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1 National Stadium S. Rd., Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
Landmark buildings for 2008 Beijing Olympic Games
Once the shining centerpiece of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) is now one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. With its striking steel structure resembling a bird’s nest, it not only stands as a marvel of modern architecture but also serves as a living monument to Olympic spirit, Chinese creativity, and cultural pride. Whether you step inside to explore its legacy or admire it from outside under the night lights, the Bird’s Nest offers a memorable experience for travelers of all ages.
The spectacular National Stadium, as known as Bird's Nest stadium in Beijing, hailed as the finest arena in the world and the centre-piece of the most expensive Olympics in history, is full of hidden symbolism.
In Chinese mythology, the sun is represented by a circle and the moon by a square, reflected by the shape of the bird's nest and the Water Cube aquatic centre opposite, reinforced when the venues are lit at night, red for the Bird's Nest and blue for the Water Cube. The forms also echo the Chinese symbols for male and female, and are built either side of the north-south axis road which runs in a perfect straight line for three miles through Beijing, centered on the Forbidden City.
Design and Construction
Located in the Olympic Green, the US$423 million stadium is the world's largest steel structure. The design was awarded to a submission from the Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron in April 2003. The design, which was inspired by a study of Chinese ceramics, implemented steel beams in order to hide supports for the retractable roof; giving the stadium the appearance of a "Bird's nest".
Functional and Sustainable Features
The eastern and western stands of Beijing National Stadium are higher than northern and southern stands, in order to improve sightlines. A 24-hour per day rainwater collector is located near the stadium; after water is purified, it is used throughout and around the stadium. Pipes placed under the playing surface gather heat in the winter to warm the stadium and coldness in the summer to cool the stadium.
Seating Capacity
The stadium's design originally called for a capacity of 100,000 people; however 9,000 were removed during a simplification of the design. The new total of 91,000 was shaved further when 11,000 temporary seats were removed after the 2008 Olympics; bringing the stadium's current capacity to 80,000.
Role in the 2008 Olympics and Future Use
Beijing National Stadium hosted the spectacular Opening and Closing Ceremonies, athletic events, and football final of the 2008 Summer Olympics, from 8 August to 24 August 2008. The stadium also hosted the Opening and Closing ceremonies and athletic events of the 2008 Summer Paralympics from 6 September to 17 September 2008. Though designed for track & field events of the Olympics, the stadium will continue to host sporting events, such as football, afterwards. A shopping mall and a hotel, with rooms overlooking the field, are planned to help increase use after the Olympics. It will become the most important public space in Beijing.
Enduring Legacy
Architectural critics have said the National Stadium, to use its official name, sets standards of construction which may not be surpassed for decades. It is designed to last for 100 years and withstand a force eight magnitude earthquake.
1. Olympic Legacy Corridor
As you step into the Bird’s Nest, the Olympic Legacy Corridor is the first area to greet you. This exhibition features props and equipment from the 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony—such as ancient-style drums (fou), guzheng (Chinese zither), and bamboo scrolls—alongside track and field gear like shot puts, javelins, and rowing paddles. Walking through this gallery feels like traveling back to that unforgettable summer when the world watched China with awe.
2. Golden Hall
Located near the west entrance, the Golden Hall is a significant passageway connecting the exterior and interior of the stadium. As the official VIP entry point during the Olympics—welcoming world leaders and IOC officials—it exudes grandeur with its shimmering golden walls, stately red carpet, and dignified ambiance. The hall reflects both Chinese hospitality and Olympic honor.
3. Flowing Silver Hall
The Flowing Silver Hall served as the exclusive lounge for IOC presidents, including Mr. Jacques Rogge and Mr. Thomas Bach. Its cool silver color scheme is paired with hand-painted depictions of traditional Chinese sports on the surrounding walls, seamlessly blending elegance and cultural symbolism.
4. Spectator Stands
One of the most visually striking elements inside the stadium is the sea of nearly 100,000 red seats, creating a wave-like view that speaks to the sheer scale of the Bird’s Nest. Standing here, you can easily imagine the roar of the crowds and the emotional highs of Olympic glory.
5. Xiangyun Golden Hall
On the second level, the Xiangyun Golden Hall is a uniquely decorated VIP room with historical and cultural significance. Gold dominates the palette, complemented by red carpets and intricate "auspicious cloud" patterns—symbolizing good fortune and harmony.
6. West Viewing Zone (5th Floor)
Here, you’ll find more props from the 2008 Olympics, particularly from the unforgettable opening ceremony. This area also displays equipment used in the track and field finals. As you stroll the west-side corridor, you can get an up-close look at the steel structure of the stadium—an architect’s dream and a photographer’s favorite.
7. Domei Bird’s Nest Skywalk
Ready for a thrill? Climb to the top of the stadium, more than 60 meters (200 feet) above the ground, to explore the Domei Skywalk. This 1,000-meter path stretches across the steel roof structure, offering panoramic views of the Olympic Park. Look down through the open roof to the vast arena below, or gaze outward toward nearby landmarks such as the Water Cube, Olympic Tower, and Beijing’s central axis. Come at sunset for stunning skyline views—and stay as twilight turns the steel beams into a glowing wonder.
You don’t have to enter the Bird’s Nest to enjoy its beauty. Nighttime is a magical time to admire this architectural wonder. From 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM (summer/autumn), the stadium comes alive with a red-themed lighting show. The steel lattice glows like dancing flames, interacting with the golden lights of the Olympic Torch Tower and the dreamy blue-purple glow of the Water Cube. Together, they create a sci-fi-like landscape straight out of a cyberpunk film.
Photography tip: For dramatic silhouettes, head to the plaza right of the security gate and use the ground LED strips as a foreground. Frame your shot through the steel beams to capture the red glow bursting from within.
Want more nighttime thrills? Just across the street, the Water Cube hosts the "Flying Dragon Show" nightly at 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Using 3D projection mapping and laser effects, a giant digital dragon spirals from the rooftop into the air, accompanied by surround sound. Time your visit right—capture the Bird’s Nest light show first, then rush over to witness the dragon’s rebirth in light and sound.
The Bird’s Nest is stunning year-round, both by day and night. In the summer months (June–August), it’s best to visit after 6:00 PM to avoid heat and enjoy the vibrant lighting show. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and clear skies, making them ideal for sightseeing and photography.
♦Olympic Core Venues
Water Cube (National Aquatics Center)
Olympic Tower (Dingzi Tower)
Beijing Olympic Museum
🎨 Cultural & Educational Museums
China Science and Technology Museum
China Archaeological Museum
China Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum
🌳 Parks & Shopping Areas
Olympic Forest Park (South Garden)
Beitou Aoyuan 1314
Xin’ao Shopping Center
Metro: Line 8, get off at Olympic Sports Center Station or Olympic Park Station. Follow signs to the stadium.
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