Beijing Planetarium, Beijing -  National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing.
1 / 10

Beijing Planetarium

3.5
·28 reviews·, China

Explore the wonders of the universe at the Beijing Planetarium, featuring stunning dome shows, interactive exhibits, and a 3D space theater.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Beijing Planetarium, Beijing -  National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing.

Beijing Planetarium

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the wonders of the universe at the Beijing Planetarium, featuring stunning dome shows, interactive exhibits, and a 3D space theater.

3.5
(28 reviews)

"An awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos that will leave you starry-eyed!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Dome Show Tickets

Dome show tickets sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot for the most popular shows.

🚇 Use the Subway

The Planetarium is easily accessible via the Beijing subway. Line 4 to Xizhimen Station is a convenient option.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Starry Sky

The Grand Starry Sky

Planetarium Dome

Immerse yourself in the cosmos with breathtaking dome shows that bring the universe to life. A must-see for stargazers!

Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Exhibition Halls

Explore fascinating displays on astronomy, space exploration, and the wonders of the universe. Fun for all ages!

3D Space Theater

3D Space Theater

3D Theater

Experience the thrill of space travel with immersive 3D films that transport you to distant galaxies and celestial phenomena.

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Many popular Beijing attractions, including the Beijing Planetarium, require advance ticket booking. Check their official website or WeChat mini-program to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

Navigate with Ease

Beijing's subway system is extensive and efficient. Familiarize yourself with the metro map and consider purchasing a transit card for seamless travel between attractions like the Planetarium and other city highlights. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Dome shows often have more showings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✈️ Coming to China soon? Let me show you exactly how to ride the subway and bus like a local 📌 Save this post for your next trip I’m a local guide based in Beijing and I love helping travelers get ar...
@yuting0037
13K likes • 143.9K views

🎯 Book Dome Show Tickets

Dome show tickets sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot for the most popular shows. TikTok

🚇 Use the Subway

The Planetarium is easily accessible via the Beijing subway. Line 4 to Xizhimen Station is a convenient option. TikTok

#chinatravel #fyp #China #travel #tour #views #chinese #guide #beijing
@nanachinatour
9.2K likes • 118.2K views
5 Day Beijing Itinerary 🇨🇳 The perfect city break with ancient culture, world wonders and rollercoasters! #beijing #beijingtravel #chinaitinerary
@mattlivingabroad
8.6K likes • 247.5K views

🗣️ Language Assistance

While some exhibits have English translations, consider using a translation app for a richer experience. TikTok

📸 Capture the Moment

Photography is generally allowed in exhibition areas, but check for specific restrictions in the dome theaters. TikTok

Museos en Beijing >>>🎨🖼️ #Beijing #CoolSpotsBeijing #ThingsToDoInBeijing
@leilaarvizu
7.8K likes • 94.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Dome Show Tickets

Dome show tickets sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot for the most popular shows. TikTok

🚇 Use the Subway

The Planetarium is easily accessible via the Beijing subway. Line 4 to Xizhimen Station is a convenient option. TikTok

🗣️ Language Assistance

While some exhibits have English translations, consider using a translation app for a richer experience. TikTok

📸 Capture the Moment

Photography is generally allowed in exhibition areas, but check for specific restrictions in the dome theaters. TikTok

What Travellers Say

3.5
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the immersive dome shows and engaging interactive exhibits at the Beijing Planetarium, calling it a 'must-see' for space enthusiasts and families. While some find the ticketing system a bit complex, the educational and awe-inspiring experience of exploring the cosmos makes it a highly recommended attraction. TikTok

"The Beijing Planetarium is an impressive and educational destination. The exhibits feature detailed models and fascinating artifacts that showcase the history and advancements of astronomy in China. The staff are friendly and enthusiastic, providing helpful guidance to international visitors. However, watching the films can be challenging as they are only available in Chinese, which limits the experience for non-Chinese speakers."

Anh Ngoc

"The planetarium is nice but filled with annoying kids. I like that there are alot of english translations so tourists like me can understand. Tickets cost rmb 30 inclusive of a 4d show"

Ember Shen

"Most of the exhibition was not working or broken. Such as buttons on diagrams where missing so those parts could not light up.
The planetarium isn't anything much without a ticket to a show so you really need one to make the trip worth it at all. Unfortunately the shows at movies and one is a planetarium but small and with low level equipment and graphics overall super disappointed since u expected a city like Beijing to have a great museum and technology."

Belle Hunter

What People Like

Immersive dome shows
Interactive exhibits
Educational content

What People Dislike

Advance booking required
Language barriers on some exhibits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Beijing Planetarium is easily accessible by subway. Take Line 4 to Xizhimen Station and use Exit B. From there, it's a short walk. Buses are also an option, with several routes stopping nearby. TikTok

Taxis are generally available in Beijing, but during peak hours, they can be difficult to hail. Using ride-sharing apps like Didi is a popular and often more reliable alternative. TikTok

Beijing's subway system is extensive and efficient for traveling between major attractions. Consider purchasing a Yikatong card for easy tap-and-go travel. TikTok

Limited parking may be available, but it's often crowded. Public transportation is highly recommended to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

Yes, with a local SIM card or international roaming, you can use navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Google Maps (with a VPN) to find your way. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance online through the official Beijing Planetarium website or their WeChat mini-program. This helps secure your entry, especially for popular dome shows. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the Planetarium is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with specific times for exhibitions and shows. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule. TikTok

Yes, there are typically separate tickets for the main exhibitions and the various dome shows and 3D theater presentations. Prices vary depending on the show. TikTok

While some tickets might be available on the day, it's risky, especially for popular dome shows which often sell out in advance. Booking ahead is strongly advised. TikTok

Discounts may be available for students, children, and seniors. Check the official ticketing platform for eligibility and pricing details. TikTok

🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the immersive dome shows in the Grand Starry Sky theater, the interactive exhibits in the main halls, and the thrilling 3D Space Theater for a truly cosmic adventure. TikTok

Absolutely! The Planetarium offers engaging and educational exhibits and shows that are perfect for children, sparking their curiosity about space and science. TikTok

To fully enjoy the exhibitions and catch a show, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you want to see multiple shows, allocate half a day. TikTok

While official guided tours might be limited, the exhibits are designed to be informative. You can also find information online or use translation apps to enhance your understanding. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted in the exhibition halls, but it's best to check for any specific restrictions, especially within the theaters. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Planetarium typically has a cafe or snack bar offering light refreshments and beverages. For full meals, you'll find more options in the surrounding areas. TikTok

Expect typical cafe fare like coffee, tea, soft drinks, and perhaps some snacks or light meals. It's convenient for a quick bite. TikTok

Yes, the area around the Planetarium, especially near Xizhimen Station, offers a wide variety of restaurants, from local Beijing cuisine to international options. TikTok

It's generally advisable to check the Planetarium's policy on outside food and drinks, but usually, it's best to consume them in designated areas or outside the main exhibition spaces. TikTok

Explore the streets around Xizhimen for local eateries serving classic Beijing dishes like Peking Duck, Zhajiangmian (fried sauce noodles), and various street snacks. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture of the Planetarium can be quite striking. Inside, the vastness of the dome theaters and the colorful exhibits offer great photo opportunities. TikTok

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during the dome shows to avoid disturbing other viewers and for copyright reasons. Always look for signage. TikTok

A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the exhibits and dome interiors. Good low-light performance is also beneficial for indoor shots. TikTok

Drone photography is strictly prohibited in and around most attractions in Beijing, including the Planetarium, due to airspace regulations. TikTok

Walk around the grounds to find interesting angles of the building's unique design. The surrounding park areas might also offer good vantage points. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Beijing Planetarium is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive exhibits are designed to captivate young minds, making learning about space an adventure. The 3D Space Theater offers an exciting visual experience that kids will love, transporting them to alien worlds and distant galaxies. TikTok

Tip: Prioritize booking tickets for the dome shows in advance, as they are a major highlight and can sell out. Consider the age appropriateness of the shows when selecting your tickets. The Planetarium is also a great place to foster a child's interest in STEM subjects in a fun and engaging environment. TikTok

🚀 Space Enthusiasts & Science Buffs

For anyone with a passion for astronomy and space exploration, the Beijing Planetarium is a must-visit. The Grand Starry Sky dome show provides an unparalleled view of the cosmos, offering detailed insights into celestial bodies and phenomena. The exhibits delve into the history of space exploration, astrophysics, and the latest discoveries. TikTok

Tip: Look for shows that focus on specific astronomical events or deep-space exploration for a more in-depth experience. The interactive nature of the exhibits allows for hands-on learning, making complex scientific concepts more accessible and engaging. TikTok

📸 Photography Lovers

The Beijing Planetarium offers unique photographic opportunities, from its striking modern architecture to the vastness of its dome theaters. While photography is restricted during shows, the exhibition halls provide ample chances to capture interesting displays and the wonder on visitors' faces. TikTok

Tip: Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the exhibits and dome interiors. The lighting can be atmospheric, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod (if permitted) can be beneficial for capturing stunning shots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Cosmos: Dome Shows and Theaters

The heart of the Beijing Planetarium experience lies in its state-of-the-art dome theaters. The Grand Starry Sky is a massive projection dome that offers an unparalleled view of the night sky, showcasing constellations, planets, and celestial events with stunning clarity. Shows are often narrated, providing an educational and awe-inspiring journey through the universe. TikTok

Beyond the main dome, the 3D Space Theater provides an even more immersive experience. Here, you'll feel like you're actually traveling through space, with films that utilize advanced 3D technology to bring nebulae, galaxies, and the frontiers of space exploration right before your eyes. It's a thrilling way to learn about the cosmos. TikTok

Pro-tip: Tickets for these shows are often sold separately and can be in high demand. It's crucial to book your dome show tickets in advance online or via their WeChat mini-program to avoid disappointment, especially during weekends and holidays. TikTok

Interactive Learning: Exhibits for All Ages

The Beijing Planetarium isn't just about watching; it's about engaging. Its exhibition halls are filled with interactive displays designed to make learning about astronomy and space science fun and accessible for everyone. You can explore models of the solar system, learn about the physics of stars, and discover the history of space exploration through hands-on activities. TikTok

These exhibits are thoughtfully curated to cater to a wide range of ages and interests. Children will be fascinated by the tactile elements and colorful visuals, while adults can delve deeper into the scientific principles behind celestial phenomena. It’s a fantastic place for families to learn together and spark a lifelong interest in science. TikTok

Many of the displays offer explanations in both Chinese and English, making it easier for international visitors to understand the concepts. However, having a translation app handy can further enhance the learning experience, allowing you to grasp the nuances of complex scientific topics. TikTok

Navigating Beijing: Getting to the Planetarium

Reaching the Beijing Planetarium is straightforward thanks to the city's efficient public transportation network. The most convenient method is by subway. Take Line 4 to Xizhimen Station, and use Exit B. From there, it's a short and pleasant walk to the Planetarium entrance. This is often the quickest and most stress-free way to arrive, avoiding Beijing's notorious traffic. TikTok

Several bus routes also serve the area around the Planetarium, offering an alternative if you prefer bus travel or are coming from a different part of the city. Check local transit apps or maps for the most suitable bus lines based on your starting point. TikTok

For those who prefer taxis or ride-sharing, Didi (China's equivalent of Uber) is widely used and reliable. However, be aware that during peak hours, traffic can be heavy, and finding a taxi might take some time. Using a navigation app on your phone, especially one that works well in China like Baidu Maps, will be invaluable for finding your way. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2