Beijing National Aquatics Centre, more commonly known as ‘The Water Cube’, is one of the famous constructions created for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing’s Olympic Park. It is a popular attractions for tourists who travel to Beijing and is easy to get to from all Beijing hotels. It cost over 10 billion yuan to build and was designed to host the swimming, diving and synchronized swimming events during which 25 world records were broken.
If you just want to take a look around, head there in the evening as the Water Cube is lit up a vibrant neon blue and takes some great photos. Nearby the Olympic Torch and Bird’s Nest Stadium are also very brightly lit and photogenic. You may also find yourselves the target of some photographic attention as it is a popular spot for out of towners who may not have seen many westerners before. This can range from shy attempts to photograph you to a request for you to pose in front of the landmark with their child or whole family!
The area is simple enough to get to via the Subway and the less often used Line 8 will take you right to the grounds. You can alight at either Olympic Park or Olympic Centre as they are either side. Be wary if you are there in the late evening that once the lights go off at 10pm, the last subway is usually just over 20 minutes after this. However if you do find that you’ve missed it then a taxi to the city centre will usually be around 40RMB (insist on the meter), although finding one may be difficult.
On August 8th, 2010, marking the two year anniversary of the Olympics, the Water Cube was reopened as a water park known as ‘Happy Magic’. Entry prices are steep for Beijing, costing 200RMB for adults and 160RMB for children, but it may be worth the fee to experience the largest water park in Asia, complete with 60 lifeguards! If you can’t justify the price tag, you can also pay 50RMB to just go for a swim in the Olympic pools.
The water park is open from 10am until 9.30pm and is a colourful wonderland complete with vibrant slides, plastic jellyfish and surreal decoration. Should you not have suitable swimming attire with you in China, the park has swimwear, towels, goggles and rafts all available for purchase. Lockers cost 100RMB to rent, although 80RMB is refunded when you return.
The park features a spa, wave pool and lazy river alongside thirteen water rides including the Speed Slide, Bullet Bowl and Tornado. A day trip here would be an interesting contrast to the city and a great way to cool down if you are visiting during the hot and humid summer. There is plenty to do for adults and children alike and you can finish off at one of the water themed restaurants in the cube itself.
If you find yourself strapped for time, the water cube is only a small detour from the city on the way to or from the airport, so why not stop by before or after catching your Beijing flight!
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