Visiting Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 国家游泳中心 (Guójiā Yóuyǒng Zhōngxīn) |
| Location and Address | 11 Tianchen East Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily |
| Entrance Fee | Adults: 30 CNY; Children (under 1.2m): 15 CNY |
| How to Get There | By Metro: Take Line 8 to Olympic Green Station, Exit B By Bus: Take bus lines 82, 538, or 638 to Olympic Park Station By Taxi: Ask to be taken to “Water Cube” (水立方) in Olympic Park |
| Best Time for Visit | Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds |
| Contact Info | Phone: +86 10 8437 0909 Email: [email protected] |
Overview
The Beijing National Aquatics Center, also known as the Water Cube, is a world-renowned aquatics center in Beijing, China. Built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, it hosted the swimming, diving, and synchronized swimming events. Its unique design and advanced technology make it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Beijing’s Olympic Park.
Historical Background
The Beijing National Aquatics Center was designed and constructed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Construction began in December 2003 and was completed in January 2008. After the Olympics, it was partially reconstructed to turn half of its interior into a water park. In 2022, it once again served as a venue for the Winter Olympics, hosting the curling events.
Architectural Features
- Bubble Design: The building’s exterior is designed to resemble water bubbles, created using a structure known as the Weaire–Phelan structure. This design not only gives the building its iconic appearance but also allows for maximum natural light penetration.
- ETFE Material: The outer wall is made of ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) pillows, which are both lighter and more insulating than traditional glass. This material allows the building to harness solar energy to heat the pools and the interior.
- Size and Capacity: The Water Cube covers an area of 65,000 square meters and can seat up to 17,000 spectators. It houses five swimming pools, including a 50-meter competition pool and a 25-meter training pool.
- Water Park: After the 2008 Olympics, part of the center was converted into a public water park, featuring numerous water rides and attractions, making it a popular recreational destination.
Cultural Importance
The Beijing National Aquatics Center holds significant cultural importance in China. It symbolizes China’s technological advancement and architectural innovation on the global stage. The building’s design, inspired by Chinese traditional values and soap bubbles, represents harmony between nature and human engineering. As a key venue for two Olympic Games, it embodies China’s growing influence in international sports and its ability to host world-class events.
Surrounding Attractions
- Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest): Located adjacent to the Water Cube, the Bird’s Nest is another iconic structure from the 2008 Olympics. Its unique design and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction in the Olympic Park.
- Olympic Green: This vast area surrounding the Water Cube includes various Olympic venues, parks, and lakes. It’s an excellent place for a leisurely walk and to experience the legacy of the Beijing Olympics.
- China Science and Technology Museum: Situated nearby, this museum offers interactive exhibits on science and technology, providing an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
- Olympic Forest Park: A large public park north of the Olympic Green, it offers a natural retreat with lakes, walking trails, and scenic spots, perfect for relaxation after visiting the Water Cube.
Photography Opportunities
- Exterior Shots: The Water Cube’s unique bubble-like exterior provides excellent opportunities for architectural photography, especially during different times of the day as light interacts with the ETFE surface.
- Night Photography: At night, the building is illuminated with colorful LED lights, creating a spectacular display that’s perfect for dramatic nighttime shots.
- Interior Pool Area: The spacious interior with its Olympic-sized pools offers opportunities for wide-angle shots that capture the scale and design of the facility.
- Water Park Activities: The water park inside provides dynamic photo opportunities of visitors enjoying the slides and attractions, capturing the fun and energy of the venue.
Modern Importance
- Sports Venue: The Beijing National Aquatics Center continues to serve as a world-class venue for national and international aquatics competitions, maintaining its relevance in the global sports arena.
- Public Recreation: With its transformation into a water park, the center has become a popular recreational destination for locals and tourists alike, offering year-round aquatic entertainment.
- Architectural Landmark: The Water Cube remains an important architectural landmark, showcasing innovative design and sustainable building practices. It continues to inspire architects and engineers worldwide.
- Olympic Legacy: As a key venue for both the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2022 Winter Olympics, the center plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the Olympic legacy in Beijing, contributing to the city’s status as a global sports capital.
FAQ
- What is Beijing National Aquatics Center famous for?
Beijing National Aquatics Center is famous for its unique bubble-like design, hosting swimming events during the 2008 Summer Olympics, and its transformation into a public water park. - What’s inside Beijing National Aquatics Center?
Inside Beijing National Aquatics Center, you’ll find Olympic-standard swimming pools, a water park with various slides and attractions, and exhibition areas showcasing its Olympic history. - Is Beijing National Aquatics Center free?
No, Beijing National Aquatics Center is not free. There is an entrance fee for visitors, with separate pricing for adults and children. - Is Beijing National Aquatics Center worth visiting?
Yes, Beijing National Aquatics Center is worth visiting for its unique architecture, Olympic history, and recreational facilities, especially if you’re interested in sports or modern architecture. - What to do in Beijing National Aquatics Center?
In Beijing National Aquatics Center, you can enjoy the water park, view the Olympic pools, learn about its history through exhibitions, and admire the innovative architecture. - How do I get to Beijing National Aquatics Center in the local city?
In Beijing, you can reach Beijing National Aquatics Center by taking Metro Line 8 to Olympic Green Station, or by bus lines 82, 538, or 638 to Olympic Park Station. - How to visit Beijing National Aquatics Center?
To visit Beijing National Aquatics Center, purchase tickets at the entrance or online in advance. It’s open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. For the best experience, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and bring swimwear if you plan to use the water park facilities.
