In addition to the old architectural buildings mentioned in the blog Highlight of the Old Beijing, Beijing also has super-modern imposing buildings. The contrast between old and new is very striking. The Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008 and 2022 also contributed to the new builds in the city.
Beijing National Stadium, the Bird Nest
Many people recognize the Beijing’s National Stadium, or the Bird’s Nest from the Olympic Summer games in 2008, but it was also used for the 2022 Winter Olympics. It was designed by the Swiss architects and made of steel beams that looks like a bird’s nest. The stadium is used, next to the Olympics, for: football matches in the China Cup, FIA Formula E, athletics, Monster Jam and several concerts. I only saw the stadium from the outside but its really impressive and a unique building.
The Big Pants
The Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, together with the German architect Ole Sheeren, designed the headquarters of the Chinese State Television Company (CCTV). The tower consists of two legs with a transverse connection in the top, because of its remarkable shape, the tower is also called the Big Pants. The skyscraper with 51-floors, is located in the Beijing Business District of Guomao and opened their doors in beginning of 2008.
To get the perfect view on this radical shaped building you have to visit the China World Trade Center across the other side of the busy road. Go to the 6th Floor 3B at the Blue Frog Restaurant, from here you have the perfect spot to see the pants!
Sanlitun
In the Sanlitun area in the Chaoyang District there are many remarkable and modern buildings, even the ultra-western shopping center appeals a lot of people. The Apple store has a roof that looks like an iPad and it is housing the largest Adidas store in the world! Next to the fanciest and high-end stores is this area, you can find rooftop bars and clubs as well in this area. The view is spectacular during the evening; the lights on the building make it a real entertainment to walk around.
I was impressed by the Topwin Center, the changing lights on the building are so unique! Can you see what the building is showing? I Love Beijing!
The Sanlitun area has been under almost reconstruction since the late 20th century as part of a citywide economic regrowth. The contrast with for example the historical Summer Palace in immense.
Beijing Workers Stadium
The brand-new Beijing Workers Stadium opened in April 2023. The new Workers Stadium is built on the same place as the old stadium, that is why the local football team the Beijing Guoan FC, had to move to another stadium for 3 years. Now it is a huge modern football stadium room for 68.000 people. The Workers Stadium is within walking distance from the Sanlitun area. I was fortunate to attend one of the Beijing Guoan games during my visit to Beijing. My friends know the Dutch Youth Training Director of the club, who arranged the tickets for us.
Above I described a couple of the remarkable buildings in Beijing, but on your travel in and out of the city you see so many different striking buildings. There too many to mention here, but I love the contrast of the old and new building so close together.
Curious on my blog on the ancient buildings in Beijing, see here the blog Highlights of the Imperial Beijing
