Beijing’s 798 Art Zone, a vibrant hub for contemporary art, culture, and unique photography spots, is a must-visit for those wanting to capture the essence of the city’s artistic scene. With its unique mix of industrial architecture, modern art galleries, and quirky boutiques, the area offers countless opportunities for stunning photos. After spending an afternoon scouting the best spots, I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the 798 Art Zone, capture the best shots, and make the most of your visit. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just looking to snap some great pictures, this guide will help you find the most Instagrammable places.
Recommended Route
Starting Point: Beijing 798 Art Zone (Gate 2)
Step! Teahouse (Orange Dinosaur): This spot is hard to miss due to its colorful orange dinosaur sculpture. It’s perfect for a playful and vibrant shot, offering a fun contrast against the industrial backdrop of 798.
798 Red Stone Plaza (Liu Wen Mural Wall): Next, head to the 798 Red Stone Plaza to find the stunning mural featuring Chinese supermodel Liu Wen. The mural is a popular photo spot, and the vibrant colors and dynamic composition make for an eye-catching photograph.
Matcha Tea (Rotating Tower): For a more architectural shot, stop by Matcha Tea, where you’ll find a unique rotating tower. The clean lines and modern design make this an excellent spot for more minimalistic photos.
Drama Spirit Art Space (Red Horse Head): Continue your journey to Drama Spirit Art Space, known for its bold red horsehead sculpture. This art installation offers a striking contrast against the surrounding industrial space, perfect for an artistic shot.
Persian Culture and Art Center: The Persian Cultural and Art Center is another hidden gem in 798. With its elegant design and colorful displays, it’s a great location for capturing the fusion of different cultures and creative expressions.
Liu Mama’s Dumplings (Dumpling Shop Front): For a more culinary-focused photo, visit Liu Mama’s Dumpling Shop. The shop’s iconic dumpling sign adds a whimsical touch, and its colorful exterior makes for an excellent snapshot.
Cat’s Travel Case (Vintage Alley): Explore the charming vintage alley near Cat’s Travel Case, where you can capture the essence of 798’s bohemian vibe. The eclectic shops and unique decor create an ideal scene for an artsy photograph.
Underneath Vintage (Fabric Shopfront): For a more tactile shot, head to Underneath Vintage, where the shopfront’s fabric displays add texture and depth to your photos, complementing the creative atmosphere of the art zone.
BIGEATS Sandwich: Take a break and grab a photo of BIGEATS Sandwich, a great spot for food photography with its vibrant and photogenic menu.
UCCA (Ullens Center for Contemporary Art): UCCA is a must-visit for art lovers and photographers. The contemporary exhibitions combined with the industrial architecture create a unique juxtaposition, perfect for a creative shot.
Train Station Plaza: A charming open space perfect for wider shots of the 798 Art Zone. The industrial structures and sculptures here provide a great backdrop for portraits or architectural photography.
E03 Gallery (Graffiti Building): Next, head to the E03 Gallery, where the colorful graffiti-covered building stands out. It’s one of the most popular photography spots in 798, offering vibrant street art perfect for dynamic and colorful shots.
SpringCameras (Vintage Camera Store): For photography enthusiasts, a stop at SpringCameras is a must. The vintage camera shop is not only a photo opportunity but also a great place to learn about old-school photography.
Yaku Cafe (Pink Coffee Shop): Located near the center, Yaku Cafe’s pink interior makes it an Instagram-worthy spot for a cozy and vibrant cafe photo.
Pupu: Pupu is a quirky little shop that offers a playful vibe for your photos. Whether you’re shooting its eclectic interior or its creative window displays, this spot adds an artsy touch to your photo journey.
Hyundai Motor Cultural Center (Giant Mural): End your photography tour with a visit to the Hyundai Motor Cultural Center. Its enormous mural, featuring bold designs and vibrant colors, makes for a spectacular and dramatic final shot.
End Point: Beijing 798 Art Zone (Gate 4)
Additional Tips for Your Visit
- The 798 Art Zone is not near any metro stations, so it’s best to take a bus from Jiantie Station (Exit A) or walk from a nearby station.
- Many stores in the area, especially vintage shops, prohibit photography, so be mindful of store rules.
- The cafes and restaurants inside 798 are a bit pricier, but you’ll also find chain coffee shops at more affordable prices. For convenience, grab water from a nearby convenience store before starting your walk.
- It’s recommended to visit from 12 PM to 6 PM as many shops open later, especially the vintage camera store, which opens at 12:30 PM.