The Central Television Tower (CCTV Tower) stands west of Xisanhuan Road, near Yuyuantan Park and the Diaoyutai Guest House, in western Beijing. At approximately 405 meters tall, it ranks among Chine's highest radio and television transmission structures and offers, from its observation platform, a panoramic view of the Chinese capital.

Why visit the Central Television Tower

Less frequented than the historic sites in central Beijing, the tower provides a privileged vantage point to grasp the scale of the city and its contemporary urban landscape. A visit combines three compelling elements: an observation platform, a revolving restaurant offering a complete 360-degree rotation in approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, and a park-aquarium at its base. It's a worthwhile option for a half-day outing away from the crowds of the Forbidden City or the Temple of Heaven.

History of the tower

Construction of the Central Television Tower began in January 1987, during a period of rapid modernization in Beijing. The project spanned seven years: the tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It was long presented as Chine's third-highest tower and among the world's tallest—a ranking now surpassed by the proliferation of Asian skyscrapers, though it remains emblematic of the tower's pioneering role in the capital's urban landscape. Beyond its tourist function, it remains an operational pillar of Chine's radio and television broadcasting infrastructure.

What to see and do on site

The ground floor and East Hall

The visit begins at the base of the tower, where the ticket office and main hall are located. The first floor houses the East Hall, an exhibition space dedicated to Beijing culture. Notably, you'll find a monumental stone sculpture affixed to the wall, along with a series of photographs chronicling Beijing's history and folk traditions.

The observation platform (22nd floor)

An elevator leads directly to the 22nd floor, which combines a glass-enclosed observation room and an open-air terrace. On clear days, the view extends to the Summer Palace, the western hills, and along Chang'an Avenue, the east-west axis that structures the city. The 23rd floor above houses the Liuyun Hall, dedicated to private events and functions; it is not accessible to visitors.

The TV Culture Hall (19th floor)

At 225 meters altitude, the 19th floor presents the TV Culture Hall, a permanent exhibition on the station's history, the evolution of broadcasting techniques, and video surveillance technology. Several radio and television broadcasting installations are also displayed here.

The revolving restaurant (18th floor)

Located at 221 meters, the 18th floor houses a revolving restaurant with 250 seats that completes a full rotation in approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. The buffet offers both Chine and Western dishes. Beyond the meal itself, it's an opportunity to enjoy a 360-degree panorama while seated.

Ocean Park (Taipingyang)

At the base of the tower lies the Taipingyang Park, or Ocean Park, which features an aquarium and small wildlife exhibits. It's a worthwhile complementary visit if traveling with children. Admission requires a separate ticket from the tower.

Practical information

• Duration of visit: allow 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours for the tower alone, up to a half-day when adding the aquarium and a meal at the revolving restaurant.
• Admission fees: separate tickets for the tower and Ocean Park; moderate pricing, subject to variation—check on site for current rates.
• Hours: open during daytime through evening. A late-afternoon visit allows you to see Beijing by day, at sunset, and illuminated.
• Tip: choose a day with low pollution to enjoy distant views of the western hills.

How to get there

The tower is located west of Beijing, on the edge of Yuyuantan Park. Several bus lines serve the area:

• Alight at Hangtianqiao South Station for direct access to the tower.
• Alight at Yuyuantan Station and walk to the park's west gate.

Beijing's metro does not serve the tower's base directly; a taxi or ride-share from the city center remains the most straightforward option if you don't read Chine characters.

Nearby attractions

The tower fits into a broader Beijing itinerary. To extend your exploration of the region, several major sites are within reach:

• The Great Wall at Juyongguan, one of the fortified passes closest to Beijing.
• Neighboring Yuyuantan Park, appreciated in spring for its cherry blossoms.
• Historic center sites: the Forbidden City, Tian'anmen Square, the Temple of Heaven.

Extend your journey

The Central Television Tower integrates seamlessly into a Beijing visit and can serve as a reference point for exploring the capital's west. To craft a custom itinerary blending major historic sites, urban panoramas, and excursions beyond the city, consult our suggestions for travel in Chine.