As Guangzhou's Tianhe Sports Center marks its 37th anniversary on August 30th, 2024, the sprawling complex stands as a testament to the city's remarkable transformation from a rural landscape into a thriving metropolis. In 1985, the area surrounding the future sports hub was a vast expanse of farmland and wilderness; today, it gleams brightly as a cornerstone of the CBD on Guangzhou's urban axis.
Guangzhou Tianhe Sports Center in 1987
The heart of Tianhe: A legacy of venues
Founded in 1987 to host the 6th National Games, Tianhe Sports Center consists of a stadium, an indoor arena, and a natatorium, setting a precedent as the first in China to be built simultaneously on such a grand scale.
The stadium, nestled at the center of the complex, boasts a saddle-shaped exterior and a second-floor open-air terrace infused with Lingnan architecture, harmoniously blending aesthetics, functionality, and design. Home to both a main and auxiliary football track field, it has undergone five major renovations, with the latest focused on preparations for the 15th National Games.
A marathon of memories
Tianhe Sports Center has been a pivotal witness to the growth of long-distance running in Guangzhou. From municipal marathons to 10,000-person races, 24-hour ultra-marathons, and mass walks, the venue has ignited passions and created enduring memories for countless runners. Since 2012, it has played a pivotal role in the development of the Guangzhou Marathon, helping to establish it as a prestigious double-gold event.
1990 Guangdong (Guangzhou) 10,000-person marathon.
The first China International 24-hour Track Race in 1994.
In 2019, China's first large-scale rubberized track surrounding a stadium was installed in Tianhe, attracting thousands of running clubs and individuals every day.
2023 Guangzhou Marathon
The "Red home court" of football passion
From 2011 to 2022, Tianhe Sports Center served as the proud home of Guangzhou Football Club, providing a world-class venue for matches and training. It became synonymous with the team's achievements, including eight Chinese Football Association Super League titles and two Asian Football Confederation Champions League triumphs. Recognized as one of Asia's top 16 stadiums, it has also hosted global giants like AC Milan, Liverpool, and Real Madrid.
Currently, the stadium supports Guangzhou Yingbao Football Club's integrated operations.
Tianhe Sports Center in 2019.
A stage for cultural extravaganzas
Since its inaugural concert featuring Roman Tam and Liza Wang in 1987, which drew a record-breaking 40,000 spectators, Tianhe Sports Center has become a must-visit destination for musicians and performers. Hong Kong stars like Andy Lau, Aaron Kwok, Leslie Cheung, Leon Lai, Alan Tam, Lam Chi-ching, Luo Dayou, Nicholas Tse, BEYOND, Jacky Cheung, Stefanie Sun, Faye Wong, TWINS, Zhou Bichang, G.E.M., JJ Lin, and Xue Zhixian have all graced its stage, contributing to over a hundred unforgettable concerts.
Roman Tam and Liza Wang concert in 1987.
Aaron Kwok concert in 2024.
A renewed vision for the future
With frisbee being included in the 2022 national curriculum, the sport has soared in popularity. The main and auxiliary fields at Tianhe Sports Center have hosted professional frisbee tournaments, including the conclusion of the second China Frisbee League's Guangzhou leg (Southern China Division).
As renovations for the 15th National Games progress, Tianhe Sports Center prepares to shine anew. It will serve as the venue for the opening ceremonies and host women's football matches.
The 2nd China Frisbee League's Guangzhou leg (Southern China Division).
Author | Alice
Photo | Guangzhou Tianhe Fabu
Editor | Monica, James
