On July 27, 2024, at the 46th session of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, came a major announcement: China's "Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital", was officially added to the World Heritage List.
Yes, the Beijing Central Axis has successfully gained World Heritage status!
On this day, the city's architecture was draped in festive red, with gilded characters shining brightly.
Along the northern extension of the Beijing Central Axis stands a landmark building—the Beijing Olympic Tower. It is not only a perfect fusion of modern technology and architectural art but also an exceptional vantage point to overlook this ancient yet vibrant city.
As your gaze moves along the axis, which traverses the course of history and connects ancient and modern worlds, magnificent scenes unfold before your eyes.
PART 01
The Tree of Life, the Beacon of Hope—Olympic Tower
With the Olympic fever sweeping in, the Olympic Tower, known as the "Tree of Life", stands in Beijing Olympic Park in Chaoyang District. It symbolizes the harmonious integration of the Olympics and the city and embodies the dynamic spirit of the Olympic rings. The tower features sleek, flowing lines that represent the athletes' graceful forms, while the flame-shaped top signifies the enduring legacy of Olympic spirit. As one of the key landmarks of the Games, it represents not only the spirit of sports but also a testament to the progress of human civilization.
PART 02
Olympic Tower Viewing Platform
Like the "backbone and soul" of the city, the Central Axis supports the ancient capital's journey from history to the future. Exploring the historical and cultural context of the capital, every historic site along the Central Axis is worth careful exploration.
From the Beijing Olympic Tower, you will witness the most breathtaking juxtaposition of the ancient and modern. Standing on the viewing platform, the first sight that captures your attention is the Olympic Park below. On this vibrant and dynamic land, the modern lines of the Bird's Nest, the Water Cube, and the Ice Ribbon sparkle under the sun. They not only witness the Beijing Olympics but also mark the city's important milestone towards becoming a global metropolis.
As your gaze moves beyond this modern architectural cluster and looks southward, a clear axis gradually emerges. This line, stretching from north to south, has traversed a millennium, linking together numerous glorious chapters.
From the Beijing Olympic Tower, facing south along the Central Axis, your view extends to landmarks like the Bell and Drum Towers, Jingshan Park, and the Forbidden City. Each building, whether ancient and elegant or solemn and majestic, carries a rich historical and cultural legacy. To the north, the Olympic Forest Park adds a touch of vitality and greenery to this ancient axis.
As night falls and the lights along the Central Axis gradually illuminate, the entire city seems to be enchanted, becoming dreamlike and magical. From the Olympic Tower, overlooking the dazzling city lights, you see not just a cityscape but a crystallization of Chinese wisdom and courage, a beacon of light and dreams for countless people.
PART 03
Best Sunset Viewing Spot
Here, you will find the most romantic colors. As you run towards the light in the twilight, you'll see layers of golden clouds and an orange sunset. How do you describe the grandeur and romance of that moment?
From the viewing platform of the Olympic Tower, a 360° view will certainly amaze you. As the sun sets in the west, a magnificent painting is set before you. The sunset, like an artist's brush, paints the clouds with hues of gold, and the earth is bathed in a golden glow. The twilight embraces the mountains, and the layered clouds become more charming.
Standing on the viewing platform, gaze into the distance to capture these fleeting beauties. So close, so beautiful. This summer, come to the viewing platform to witness the most stunning scenery.
➤ Location: Chaoyang District, Olympic Park
➤ Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
➤ Transportation:
Take Line 8 to Olympic Sports Center Station, exit B2; or Line 15 to Olympic Park Station, exit D.
Take buses 82, 419, 538, 645, etc., and get off at National Stadium East (Bird's Nest) Station.
The Central Axis is not just a historical corridor; it is also a witness to Beijing's modernization. From the Beijing Olympic Tower, looking south along the Central Axis, experience the perfect blend of Beijing's past and future, tradition and modernity.
