Haidian Church: A Modern Ark of Faith

Nestled in Beijing’s bustling Zhongguancun, Haidian Church stands out with 193 white pillars, forming a striking modern ark. This church combines faith, architecture, and modern design, creating a serene sanctuary in the city’s high-tech heart. Visitors and worshippers alike experience hope and devotion in a space inspired by both religion and culture.

1. History: A Century of Faith

Haidian Church traces its roots back to the early 1900s, when Pastor Ren Zirong of the Christian Presbyterian Mission restarted evangelism in Haidian.

• June 1933: The church’s first major hall was built at Xieshui Lake No.10, hosting around 500 congregants.
• 1954: Haidian Church joined the Chinese Christian Three-Self Patriotic Movement.
• May 12, 1985: Haidian Church officially reopened.
• May 30, 2007: The church moved to its current modern building in Zhongguancun West District.

As part of the Chinese Christian Three-Self Patriotic Church, Haidian Church is led by Pastor Wu Weiqing, supported by 15 pastors and 12 full-time staff. It won the “First National Award for Harmonious Religious Sites” in 2010.

2. Architecture: A Modern Noah’s Ark

Haidian Church breaks traditional designs with modern architecture:

• 193 White Pillars: Symbolize unity and form the main ark-like structure.
• Open Bible Design: The exterior resembles an open Bible, welcoming God’s word.
• 48-meter Bell Tower: Three European swinging bronze bells ring on major Christian holidays and Sundays, echoing across Zhongguancun.

The church blends local culture with its bookshelf-style layout, referencing the nearby Haidian Book City.

3. Interior: Light, Space, and Sacred Calm

The church’s 4,000 m² interior offers a peaceful retreat:

• Main Hall: Seats nearly 7,000 for Sunday services.
• Secondary Hall: Accessible when the main hall is closed for visitors.
• Bell Tower: Houses three swinging European bells at 48 meters high.

Sunlight streams through gaps, creating a solemn yet elegant atmosphere. Every corner conveys sacredness, combining modern design with spiritual presence.

4. Activities: A Vibrant Faith Community

Haidian Church hosts diverse events:

• Sunday Services: Six sessions daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Weekday Gatherings: Bible study, testimony sharing, and elderly fellowship Tuesday–Saturday mornings.
• University Fellowship: Thursday evenings for students.
• Festivals: Easter, Christmas, and other celebrations attract large crowds.

5. Art & Symbolism

Haidian Church is an iconic modern religious building, merging faith symbols with contemporary architecture. By night, the white pillars glow softly, creating a mesmerizing silhouette in Zhongguancun.

6. Visiting Guide

🎫 Tickets: Free entry, no advance booking required.
⏰ Recommended Visit Time: 20–30 minutes. Sundays are liveliest.
📍 Location: No. 9 Caihef Fang, Zhongguancun, Haidian District, Beijing.
Nearby: Surrounded by Beijing University, Tsinghua University, and Zhongguancun Tech Zone.

🙏 Visitor Etiquette: Dress modestly, keep quiet, and ask permission before taking photos. Avoid flash during worship.

💡 Tips:

• Ask front desk staff for guidance if the main hall is closed.
• Visit on Sundays or during Christmas for a full experience.
• Sunset highlights the 48-meter bell tower, with the bronze bells ringing warmly for visitors and worshippers.

Whether you are a devout believer or an architecture enthusiast, Haidian Church offers a peaceful spiritual retreat in Beijing’s tech hub.