When people think of Beijing, they often picture imperial palaces, ancient temples, and narrow hutongs. But there’s another side to this city — one that’s bold, futuristic, and constantly evolving. At Our Beijing, we spend our days exploring both the old and the new. And while we love a quiet courtyard or a bike ride through the past, we’re just as fascinated by the dramatic skylines and world-class architecture shaping Beijing’s future. Whether you’re an architecture lover or just looking to see a less touristy side of the city, this guide will introduce you to five incredible modern landmarks — plus tips on how to explore them like a local.
Arguably Beijing’s most iconic modern building, the CCTV Headquarters is impossible to miss. Designed by Rem Koolhaas and Ole Scheeren, its looped form has earned it the nickname “大裤衩” — the Big Pants.
📍 Location: Central Business District (CBD)
📸 Best time to see it: At night, when it’s dramatically lit
🧭 Local tip: Walk around nearby Guanghua Lu to get the best street-level views.
Want to explore the area on two wheels? Our Beijing bike tours sometimes pass by the edges of CBD, depending on your route. Ask us about custom itineraries that mix modern and traditional neighborhoods.
Less famous but just as striking, the Phoenix International Media Center is a fluid, nest-like structure located west of the city center. It’s often compared to a spaceship or a Möbius strip — and few tourists know it exists.
📍 Location: Fengtai District
🎯 Pro tip: It’s best appreciated from above — grab a rooftop coffee nearby!
Zaha Hadid’s Galaxy SOHO is a marvel of flowing, organic design. This commercial and office complex is futuristic, walkable, and has become a favorite among design lovers and photographers.
📍 Location: Chaoyangmen
🧭 Explore tip: Walk from Galaxy SOHO to the historic Dongsi area to experience the contrast between ultra-modern and old Beijing.
We often recommend this walk as part of a custom Beijing itinerary — you can go from 2025 to 1750 in 15 minutes.
Known locally as “The Egg,” this titanium and glass dome seems to float on water just west of Tiananmen Square. Designed by French architect Paul Andreu, it houses opera, concerts, and theater.
📍 Location: Xicheng District
🎭 Pro tip: Catch a performance inside — the acoustics are world-class.
Planning a culture-focused day in Beijing? Pair a visit here with one of our cultural workshops to get both high design and hands-on tradition.
Even if you’re not an architecture fan, Daxing Airport will wow you. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, its starfish shape maximizes efficiency while making a bold visual statement.
📍 Location: Southern edge of Beijing
🛫 Why it matters: It’s now the main entry point for many visitors — and a reason to arrive early at the airport.
Exploring modern architecture isn’t just about cool buildings — it’s about understanding how Beijing is transforming. These landmarks tell stories of a city in motion, of ambition, reinvention, and global reach.
They’re also great anchor points for exploring neighborhoods off the usual tourist map — something we care deeply about at Our Beijing.
If you’re interested in seeing a different side of Beijing, we can help build a day that mixes iconic architecture with local eats, bike rides, and creative workshops. Check out our:
Beijing is not just a city frozen in time — it’s a place that keeps building, designing, and surprising. Let’s go explore it together.