Visitors allowed at Beijing's Olympic Park around the clock

Beijing's Olympic Park will function around the clock, becoming an always-open public space in the heart of the capital.

The fences were removed, visiting hours eliminated and checkpoints dismantled to create a more accessible green space, according to local officials.

The changes are part of a broader effort to integrate the park seamlessly with surrounding neighborhoods, easing access for residents and enhancing visitor experience.

The removal of six security checkpoints and over 10,000 meters of fencing are key steps in the overhaul, Lu Wenyu, deputy director of the Beijing Olympic central area management committee, said in a recent statement.

The park will now have 24-hour access, and bicycles are also permitted to enter.

"This transformation aims to create a borderless, always-open park in the heart of the capital, offering residents open and shared spaces," Lu said.

The new design provides direct access from nearby roads, eliminating the need for detours and making it easier for families and others carrying belongings.

"It was inconvenient to navigate the park with children before, especially with the need to go around to checkpoints," said Lu Xiufang, a local resident. "Now, it's much more accessible."

Visitors on social media have praised the updates, with some noting a brighter, more open environment that lifts the mood.

The changes will enable visitors to better enjoy the 11.59-square-kilometer park, known as the world's first "dual Olympic park" following Beijing's hosting of both the 2008 Summer and 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

The site hosts various sports events, along with science, education and cultural programs.

Cycling is a focal point of the redesign, with a newly added 7.5-kilometer "rainbow" cycling route connecting visitors to prominent landmarks, including the National Stadium and the National Aquatics Center.

"We're aiming to provide open, accessible cycling paths that emphasize safety and enjoyment," Lu said, adding that additional routes are planned.

Improved road connections are also underway, with Hujing East Road and Tianchen West Road set to link directly to the city's Fourth Ring Road, enhancing convenience for drivers.

The initiative aligns with Beijing's "Garden City" guidelines released in April, which outline long-term goals for green space integration through 2035. Key elements include promoting open and shared green spaces and encouraging the removal of barriers between parks and urban areas.