Beijing Television Center

Beijing Television Center Visiting Guide: Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Beijing, the dynamic capital of China, is home to an impressive array of architectural landmarks that reflect both its ancient heritage and its rapid modernization. Among these, the Beijing Television Center (TVCC) and the CCTV Tower stand out as symbols of China’s media prowess and urban innovation. Located in the heart of the Central Business District (CBD), the TVCC is more than a media facility—its bold, angular structure, designed by Rem Koolhaas and Ole Scheeren of the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), serves as a beacon of architectural ambition and cultural significance (That’s Beijing).

This guide provides everything you need to plan a memorable visit, from practical details on hours and ticketing to insights on nearby attractions, accessibility, and travel tips. Whether you are drawn by its cutting-edge design, cultural offerings, or panoramic city views from the neighboring CCTV Tower, you’ll find all the essential information here for a rewarding experience.

Introduction
Historical and Architectural Overview
Visiting Information
Understanding the CCTV Tower and CCTV Headquarters
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
Essential Tips for Visitors
Visuals and Interactive Elements
Conclusion
References

Historical and Architectural Overview

Origins and Significance

The Beijing Television Center, or TVCC, was conceptualized as part of the larger CCTV Headquarters complex to showcase China’s emergence as a global media power. Construction began in 2004, with the TVCC designed to complement the adjacent CCTV Headquarters through its striking, angular profile and versatile, multi-use interior (Architectuul).

The TVCC houses a luxury hotel, a 1,500-seat theater, television studios, conference facilities, and public spaces. Its 34 stories are characterized by dramatic lines, a metallic façade, and a soaring hotel atrium, all of which exemplify the city’s embrace of modern architectural experimentation (e-architect).

Engineering Resilience

A significant fire in 2009 delayed the TVCC’s opening, but the building was restored, demonstrating impressive engineering resilience and the commitment to preserving its architectural vision (e-architect).

Relationship with the CCTV Headquarters

The TVCC and CCTV Headquarters were conceived as a visual and functional pair. While the CCTV Headquarters is a 234-meter-tall looped skyscraper recognized for its “Big Shorts” appearance, the TVCC offers a more approachable form and a direct interface with the public through its hotel, theater, and cultural amenities (That’s Beijing).

Visiting Information

Hours and Ticketing

TVCC (Beijing Television Center):
- Open: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Closed: Mondays (except public holidays)
- Tickets: 80 CNY for adults; 50 CNY for students and seniors. Purchase online via the official website or at the ticket counter.
CCTV Tower (Central Radio & TV Tower):
- Open: Daily, 8:30 AM–9:30 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
- Tickets: Typically 70–100 RMB for adults; discounts available for children, students, and seniors. Tickets are available onsite and online (Tour-Beijing).

Accessibility and Transportation

Both the TVCC and CCTV Tower are fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accommodations for visitors with disabilities.

TVCC Location: CBD, near Guomao Station (Lines 1 and 10).
CCTV Tower Location: 11B Fuxing Road, Haidian District. Closest subway is Gongzhufen (Lines 1, 10); buses and taxis are also convenient (East China Trip).

Guided Tours and Events

TVCC: Guided architectural tours available on weekends and during special exhibitions. The theater hosts regular performances—check the official calendar.
CCTV Tower: English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance for group tours (Tour-Beijing).

Photography Tips

TVCC: Dramatic south façade, hotel atrium, and the juxtaposition with the CCTV Headquarters offer prime photo opportunities.
CCTV Tower: Observation decks provide panoramic city views; best photos at sunrise, sunset, or nighttime for city lights.

Understanding the CCTV Tower and CCTV Headquarters

Locations and Access

CCTV Tower: Publicly accessible, located in western Beijing, with observation decks, a revolving restaurant, and a TV culture exhibition (ruqintravel.com).
CCTV Headquarters (TVCC): Located in the CBD, primarily an administrative complex, not open for regular public tours, but its exterior is a major attraction (Deep China Travel).

Distinctive Features

CCTV Tower: 405 meters tall; open-air and indoor observation decks; 18th-floor rotating restaurant; TV Culture Hall on the 19th floor.
CCTV Headquarters: 234 meters tall; iconic looped structure; paired with the TVCC (hotel, theater, event spaces).

Visitor Experiences

CCTV Tower:
- Observation decks at 225m and 238m
- 360° rotating restaurant
- TV Culture Hall with interactive exhibits
- Wheelchair accessible; photography allowed (ruqintravel.com)
CCTV Headquarters:
- Exterior viewing and photography any time; best angles from public plazas
- Media park and green spaces for relaxation
- Occasional special events in the adjacent TVCC

Exploring Nearby Attractions

Yuyuantan Park: Cherry blossoms in spring, serene lakeside walks (East China Trip).
Summer Palace: UNESCO World Heritage Site, classic Chinese gardens and pavilions (Travel of China).
Beijing West Railway Station: Convenient transit hub with dining and shopping.
798 Art District: Contemporary galleries and cafés, a hub for modern Chinese art.
Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square: Iconic historical sites, best visited with advance ticketing (Rachel Meets China).
Wangfujing Food Street: Night market for local snacks (Tour-Beijing).
Beijing Zoo & Aquarium: Family-friendly attractions; home to pandas and marine exhibits (Travel of China).
Olympic Park: Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube (Travel of China).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the TVCC (Beijing Television Center) open to the public?
Yes, the public can access the lobby, theater, restaurants, and select exhibition spaces.

Can I visit inside the CCTV Headquarters?
No, interior access is generally not available; admire the exterior and surrounding park.

How do I buy tickets for the TVCC and CCTV Tower?
TVCC: Online or at the venue. CCTV Tower: Onsite or authorized online platforms.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, especially at the TVCC and CCTV Tower; book in advance for English-language tours.

Is the CCTV Tower wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with ramps and elevators for easy access.

What is the best time to visit the CCTV Tower?
Clear mornings or late afternoons for best views and lighter crowds.

Essential Tips for Visitors

Book in Advance: For major sites like the Forbidden City and Summer Palace.
Guides: Hire local guides for deeper insights and language support (Rachel Meets China).
Connectivity: Use eSIMs or local SIM cards; VPN recommended for foreign visitors (Rachel Meets China).
Dress for Weather: July is hot and humid; bring sun protection and water (Weather25).
Respect Local Customs: Especially in cultural and historical sites.

Visuals and Interactive Elements

Add high-quality photos:
- TVCC exterior with dynamic angular design (alt: “Beijing Television Center TVCC exterior angular design”)
- CCTV Tower observation deck view (alt: “Panoramic view from CCTV Tower observation deck, Beijing”)
- CCTV Headquarters illuminated at night (alt: “CCTV Headquarters illuminated at night, Beijing”)
Embed a map showing TVCC, CCTV Tower, and key nearby attractions.
Include links to virtual tours if available.

Conclusion

The Beijing Television Center and associated landmarks—CCTV Headquarters and CCTV Tower—offer a compelling mix of architectural grandeur, cultural engagement, and panoramic city experiences. With user-friendly visitor amenities, guided tours, and a wealth of nearby attractions, these sites are essential stops for anyone exploring Beijing’s vibrant urban landscape.

Plan ahead for hours and ticketing, explore cultural and dining options, and immerse yourself in the city’s modern and historical highlights. For real-time updates, insider recommendations, and more travel content, download the Audiala app and connect with fellow travelers on social media.