Water Cube (水立方) Travel Guide
Nov 09, 2024
by orient china travel
General Introduction
The Water Cube, officially named the National Aquatics Center, is an outstanding landmark in Beijing. It was one of the main venues for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. With its unique and innovative design, it has attracted numerous visitors from all over the world.
Location and Access
- Location: It is situated in the Olympic Green in Beijing's Chaoyang District.
- Transportation: You can conveniently reach it by subway. Taking Line 8 and getting off at the Olympic Sports Center Station or the Water Cube Station will bring you close to the venue. Additionally, there are various bus routes passing by, providing easy access options.
Architectural Features
- Innovative Design: The Water Cube's exterior is composed of a unique ETFE (ethylene - tetrafluoroethylene) foil cushion structure, which gives it a bubble - like appearance. This design not only makes it look like a cube of water but also has excellent light - transmitting and energy - saving properties.
- Interior Design: Inside, the swimming pools and diving platforms are designed with high - precision technology to meet the strict requirements of international swimming and diving competitions. The overall layout and facilities create a comfortable and professional environment for aquatic sports.
What to See and Do
- Visit the Interior: Take a tour inside the Water Cube to see the Olympic - standard swimming pools, diving platforms, and other competition facilities. You can also learn about the history and construction details of the venue through the exhibition areas and multimedia displays.
- Water - related Activities: Some areas may offer water - related entertainment activities such as water slides and wave pools (depending on the specific operation arrangements). This provides a fun experience for both adults and children.
- Evening View: The Water Cube looks particularly stunning at night. The colorful lights illuminating the exterior bubbles create a dreamy and beautiful scene. It's a great opportunity for photography and enjoying the unique nightscape.
Tips for Tourists
- Ticket Information: Check the official website or local tourist information centers for ticket prices and purchase options. Different types of tickets may provide different access to areas within the venue.
- Time Consideration: Plan your visit time well. If you want to participate in water activities, check their opening hours. Also, avoid peak tourist times if possible to have a more comfortable experience.
- Dress Appropriately: If you plan to engage in water activities, bring swimsuits, towels, and other necessary items. For general visits, comfortable shoes are recommended as there is some walking involved.