The Beijing Olympic Park, home to iconic structures like the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, transforms into a stunning autumn landscape, especially with its vibrant ginkgo trees. This guide outlines a picturesque route perfect for photography and leisurely exploration, showcasing the park’s beauty during the ginkgo season. The ideal time to visit is from late October to early November when the ginkgo leaves are at their peak.
Recommended Route (Estimated Duration: 2 Hours)
Starting Point: Olympic Sports Center B1 or B2 Exit
Entrance: Olympic Central Zone Gate 3
Ginkgo Groves: West side of the Bird’s Nest (three ginkgo forests)
Main Avenue: Stroll along the central avenue, admiring the ginkgo trees on both sides
Ginkgo Grove: South side of the Olympic Tower (great for photos with the tower)
Food Street: Carbon Water Food Street (next to the Olympic Tower)
Sculpture Exhibition: Explore the nearby sculpture exhibition
Light Show: South Garden South Gate Light and Shadow Exhibition
Exit: Olympic Park South Gate A Exit
Tips for Your Visit:
Best Time to Visit: From Late October to Early November
Timing: To avoid crowds, plan your visit before 9 AM or after 5 PM, especially around the Bird’s Nest, which attracts many tourists.
Peak Viewing: The ginkgo trees west of the Bird’s Nest will be in their prime viewing season until the end of October, so make sure to visit before then.
Olympic Tower Views: The ginkgo grove south of the Olympic Tower (one traffic light away from the main avenue) is also in excellent viewing condition and perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
Carbon Water Festival: The Beijing International Carbon Water Festival runs from October 18-20 and 25-27, from 3 PM to 10 PM, along the central axis scenic avenue next to the Olympic Tower.
Light Exhibition: The immersive light and shadow exhibition, “Chasing Dreams,” takes place from October 19 to November 10, from 5:30 PM to 10 PM, with tickets priced at ¥38 for one person, ¥68 for two, and ¥98 for three.