiasts to see them all. To make things easier, we compiled a list of Beijing’s most iconic modern buildings:
CCTV Headquarters
Commonly referred to as the "Big Pants," this structure is one of only ten buildings in the city that exceed 200 meters in height. Designed by Rem Koolhaas and Ole Schreeren, the building features two leaning towers connected at the top and bottom by horizontal sections, becoming an iconic representation of Beijing often featured in films and television.
CITIC Tower
At 528 meters, CITIC Tower is the tallest building in Beijing and the 11th tallest skyscraper worldwide. Known as Zhōngguó Zūn (中国尊) for its distinctive narrow shape that resembles an ancient Chinese wine vessel, this office building serves as the CITIC Group headquarters. A large shopping center and subway station are set to open in the basement.
Daxing International Airport
Constructed to alleviate the ever-growing traffic at Beijing Capital International Airport, Daxing is located at the southernmost point of the city. This star-shaped mega-structure was the final design of the late architect Zaha Hadid. With terminals spanning 700,000 square meters, it offers a wealth of art, shopping, and dining options to keep visitors entertained, unlike the more traditional Capital Airport.
Phoenix Center
This award-winning building located at the southwest corner of Chaoyang Park invites various interpretations, resembling a compressed doughnut, a double helix, or a Mobius strip. Built for Hong Kong broadcaster Phoenix TV, it occasionally opens to the public for exhibitions showcasing artists’ work along with spectacular views from its interior.
National Library North Area
The original National Library, completed in 1987, reflects a traditional Chinese architectural style. However, after the Olympics, a modern addition was made that resembles either a giant silver book or, more whimsically, a ship from Star Trek, especially when illuminated at night. Visitors can explore the building's interior, and foreigners can register for a reader card using their passport.
National Center for the Performing Arts
Known as the "Giant Egg," this theater features an opera hall, music hall, various art exhibition spaces, and restaurants, making it the largest theater complex in Asia. Its unique design includes a façade that smoothly transitions from glass to titanium, surrounded by a reflective pool.
People’s Daily Headquarters
Located near the Big Pants, the People's Daily Headquarters faced criticism for its phallic design during construction. However, upon completion, it showcased a sleek new exterior resembling a wind sail that commands respect. The original design contemplated a helipad and large satellite dishes on its hollow tip, but we appreciate its final form.
China World Tower
In contrast to the vase-like CITIC Tower, this building features a thicker waist and tapers at both ends. Its prominent crown is eye-catching from afar, and at its summit is the Atmosphere Bar, which reportedly offers the best view of the city.
China World Trade Center Phase 3B
Finished in 2017, this building is the third tallest in Beijing, taking inspiration from its rounder counterpart with a shape reminiscent of a large stalk of corn. It houses office spaces and hotel accommodations, including the boutique Hotel JEN and the beer bar Beersmith.
National Stadium
Commonly referred to as the "Bird’s Nest," the National Stadium is characterized by steel beams that intersect like a bamboo grove. Built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, it seats 91,000 spectators and has since hosted major football games, as well as events during the 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, albeit only for the opening and closing ceremonies.
National Aquatics Center
This well-known Olympic venue, nicknamed the “Water Cube," is recognized for its bubbly exterior and hosted the swimming events during the Olympics. It later became an indoor water park and was recently renamed "Ice Cube" for the 2022 Winter Olympics, where it served as the curling venue.
Digital Beijing Building
Constructed for the 2008 Olympics, this large data center sits next to Pangu Plaza and the National Stadium. Viewed from the west, its lines resemble the circuits of a computer chip, while from the south, the building comprises four unequal sections spaced apart.
Olympic Tower
Overlooking Olympic Park, the Olympic Tower consists of four connected towers that culminate in circular observation decks. Built to celebrate the 2008 Games in Beijing, its primary function is to provide a panoramic view of the city.
Wangjing Soho
Designed by Zaha Hadid, Wangjing Soho features three shark fin-like buildings of varying heights. The tallest tower, standing at 200
Here is a compilation of the most iconic modern structures in Beijing.