This guide reveals the 10 best places to see Beijing skyline, ensuring that visitors leave with memories and photographs as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.
The Beijing skyline is a magnificent tapestry that weaves the ancient with the modern, showcasing a city where history and progress coexist beautifully.
From lush parks offering sweeping views of historic landmarks to contemporary architectural marvels that light up the night sky, Beijing presents an array of stunning perspectives for the discerning traveler.
1. Jingshan Park (景山公园）
Begin your skyline exploration at Jingshan Park, first of the 10 best places to see Beijing skyline. This historic park, located directly north of the Forbidden City, is a prime spot for panoramic views.
Ascend the artificial hill at the center of the park for a breathtaking sight of Beijing’s historic heart, including the Forbidden City, Drum and Bell Towers, and the traditional hutong neighborhoods along the Central Axis of Beijing.
This vantage point offers a 360-degree perspective, ideal for skyline photography.
How to get there: Easily accessible by public transport, take bus 124, 111, or 58 and alight at Jingshan Dongmen.
2. Central Radio & TV Tower (中央广播电视塔)
Perched high above the city, the Central Radio & TV Tower offers one of the most striking and modern vistas of Beijing. Its observation deck, standing at a lofty 238 meters, provides a 360-degree panorama of the city, where ancient landmarks and cutting-edge architecture coexist in perfect harmony.
On a clear day, the views are simply breathtaking. You can gaze across the city and see the distant Western Hills, the serene Summer Palace, and even iconic landmarks like the white Dagoba in Beihai Park. From this vantage point, the sprawling cityscape unfolds, with the historic Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the modern CBD area featuring the towering CCTV Headquarters and China Zun standing proudly in the skyline.
Getting to the tower is easy. Located at No. 11, Middle of West 3rd Ring Road, in Haidian District, the Central Radio & TV Tower is well-served by public transportation and taxis. To reach it by subway, take Line 1 and alight at Gongzhufen Station. From there, it’s just a short walk north toward the west gate of Yuyuantan Park, where the tower stands opposite the park’s entrance.
3. Beijing Olympic Tower (奥林匹克塔)
The Beijing Olympic Tower is the tallest structure within the Olympic Park. Comprising five towers, it stands as the sixth-highest observation tower in China. The tower’s design is inspired by the “Tree of Life,” and its nail-like shape has earned it the playful nickname “Nail Tower” among locals. It’s a striking modern landmark that reflects Beijing’s forward-looking spirit.
Take the elevator to the 76th floor, soaring to a height of 246 meters. From the 360-degree observation deck, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Beijing. Look down to see iconic landmarks like the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) as well as the sprawling Olympic Park. The view is especially breathtaking at sunset or during the night when the city lights up in a dazzling display.
For just 128 RMB, you can access the observation deck and experience these awe-inspiring sights. The tower is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with the last entry at 9:30 PM.
How to Get There: To reach the Olympic Tower, take Subway Line 8 and get off at the Olympic Green Station. From there, it’s a short walk to the tower, which is located within the Olympic Park. The area is well-signposted, so you’ll have no trouble finding the entrance.
4. China World Trade Center Tower III (国贸三期)
For a taste of Beijing’s future, head to the CBD at night. The area’s luminous skyscrapers create a dazzling contrast to the city’s ancient landmarks. Among the shining giants, the China World Trade Center, the CCTV Headquarters and China Zun stand out, offering an electrifying view of the modern urban landscape.
At the top of China World Trade Center Tower III, the 80th floor is home to Cloud Cool Bar (云酷酒吧), the highest bar in Beijing. From here, the city sparkles below. The surrounding buildings glow in the night, and the streets remain lively, bustling with cars. Cloud Cool Bar offers delightful afternoon teas, creative cocktails, and tasty snacks. It’s not just a bar—it’s a “viewing platform” with a delicious twist. You might even witness a romantic proposal while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Address: No. 1, Jianguomenwai Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing.
How to get there: The CBD is easily reachable via the subway, with multiple lines serving the area, including Line 1 and Line 10.
5. The Great Wall at Mutianyu
For a truly unique skyline view, head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Here, the wall’s ancient ramparts provide a stunning backdrop to the sprawling cityscape.
The sight of the city’s skyline from the distant mountains is a powerful reminder of Beijing’s vast history and its modern ascension.
How to get there: The best way to reach Mutianyu is by taking a bus or a taxi from downtown Beijing.
6. Bell and Drum Towers (钟鼓楼）
The Bell and Drum Towers stand tall at the northern end of Beijing’s central axis, offering a prime vantage point of the city. From the top of the Drum Tower, see south for a distant view of Jingshan’s Wanchun Pavilion.
To the southeast, the towering skyscrapers of the CBD come into view, a stark contrast to the ancient city below. As you look closer, the labyrinthine hutongs and traditional siheyuan courtyards unfold beneath your feet. It’s the perfect spot to take in Beijing’s evolving skyline.
From this height, you can truly appreciate the blend of old and new. The narrow alleys of the ancient hutongs stretch out, winding through the city like veins in a living organism. In the distance, the modern skyline rises, with glass towers and sleek buildings reaching towards the sky. It’s a rare opportunity to see both the heart of traditional Beijing and its modern face in one breathtaking panorama.
How to get there: Reachable via subway Line 8, alight at Shichahai Station.
7. Ghost Laughing Stone, Xishan (西山鬼笑石)
Ghost Laughing Stone, located in Beijing’s Xishan National Forest Park (北京西山国家森林公园), is a massive rock that juts out from the mountainside. Its name, “Ghost Laughing Stone,” comes from the eerie whistling sound created by the wind as it rushes past, giving the impression of a mysterious laugh echoing through the air. It’s a place steeped in natural wonder, where the landscape and atmosphere combine to create a truly unique experience.
Standing at the observation platform atop Guixiao Stone, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Beijing. Iconic landmarks like the Beijing TV Tower and the Summer Palace come into clear sight, offering a contrast between the ancient and the modern city. If you’re seeking a more rugged, less-crowded spot to overlook Beijing, this is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Tickets and Hours: Entry to Guixiao Stone costs 10 RMB, and after 6:00 PM, admission is free. The hike to the top takes about 1 hour, but if you’re short on time, there’s an easier way. You can drive up to the back mountain parking lot and then walk for about 20 minutes to reach the observation platform.
Transportation: If you’re driving, use a navigation app to get to Xishan National Forest Park. Alternatively, you can take Subway Line 6 to Haidian Wuluju Station (海淀五路居站), Exit A, then take a Didi (Chinese ride-sharing service) for a 10-kilometer ride to the park entrance. The journey by subway and taxi is convenient and straightforward, making it accessible even if you’re not driving.
8. Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park Observation Deck (南苑森林湿地公园观景台)
Nestled on the southern edge of Beijing, Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park offers an idyllic escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Situated just beyond the city’s Fourth Ring Road in Fengtai District, the Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park Observation Deck is one of the key viewpoints along the city’s southern central axis.
Standing at an impressive 20 meters tall, with a total area of around 1540 square meters, the observation deck is located atop Dongtu Mountain. At a height of 39 meters, the tower reaches a total elevation of 59 meters, making it the highest viewing point within the lush greenery of Nanyuan.
From this vantage point, visitors are treated to a sweeping 360-degree view of the park and the surrounding area. You can gaze out over the vast wetland, the southern central axis of Beijing, and important landmarks like the Western Hills, Lize, and the CBD area. The scenery is vast and serene, offering both a natural and urban panorama.
Getting There: To reach the park by subway, take Line 4 and get off at Xingong Station or Jiaomen East Station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the park’s North Gate 1.
9. Observation Deck on the Gongbei Pavilion (功碑阁)
The Gongbei Pavilion stands as the highest landmark in the Shijingshan District in Beijing, with an impressive height of 55.25 meters. Built in 1993, the pavilion was designed to resemble the famous Fuxiang Pavilion on Wanshou Mountain in the Summer Palace. After several renovations, the main restoration was completed by the end of 2023, and the pavilion reopened in January 2024.
Climbing to the top of the pavilion, you’re treated to expansive views. To the east, the modern cityscape of Beijing unfolds beneath you, while to the west, the ancient Yongding River winds through the landscape. The natural scenery and cultural landmarks harmoniously blend together.
Shijingshan’s cultural heritage dates back to the Tang Dynasty. At the mountain’s peak, there once stood the Golden Pavilion and a stupa, originally built during the Tang period. The stupa, with its lotus-shaped design, was constructed on a brick-and-stone foundation but was destroyed in later wars.
How to Get There: Take the special No. 108 bus to reach the pavilion.
Opening Hours: The pavilion is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). It’s closed on Mondays, except for public holidays.
Admission: Entry is free, but reservations are required. You can book your visit via the “Shijingshan Cultural and Tourism” WeChat account.
10. Fragrant Hills (Xiangshan)
End your Beijing adventure with a visit to Fragrant Hills, located to the west of the city. It’s one of the top 10 spots for an unforgettable view of the Beijing skyline. The area offers a stunning blend of city and nature, where the sprawling urban landscape meets the lush green hills, creating a perfect harmony of contrasts.
From the hilltop, you can take in panoramic views of the city stretching far below, with the peaks of the surrounding mountains providing a serene backdrop. The beauty of the place lies in its peaceful atmosphere and the way it seamlessly combines Beijing’s modern skyline with its natural surroundings.
By Subway: Take the subway to Bagou Station, then transfer to the Xijiao Line. Get off at Xiangshan Park Station to reach your destination.
Each of the 10 best places to see Beijing skyline offers a unique perspective on Beijing’s dynamic skyline, capturing the city’s rich cultural heritage and urban vibrancy.
Whether you’re gazing from ancient ramparts, lush parks, or modern skyscrapers, the travel guide”10 Best Places to View Beijing Skyline” provides an unforgettable visual experience, blending the past, present, and future into a singular, awe-inspiring panorama.
