CCTV Headquarters Beijing
An iconic, 44-story skyscraper by Rem Koolhaas, famous for its unique 'Big Pants' design and modern architectural statement.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for architectural photos
CCTV Headquarters Beijing
Best Time
Best light for architectural photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic, 44-story skyscraper by Rem Koolhaas, famous for its unique 'Big Pants' design and modern architectural statement.
"The 'Big Pants' building is a must-see architectural marvel, offering stunning views from across the street."
📸 Best Viewpoint
View from across the street for unobstructed photos. Plaza access is limited.
🚶♂️ Plaza Access
Unfortunately, you can't walk across the plaza. Stand over the street for the best views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Big Pants' Silhouette
Marvel at the unique, interconnected loop design of this architectural icon. A must-see for design enthusiasts.
Architectural Innovation
Explore the groundbreaking design by Rem Koolhaas, a symbol of modern Chinese architecture.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the 'Big Pants'
Best Viewing Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Viewpoint
View from across the street for unobstructed photos. Plaza access is limited.
🚶♂️ Plaza Access
Unfortunately, you can't walk across the plaza. Stand over the street for the best views.
CCTV tower in Beijing
💡 Architectural Icon
Admire the unique 'Big Pants' design by Rem Koolhaas. A modern marvel!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Viewpoint
View from across the street for unobstructed photos. Plaza access is limited.
🚶♂️ Plaza Access
Unfortunately, you can't walk across the plaza. Stand over the street for the best views.
💡 Architectural Icon
Admire the unique 'Big Pants' design by Rem Koolhaas. A modern marvel!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the unique and bold architecture of the CCTV Headquarters, often referring to its 'Big Pants' nickname. While direct access to the plaza is limited, the views from across the street are highly recommended for photography and appreciating its innovative design. It's a striking modern landmark in Beijing.
"The CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, designed by Rem Koolhaas and Ole Scheeren of the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), stands as a striking example of contemporary architecture. Completed in 2012, this 234-meter tall structure deviates from traditional skyscraper designs by forming a continuous loop of six horizontal and vertical sections, creating an irregular grid on its façade with a central void.
The building houses China Central Television's administrative offices, news studios, and broadcasting facilities. Its innovative design has garnered both acclaim and criticism. The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat named it the Best Tall Building Worldwide in 2013, recognizing its architectural significance.
However, some critics argue that its complexity lacks authenticity, suggesting the form does not emerge naturally from its function.
Locally, the building has earned the nickname "Big Pants" due to its distinctive shape. While it is not open for public tours, visitors can appreciate its unique structure from various vantage points in Beijing, such as the nearby China World Mall.
Overall, the CCTV Headquarters serves as a landmark in Beijing's skyline, symbolizing the city's modernization and architectural ambition."
Malihamehnaz
"The CCTV Headquarters is a 51-floor skyscraper formed out of a pair of conjoined towers on the East Third Ring Road, in the Beijing CBD.
Due to its radical shape, a taxi driver first came up with its nickname dà kùchǎ roughly translated as "big boxer shorts. Locals therefore call it trousers."
Rajeshwar Dayal Mathur
"An iconic building and a must-see for those into architecture. For the best views, walk across the street to China World Mall (国贸商城) take the elevator to Level 6, there’s a viewing platform next to Blue Frog Bar & Grill, it’s free for visitors to hang out and take photos of this modern marvel."
Jem Jex
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The CCTV Headquarters is accessible via Beijing's subway system. Take Line 10 to the Jintailu Station, which is a short walk away. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available throughout the city.
While there might be some parking facilities in the surrounding business district, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to potential congestion and limited availability.
The most popular way to view the CCTV Headquarters is from across the street, as direct plaza access is restricted. This offers the best photographic opportunities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to view the exterior of the CCTV Headquarters. It's a public landmark that can be admired from the surrounding streets.
Public access inside the CCTV Headquarters is generally not permitted as it houses offices. The primary experience is viewing its unique exterior architecture.
As it's an exterior view, there are no official visiting hours. You can view the building at any time, though daytime offers better light for photography and evenings provide a chance to see it illuminated.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from across the street, particularly on the north side, offering a clear view of the 'Big Pants' shape. Experiment with different angles and times of day.
Drone usage is typically restricted in major urban areas like Beijing, especially around prominent landmarks. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For daytime shots, a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) will ensure sharpness. For evening shots, a tripod is highly recommended to handle low light conditions and capture the building's illumination effectively.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
📸 Architecture Enthusiasts
Seek out different angles from across the street to fully grasp its three-dimensional complexity. Consider visiting at different times of day to see how the light interacts with its facade, transforming its appearance from dawn to dusk. This building is a prime example of how modern architecture can become an iconic landmark.
🏙️ Urban Explorers
Combine your visit with exploring the Central Business District (CBD) area where it's located. This area is filled with other contemporary skyscrapers, offering a broader perspective on Beijing's rapid development and modern architectural trends. Public transport is the most efficient way to navigate this bustling district.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
The building's design is not just visually striking but also functional, housing offices, studios, and production facilities for China Central Television. The open design encourages collaboration and a sense of community among its occupants. It stands as a testament to modern architectural ambition and has become an iconic symbol of Beijing's evolving urban landscape.
While visitors cannot access the interior, appreciating the exterior from various vantage points is a rewarding experience. The sheer scale and daring geometry of the CCTV Headquarters make it a must-see for anyone interested in modern architecture and urban design.
Viewing and Photography Tips
For photography, the best light conditions vary. Daytime offers clear views and allows you to capture the building's metallic facade and intricate details. However, many find the building particularly captivating in the evening when its lights illuminate the structure, creating a dramatic silhouette against the night sky. Bringing a tripod can be very beneficial for low-light photography to ensure sharp images.
Consider exploring the surrounding area for different perspectives. While the most direct view is across the street, slightly elevated positions or shots taken from a distance can offer a more comprehensive sense of its place within the Beijing skyline. Be patient and experiment with angles to capture the most compelling shots of this architectural marvel.
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