The Ultimate 798 Art District Adventure: Unveil Mind-Blowing Art Galleries You Need to See

The 798 Art District (798艺术区) is one of the most celebrated cultural landmarks in Beijing. Located in the northeastern part of the city, between the city center and Beijing Capital International Airport, this vibrant hub of contemporary art blends China’s industrial history with its creative scene. Discover this unique location where the past and present intersect through stunning galleries, art studios, design cafes, and alternative shops.

The History of 798 Art District

Originally, the 798 District was an industrial complex that housed an electrical component factory, built in the 1950s by East German architects. Over the years, the site has been transformed into a bustling arts hub, standing as a prime example of the fusion of historical industrial spaces with modern creativity. Despite its commercialization, 798 remains one of the best places to find authentic Chinese contemporary art.

The district has now expanded to include Plaza 751, an adjacent industrial area that focuses more on fashion design and commercial spaces. As a result, the area has experienced significant growth, offering a wide range of cultural and artistic experiences.

Things to See and Do in 798 Art District

Art Galleries and Contemporary Exhibitions

One of the main attractions of the 798 Art District is its collection of art galleries. From cutting-edge exhibitions to more traditional art spaces, there is something for everyone. Some notable galleries include:

UCCA Ullens Center for Contemporary Art 尤伦斯当代艺术中心: A leader in showcasing Chinese contemporary art globally, with a collection of over 1,500 works. The center has become one of China’s first private museums dedicated to contemporary art.

Galleria Continua 常青画廊: This renowned Italian gallery offers a platform for both Chinese and international artists, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore contemporary works in a global context.

Urs Meile Gallery 麦勒画廊: A Swiss gallery hosting a range of mediums, including photography, sculpture, and video art. The gallery features works by prominent Chinese artists such as Ai Weiwei and Xie Nanxing.

Red Gate Gallery 红门画廊: One of Beijing’s oldest and most respected galleries, focusing on the promotion and exhibition of emerging Chinese artists. Red Gate moved to 798 after decades of success in its original location.

Spurs Gallery 马刺画廊: Known for representing avant-garde Chinese artists, including those from the underground art movements that emerged after the Cultural Revolution. The gallery hosts exhibitions that often bridge Eastern and Western art traditions.

Platform China 站台中国: A multidisciplinary art space that combines galleries, artist residencies, and multimedia studios. It focuses on exploring diverse art forms, from installations to interactive art.

Tang Contemporary Art 当代唐人艺术中心: This influential gallery, with locations in Beijing, Bangkok, and Hong Kong, has been a leader in promoting Chinese contemporary art. It offers exhibitions in two spaces within 798.

Tabula Rasa Gallery 三米画廊: Located in both 798 and Hoxton, London, this gallery is dedicated to promoting both Chinese and international contemporary artists through exhibitions, talks, and publications.

These galleries are some of the best places to experience cutting-edge art in Beijing. Many of them offer rotating exhibitions, allowing visitors to continually discover fresh perspectives on Chinese and global contemporary art.

Unique Spaces and Cultural Experiences

Beyond the galleries, the 798 Art District offers several quirky spots that showcase Beijing’s creative spirit. Here are a few highlights:

Vintage Motorcycle Store: Located in Plaza 751, this design-focused shop is a haven for motorcycle enthusiasts and design lovers alike.
Train Cafes and Bars: In the Locomotive Plaza, step into vintage train cars that have been converted into cozy cafes and bars, offering a truly unique atmosphere.
Fashion Boutiques: Explore alternative fashion shops that feature avant-garde styles and independent designers.

For those interested in a more alternative and sophisticated artistic vibe, these spaces are perfect for a leisurely stroll and an afternoon of discovery.

Artistic Programs and Educational Initiatives

In addition to its galleries, 798 Art District is home to several institutions offering cultural programs and educational initiatives. The UCCA hosts workshops, seminars, and special programs designed to engage the public with contemporary art. Additionally, many galleries offer talks, research, and publications to deepen your understanding of the art scene.

How to Get to 798 Art District

The 798 Art District is easily accessible via Beijing’s public transportation system. The Wangjingnan (望京南) station on Line 14 is the closest subway station, with convenient bus routes also serving the area, including routes 403, 418, and 593.

Plan Your Visit to 798 Art District

Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to explore one of Beijing’s most vibrant districts, 798 offers a wealth of experiences. Don’t forget to check the websites of galleries and cultural centers for updated schedules, as some require tickets for entry.

Opening hours for most galleries are typically from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with Mondays usually being closed. Be sure to explore the district’s ever-evolving art scene and immerse yourself in Beijing’s rich contemporary culture.