Discover the audacious architecture and poetic sunset of Beijing’s Central Business District (CBD) in one compact, visually stunning walk.
Start: Guomao Station (Exit C) → Stop 1: China Zun & CCTV Building → Stop 2: Panda靠靠 → Stop 3: China Bar (for the view) → End: Jintai Xizhao Station (for sunset).
🗺️ Navigation Tip: For precise walking directions between these modern landmarks, use Amap or Baidu Map. They are the most reliable local apps for navigating Beijing’s intricate streets.
Meet the icons of modern Beijing:
Keep an eye out for Panda靠靠—a cute, roving panda pop-up installation. It’s a playful, Instagram-friendly counterpoint to the serious towers. (Tip: Check social media for its latest pop-up location before you go.)
For the ultimate panorama, ascend to China Bar (80F, China World Summit Wing). It’s the perfect place to sit with a drink and watch the golden hour ignite the skyscraper forest below, with China Zun and CCTV in full view.
If you want to extend your evening, you’re in luck. The Sanlitun三里屯 and Guomao国贸 areas are right next to the CBD, and they are both major nightlife hubs. You can easily walk to many spots from here. So, you’ll find everything from sophisticated hotel lounges to lively craft beer bars.
But maybe you want to learn more about the buildings you just saw. For example, if you’re curious about the CCTV Headquarters, then the Lonely Planet guide offers excellent background on its history and design.
Also, understanding the city’s layout helps with planning. Chaoyang is the district that includes the CBD, and each district in Beijing has its own character. Therefore, for a broader view of where to go next, our guide to Beijing’s administrative districts is a very useful resource for your trip.
Conclude your walk at Jintai Xizhao Station 金台夕照站, named after the ancient “Golden Terrace Sunset Glow.” As the sun sets, witness how the modern “terraces” of CCTV and China Zun catch fire in the light—a perfect fusion of ancient poetry and the modern metropolis.
💡 The Takeaway
This walk offers the perfect mix: monumental scale, playful discovery, luxurious relaxation, and a timeless sunset, showing how Beijing seamlessly weaves its past into its dynamic present.
You’ve seen the blueprint of modern Beijing. Now, let us guide you through its living story.
At Our Beijing, we don’t just show you landmarks—we connect you to the city’s pulse. From curated hutong walks that reveal hidden histories to expert-led expeditions along the Great Wall, we design experiences that transform sightseeing into genuine discovery.
👉 Explore Our Curated Beijing Experiences & Book Your Adventure