Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre - Image 1
1 / 10

Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre

4.5
·35 reviews·Nan Jing Shi, China

A stunning architectural marvel by Zaha Hadid, this centre hosts major events and showcases modern design in Nanjing's CBD.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre - Image 1

Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning architectural marvel by Zaha Hadid, this centre hosts major events and showcases modern design in Nanjing's CBD.

4.5
(35 reviews)

"Impressive modern architecture and well-maintained spaces make it a great venue for events."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this massive complex. Comfortable footwear is a must for a pleasant visit.

Check event schedules :calendar:

The centre hosts various events, from sports to exhibitions. Knowing what's on can enhance your visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Marvel

Architectural Marvel

Entire Complex

A stunning example of modern architecture, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. Its unique, flowing forms are a sight to behold.

Conference and Exhibition Center

Conference and Exhibition Center

Main Conference Hall

Host to numerous events, from international conferences to sporting matches. Check the schedule for current happenings.

Twin Towers

Twin Towers

North and South Towers

These soaring towers offer impressive views and house various facilities, contributing to the city's modern skyline.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre can get busy, especially during events. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Check their schedule for any special exhibitions or performances that might impact your visit.

Navigating the Centre's Vast Spaces

This is a sprawling complex with multiple venues. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand, especially if you have specific events or areas you want to visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
During off-peak event times
Why
Enjoy exhibits without rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Chinese Dream – Unbelievable Performance at Youth #olympics Game Nanjing 2014. #xuhuong #foryoupage #nghesankhau #Event #LearnOnTikTok
@nghesankhau
39K likes • 792.7K views

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this massive complex. Comfortable footwear is a must for a pleasant visit. Reddit

Check event schedules :calendar:

The centre hosts various events, from sports to exhibitions. Knowing what's on can enhance your visit. TikTok

She won a bronze medal in the girls' 10 m air pistol shooting at the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics in Nanjing, China. #OlympicsCountdown #foryoupage
@kenshiro716
34.2K likes • 431.7K views
What do the Shanghai Tower, Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre, and One World Trade Center have in common? They were all brought to life with BIM. 👏 Ready to learn how this game-changing technology is shaping modern architecture? 🤩 Our exclusive #masterclass, BIM in Modern Architecture, is happening live on August 7th, 2025, at 9:00 PM IST. Learn from a BIM Master Mr. Peter Birkholz a...
technostruct_academy
24 likes • 3.5K views

Explore Hexi New Town :cityscape:

Located in Nanjing's new CBD, the surrounding area offers more modern architecture and urban exploration. Instagram

BIM is key :computer:

Learn about how Building Information Modeling (BIM) made this architectural marvel possible. Instagram+1

The Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre is a testament to the power of BIM! This architectural marvel wouldn’t be possible without it. BIM streamlined the design, fabrication, and construction, resulting in a truly iconic landmark . . .Branding, Editing and Curation: The Absurd Architect (@theabsurdarchitect ) . .#NanjingCentre #ZahaHadid #BIM #Architecture #Construction #Innovation #BIM ...
quess_bim
7 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this massive complex. Comfortable footwear is a must for a pleasant visit. Reddit

Check event schedules :calendar:

The centre hosts various events, from sports to exhibitions. Knowing what's on can enhance your visit. TikTok

Explore Hexi New Town :cityscape:

Located in Nanjing's new CBD, the surrounding area offers more modern architecture and urban exploration. Instagram

BIM is key :computer:

Learn about how Building Information Modeling (BIM) made this architectural marvel possible. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(35 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre for its impressive, modern architecture and well-maintained facilities. It's noted as a great venue for events, including sports and exhibitions, offering a good overall experience. Some visitors mention the vastness of the space, which requires comfortable footwear.

"Very well maintained has a huge space for exhibit."

Hashir Mateen

"Good time spend watching basketball"

Lina Maniušytė

"Great place"

Virender Sharma

What People Like

Impressive modern architecture
Well-maintained spaces
Great for events

What People Dislike

Vastness requires walking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The centre is located in Hexi New Town, Nanjing's new central business district. It's accessible via public transport, with subway lines serving the area. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Instagram

Yes, there are basement parking areas available for visitors. It's advisable to check specific parking fees and availability on the day of your visit.

The area is well-connected by Nanjing's subway system. Walking is also a good option for exploring the immediate vicinity, especially along the riverfront. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general public areas of the centre is usually free. However, specific events, exhibitions, or performances held within the complex may require separate tickets. It's best to check the official schedule for any ticketed events. TikTok

The opening hours can vary depending on the specific venue or event within the complex. Generally, public areas are accessible during business hours, but it's recommended to check the schedule for any specific attractions or events you plan to attend.

While official guided tours might not be consistently available for the entire complex, you can often find information about the architecture and its design online. Some events might include guided components. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The centre hosts a wide range of events, including international conferences, exhibitions, sporting events like basketball, and cultural performances. It was also a venue for the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, the centre can be family-friendly, especially if there are specific events or exhibitions that appeal to children. The vast spaces can be exciting for kids to explore. Reddit

The architectural design itself is a major attraction. It also includes a conference centre, two prominent towers, and large exhibition spaces. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted in public areas for personal use. However, some specific exhibitions or events might have restrictions, so it's always good to check signage or ask staff.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the complex typically includes various dining facilities, from cafes to restaurants, catering to visitors and event attendees. Options may vary depending on the specific area you are in. Reddit

You can expect a range of options, likely including local Chinese cuisine and international fare, to cater to a diverse audience attending conferences and events. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture, especially the flowing lines and unique shapes, offers fantastic photo opportunities. The plaza area and the riverfront also provide great vantage points. Instagram

Yes, the twin towers are iconic. You can capture them from various angles around the complex and the surrounding Hexi New Town area. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around major public buildings in China. It's highly unlikely to be permitted within or around the centre without special authorization.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre can find it an engaging destination, especially if there are specific events or exhibitions scheduled. The sheer scale and unique architecture can spark curiosity in children. Wear comfortable shoes, as there's plenty of space to explore, and consider packing snacks and drinks, though dining options are available within the complex. Reddit

While not a dedicated children's attraction, the centre's open spaces and potential for sporting events (like basketball) can be entertaining. Keep an eye on the event calendar for family-friendly activities or performances that might be happening during your visit. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre is a dream location. The iconic architecture by Zaha Hadid Architects offers endless opportunities for capturing striking images, from sweeping exterior shots to intricate interior details. The flowing lines and dynamic forms are particularly photogenic. Instagram+1

Aim to visit during different times of the day to experience how the light interacts with the building's facade. The surrounding Hexi New Town and riverfront also provide excellent vantage points for capturing the towers and the overall urban landscape. Remember to be mindful of any event-specific photography restrictions. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance and Design

The Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre is a landmark architectural achievement, designed by the renowned Zaha Hadid Architects. Its distinctive, fluid forms are inspired by the natural landscape and the flow of water, reflecting Nanjing's historical connection to the Yangtze River. The complex comprises a conference centre and two soaring towers, creating a dynamic silhouette against the city skyline. Instagram+1

The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) was crucial in bringing this complex design to life. BIM technology allowed for precise planning, fabrication, and construction, ensuring the intricate details of Hadid's vision were realized. This technological integration highlights the centre as a testament to modern architectural innovation and engineering prowess. Instagram+1

Visitors often marvel at the organic curves and sweeping lines that define the centre. The interplay of light and shadow on its facade changes throughout the day, offering a constantly evolving visual experience. It's a prime example of how contemporary architecture can blend artistic expression with functional urban development. Instagram

Events and Activities

The Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre is a vibrant hub for a multitude of events. It has hosted significant international gatherings, including conferences and exhibitions, drawing professionals and academics from around the globe. Its state-of-the-art facilities make it a prime location for large-scale events. TikTok

Beyond conferences, the centre has also been a venue for major sporting events. Notably, it played a role in the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics, hosting various competitions. This demonstrates its versatility and capacity to accommodate diverse athletic and cultural activities. TikTok+1

To make the most of your visit, it's highly recommended to check the centre's official schedule for upcoming events. Whether you're interested in business, sports, or cultural performances, there's often something happening that can enrich your experience. TikTok

You may also like