The 798 Art Zone, also known as Dashanzi Art District, is a unique cultural landmark in Beijing, China. Located in the northeast corner of the city, it houses a thriving community of artists, galleries, art studios, cultural institutions, and boutique shops.
The 798 Art Zone’s intriguing name comes from the old state-owned electronics factory that used to occupy the area – Factory 798. In the 1990s, as the factory became obsolete, artists and cultural institutions began to move in, attracted by the site’s Bauhaus-style architecture and its ample, light-filled spaces. Over the years, the 798 Art Zone has grown organically into one of Asia’s most significant centers for contemporary art.
The art shown in the 798 Art Zone is incredibly diverse, reflecting the breadth and depth of contemporary Chinese and international art. The district’s numerous galleries showcase a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, video art, performance art, and installation.
Prominent institutions within the 798 Art Zone include Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (UCCA), one of China’s leading contemporary art institutions, and Pace Beijing, the Beijing outpost of the famous New York gallery. These institutions have held exhibitions featuring works by acclaimed international artists and Chinese artists, fostering dialogue and exchange between Chinese and global contemporary art.
In addition to the galleries, the 798 Art Zone also contains artist studios where you can see artists at work and often purchase art directly. There are also several high-quality art bookshops and spaces that host artistic performances and cultural events.
Furthermore, the 798 Art Zone is home to the 798 Art Festival, an annual event held every autumn. The festival showcases a broad array of artwork and includes performances, workshops, and forums.
The area also has an array of chic cafes, trendy restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a vibrant cultural and lifestyle destination.
How to get there:
International travelers can fly into Beijing Capital International Airport, China’s busiest and most important international airport.
By Air: Beijing Capital International Airport is connected to many cities around the world. From the airport, the 798 Art Zone can be reached by taxi or airport shuttle bus. The ride from the airport to the 798 Art Zone is about 30 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.
By Subway: Beijing has an extensive and efficient subway system. To reach the 798 Art Zone, take Subway Line 14 and get off at Wangjing South Station. From there, you can take a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk to the 798 Art Zone.
By Bus: Several public bus lines also serve the 798 Art Zone, including lines 401, 402, 405, 445, 909, and 973.
The 798 Art Zone offers a fascinating insight into China’s vibrant contemporary art scene. Its unique blend of industrial architecture, cutting-edge art, and trendy lifestyle amenities make it a must-visit for any art lover visiting Beijing. Whether you’re a serious art collector or a casual visitor, you’re sure to find something that intrigues and inspires you in the 798 Art Zone.
