China National Opera House

The China National Opera House is an opera house in Dongzhimen that houses multiple performance spaces including an opera hall, concert hall, and theater under a large domed structure. The varied spaces accommodate different scales and types of productions with distinct acoustical properties.

The institution was founded in 1942 and moved to Beijing in 1952, becoming the national opera company under government stewardship. This relocation marked its emergence as the country's leading opera institution.

The house presents both classical Chinese opera and international productions, blending traditional performance styles with contemporary interpretations for audiences. Visitors experience how different genres coexist within the same venue, reflecting the city's cultural dialogue.

The venue opens daily for visitors, with ticket sales available during extended hours on performance days and shorter hours on non-performance days. Plan time to explore the different halls and the architectural layout around the domed structure.

The house has staged remarkable productions at extraordinary venues, including performances in major sports stadiums and concerts at historic cultural sites. These special events demonstrate the institution's ability to transcend the boundaries of a traditional opera house.