Visiting CCTV Headquarters in Beijing – What Tourists Need to Know

You can’t go inside the CCTV Headquarters. It is not open for public tours. Visitors are not allowed to enter. Still, you will want to see this building up close. Its bold, twisted shape stands out. The 75-meter cantilever is amazing. This makes it famous with architecture fans and photographers. You can take photos from outside. You can enjoy the unique design. Plan ahead to have the best visit. You can also join a guided visit with China Explorer Tour. This makes your trip easier.

Key Takeaways

• You cannot go inside the CCTV Headquarters, but you can see its special building from the plaza outside. Bring your camera to take nice pictures.

• Take public transport like Subway Line 10 or buses to get to the CCTV Headquarters easily. Guided tours can pick you up from your hotel.

• Go on a guided tour with China Explorer Tour for an easy visit. Their guides share local tips and show you the best places for photos.

• Visit other places nearby like China World Mall and Chaoyang Park after seeing the CCTV Headquarters. There are many places to eat in the area.

• Follow local rules and stay on public walkways when you visit. Your guide can help you get around and talk to people.

CCTV Headquarters Access

Public Entry

You may think you can walk into the CCTV Headquarters. The answer is no. People cannot go inside the building. The headquarters does not let the public enter. Security guards watch the entrance. Only workers and invited guests can go in. You can still get close to the building. The plaza outside is open for everyone. Many people come here to take pictures. The twisted shape looks cool from the street. You can walk around and see the view. If you like architecture, this place is fun.

Tip: Bring your camera or phone. The best pictures are from the east side of the plaza. Late afternoon sunlight makes the building look great.

Tours and Events

You cannot join a public tour inside the CCTV Headquarters. But you can book guided tours that show the building as a highlight. Some tours focus on the nearby CCTV Tower. This tower is a different building but part of the Central Chinese Television complex. These tours give you a special experience. You can see Beijing from high up. You learn about TV culture and eat a fancy dinner.

Here’s what a typical CCTV Tower Night Tour includes:

You can book these tours with local travel agencies. China Explorer Tour can help you plan your trip. Their guides speak English and know good places for photos. You get picked up at your hotel. The ride is comfortable and the guide is friendly. You can enjoy your evening and not worry about planning.

Note: The CCTV Tower Night Tour does not let you go inside the CCTV Headquarters. You will see the headquarters from outside and visit the tower nearby.

If you want to learn more about Beijing’s modern buildings, ask China Explorer Tour about custom trips. You can visit the CCTV Headquarters plaza and other cool places in the city. This way, you get a full day of exploring and taking great photos.

About CCTV Headquarters

Architecture

When you stand in front of the CCTV Headquarters, you see a building that looks very different from others in Beijing. The shape catches your eye right away. Two towers lean and connect at the top with a big cantilever. They join at the bottom with a bridge. This makes a loop that twists in the air. Some people call it "big pants" because it looks unusual.

Here are some things you will notice:

• The building has a steel frame and glass walls. This makes it look shiny and modern.

• The outside has a pattern of lines and shapes. This makes the surface look lively.

• The building uses special earthquake-resistant technology. It has a strong diagrid exoskeleton.

• Inside, there are offices, studios, and technical rooms. The design shows how the building works.

• The loop stands for unity and connection. This idea comes from old Chinese philosophy.

Rem Koolhaas and Ole Scheeren from OMA designed this famous building. Their work changed how people think about tall buildings in China. The building mixes ideas from old Chinese courtyards and new towers. You can see both tradition and new ideas together.

Tip: If you like architecture, bring a sketchbook or camera. You will want to draw or take pictures of the bold lines and shapes.

Significance

The CCTV Headquarters is more than just a cool building. It is a symbol of modern China and its place in the world. Here is why it matters:

People talk about how the building changed Beijing’s skyline.

It makes people think differently about what tall buildings can look like. The design mixes local culture with ideas from around the world.

The headquarters helped make a busy media park in the CBD.

Now, the area is full of life and energy.

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You can see how the building brings together people, ideas, and cultures. It is not just for TV. It is a landmark that tells a story about China’s future.

Getting There

Subway and Bus

You want to reach the CCTV Headquarters easily. The subway is your best choice. The building sits in Beijing’s Central Business District (CBD). You can use Subway Line 10. Get off at Jintaixizhao Station. Use Exit A. Walk east for about 10 minutes. You will see the twisted shape of the headquarters.

If you prefer the bus, you have options. Take bus No. 402, 405, 421, 488, or 619. Get off at the Guanghua Road stop. The building stands nearby. You can follow the crowd. Many people head there for photos.

Tip: Subway rides in Beijing are cheap and fast. You can buy tickets at the station or use a transit card. The signs are in English and Chinese. You will not get lost.

Here’s a quick guide:

If you join a tour with China Explorer Tour, you do not need to worry about directions. Your guide will meet you at your hotel. You get door-to-door service. You can relax and enjoy the ride. The guide knows the best routes and can answer your questions.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing

You may want a taxi or ride-sharing service. This is a good choice if you travel with family or have heavy bags. Taxis in Beijing are easy to find. You can hail one on the street or use an app like DiDi. Just tell the driver “CCTV Headquarters” or show a photo. Most drivers know the building.

Ride-sharing apps work well. You can book a car with your phone. The app shows the price and arrival time. You can pay with cash or card. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes from most downtown hotels.

Note: Traffic in Beijing can be busy during rush hour. Try to travel before 8 AM or after 7 PM for a smoother trip.

If you book with China Explorer Tour, you get private transfers. The team arranges everything. You do not need to speak Chinese or worry about directions. Your guide helps with pick-up and drop-off. You save time and avoid stress.

• Why choose a guided transfer?

  • You get local tips.

  • You avoid getting lost.

  • You enjoy a comfortable ride.

You can focus on your visit. Let China Explorer Tour handle the details. Your trip becomes easy and fun.

CCTV Headquarters Photo Spots

Best Angles

You want to snap the coolest photo of the CCTV Headquarters. The building’s wild shape makes every angle interesting, but some spots stand out. You can walk around and try different views, but most travelers agree on a few favorites:

• Across the street at China World Mall, you’ll find a Level 6 viewing platform next to Blue Frog Bar & Grill. This spot gives you a wide shot of the whole building.

• The north side of the street shows off the famous “Big Pants” look. You get a clear view of the twisted loop.

• The street view is the most popular. Direct access to the plaza is restricted, so you’ll see lots of people lining up along the sidewalk with cameras.

• Try moving around the plaza’s edge. You can experiment with angles and get creative with your shots.

Tip: If you join a guided tour with China Explorer Tour, your guide can show you secret spots for the best photos. You might even get help with framing and timing.

Day and Night Shots

Lighting changes everything. You can visit the CCTV Headquarters at different times and get totally different photos. Here’s how the light works for you:

1. Morning blue hour gives you soft, cool light. Most people skip this time, but you can capture unique city vibes.

2. Golden hour brings warm, glowing sunlight. Your photos look dramatic and full of color.

3. Blue hour happens before sunrise and after sunset. The sky turns pastel, and the building stands out against the city lights.

You can take photos during the day for sharp details. At night, the building glows and the city feels alive. Try both if you have time. You’ll see why photographers love this spot.

Pro tip: Bring a tripod for night shots. Your pictures will look sharper, and you can play with long exposures.

Nearby Amenities

Restaurants and Cafes

You might get hungry after snapping photos of the CCTV Headquarters.

Good news—this area has plenty of tasty options.

The Central Business District (CBD) buzzes with restaurants and cafes.

You can find everything from quick snacks to fancy meals.

• Blue Frog Bar & Grill: This spot sits in China World Mall. You can grab a burger or a salad. The view of the CCTV building from here is awesome.

• Element Fresh: If you want healthy food, try Element Fresh. They serve fresh salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. It’s a favorite for travelers who want something light.

• Starbucks: Need a coffee break? Several Starbucks locations are nearby. You can relax, charge your phone, and plan your next stop.

• Din Tai Fung: Craving dumplings? Din Tai Fung is famous for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). The restaurant is clean and the service is quick.

Tip: Many places in the CBD accept credit cards and mobile payments. You can ask your China Explorer Tour guide for help with ordering or finding a table.

Other Attractions

You don’t have to stop at the CCTV Headquarters. The area around the building offers more to explore. Here are some cool places you can visit:

• China World Mall: This huge shopping center has luxury shops, a cinema, and lots of places to eat. You can shop for souvenirs or just enjoy the air conditioning.

• Chaoyang Park: Want some green space? Chaoyang Park is not far away. You can walk, rent a bike, or just relax by the lake.

• Today Art Museum: If you love art, check out this modern museum. It features Chinese and international artists. The exhibits change often, so there’s always something new.

• CBD Skyscraper Walk: Take a stroll and see other famous buildings like the China World Trade Center and Fortune Plaza. The skyline looks amazing, especially at sunset.

If you join a China Explorer Tour, your guide can suggest the best stops based on your interests. You get local tips and a smooth experience every step of the way.

Practical Tips with China Explorer Tour

Safety and Etiquette

You want your visit to the CCTV Headquarters to be safe. Always stay on public walkways. Do not go into restricted areas. Security guards watch the building all the time. Listen to what they say. Never climb fences or block entrances. Keep your things close, like your camera and phone. Beijing is safe, but crowds need extra care.

Etiquette is important. Show respect by not shouting or littering. People in Beijing like polite visitors. If you want to take photos of people, ask first. Smile and greet others when you meet them. This helps everyone feel welcome.

Tip: If you join a China Explorer Tour, your guide explains local rules. They help you avoid mistakes.

Language and Communication

You might worry about language in Beijing. Most signs near the CCTV Headquarters use Chinese and English. Talking to locals can still be hard. Taxi drivers and shop owners may not speak English. You can use translation apps or show pictures to help.

China Explorer Tour makes talking easy. Their guides speak English, Spanish, German, and French. You get help with directions and ordering food. Guides answer your questions. You feel relaxed and confident.

Tailor-Made Tours

You want a trip that matches your style. China Explorer Tour offers custom plans. You pick what you want to see and do. The team listens to your interests and plans everything. You get private rides, flexible times, and local experiences.

China Explorer Tour uses smart tools to help you travel. The system finds the best routes and hidden places. It matches you with guides who fit your needs. You get updates and support right away. Planning your trip is easy and fun.

You can choose tours like the Beijing Day Tour for classic sights. Or try a cultural experience like Kate’s Hanfu photoshoot. Her story shows how China Explorer Tour creates special moments. You get expert help, great photos, and a real taste of Chinese culture.

Note: You can ask for a custom trip online. The smart platform helps you design your perfect Beijing adventure. You get fast answers and personal tips.

You can’t go inside the CCTV Headquarters, but you can explore the plaza and snap amazing photos. Getting there is easy by subway, bus, or taxi. If you want a stress-free visit, China Explorer Tour handles all the details for you.

• Plan your trip ahead.

• Stay on public walkways.

• Ask your guide for the best photo spots.

You’ll follow a public loop that shows off the building’s studios and history. The path ends at a cantilever with stunning views of Beijing’s CBD and the Forbidden City. Seeing this modern icon up close is a highlight of any Beijing adventure. Guided or tailor-made tours make your experience even better.

FAQ

Can I go inside the CCTV Headquarters?

No, you cannot enter the CCTV Headquarters. The building is closed to the public. You can only view and photograph it from outside.

What is the best way to get to the CCTV Headquarters?

You can take Subway Line 10 to Jintaixizhao Station and walk about 10 minutes. Buses and taxis are also easy options. Guided tours with China Explorer Tour offer hotel pick-up.

Are there any guided tours that include the CCTV Headquarters?

Yes! China Explorer Tour offers custom Beijing tours. You can visit the CCTV Headquarters plaza and other modern landmarks. Guides help you find the best photo spots.

Is it safe to visit the area around the CCTV Headquarters?

Yes, the area is safe and busy. Stay on public walkways. Watch your belongings, especially when it gets crowded.

Can I get help if I do not speak Chinese?

Absolutely! Many signs have English. If you join a China Explorer Tour, your guide speaks English and helps with everything, from directions to ordering food.