Complete Guide to Studio City Macau’s Figure-Eight Ferris Wheel
Introduction:
As the last light of day gilds Cotai’s glass facades, a giant rotating “8” slowly turns outside Studio City Macau — not a sci‑fi set but the magical reality of the Yinghui Star, the world’s first figure‑8 Ferris wheel. Suspended 130 meters above ground, this steel wonder fuses Hollywood imagination, engineering audacity, and Macau’s neon glamour. A 15‑minute aerial ride sweeps you from busy hotel boulevards to the tranquil Hengqin wetlands and finally into a galaxy woven from millions of LED lights.
1. A Mind‑Bending Engineering Marvel
The Yinghui Star rewrites Ferris wheel mechanics with a groundbreaking lateral‑motion design. Two diamond‑shaped steel frames interlace to form the figure‑8 track, inspired by the endless loop of the Penrose stairs in the film Inception. Seventeen space‑capsule cabins float along the track, each fitted with floor‑to‑ceiling panoramic windows and dynamic lighting. At night the structure becomes a 40‑meter‑diameter light art installation. Notably, when a cabin passes the figure‑8 crossover point riders may feel a fleeting sensation of weightlessness — a deliberate, cinematic thrill that nods to Hollywood special effects.
2. A Day‑to‑Night Visual Feast
Seasoned visitors recommend boarding at dusk (around 17:30–18:30). West‑facing cabins capture Cotai’s sea sunset toward Coloane, while east‑facing cabins watch the hotel skyline ignite. From the wheel you’ll spot The Venetian Macao’s canal dome, The Parisian Macao’s half‑scale Eiffel replica, the lotus‑shaped Hengqin Port bridge, and the daring bungee jump at Macau Tower. After 19:00 the wheel launches the “Star Dream Voyage” light show, cycling through 12 dynamic scenes — meteor showers, galactic swirls, and more. The best viewing spot for the nightly spectacle is the lawn opposite The Parisian Macao.
3. Immersive Themed Cabins
Each cabin is its own cinematic world: the “Interstellar” cabin is wrapped in breathing nebula projections; a “Steampunk” cabin features vintage brass telescopes; and a limited‑edition “007” cabin recreates high‑altitude Bond sequences. Cabins are climate‑controlled to 25°C and equipped with Bluetooth speakers so visitors can play their personal soundtrack. Proposal cabins require a 72‑hour advance reservation; staff can arrange rose petals and champagne — a dramatic romantic option witnessed by Macau Tower’s bungee jumpers.
4. Nearby Entertainment and Package Tips
Studio City Macau itself is an entertainment complex:
– The Ferris wheel’s base (third floor) houses the Warner Fun Kids Park, ideal for families.
– The hotel’s west wing stages a one‑of‑a‑kind water magic show at the Magic Theatre.
– The food court features Macau’s first Michelin Green Star vegetarian restaurant.
Consider buying the “Studio City Play Pass” (around MOP 280) which bundles the Ferris wheel, the magic show, and the Batman 4D flight experience. The wheel is a 10‑minute walk from Cotai West Light Rail station; from there you can reach Rua do Cunha to sample local desserts such as sawdust pudding.
5. Practical Info & Local Tips
– Hidden photo spot: the executive lounge terrace on the hotel’s East Wing 33rd floor (access with purchase) frames the wheel and Macau Tower together.
– Crowd advice: weekends 19:00–21:00 are peak times; consider midday rides or rainy days (cabin glass can be clearer during rain).
– Payment: Visa, Mastercard, and Alipay are accepted; cash ticket windows often have shorter lines.
– Safety: Operations may pause in high winds — check the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau of Macau before you go.
Conclusion:
Where UNESCO‑listed traditions meet futuristic architecture, the Yinghui Star figure‑8 Ferris wheel embodies Macau’s hybrid identity. It’s an engineering triumph and a 24‑hour airborne theater. Whether you’re a thrill‑seeking couple, a mechanical‑design enthusiast, or a photographer chasing a unique vantage, this infinity‑shaped icon hovering above the casino skyline will be one of your most surreal Macau memories.
(Note: Ticket prices and operating hours are subject to change; please consult Studio City Macau’s official website for the latest updates.)
