Beijing Water Cube: Olympic Crystal Palace
1. Architecture Inspired by Water Molecules
In Beijing Olympic Park, the National Aquatics Center—better known as the Water Cube—shines like a crystal palace. Its bubble-like walls, inspired by water molecules, make it one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing modern architecture.
The design team, a collaboration between Chinese and Australian architects, created a building that blends technology and cultural philosophy. Its square form echoes the “Bird’s Nest” stadium across the street, symbolizing harmony in Chinese tradition.
2. Bubble Walls That Breathe
The Water Cube looks like a giant cube, each side measuring 177 meters. Its outer walls are made of more than 3,000 inflated cushions, resembling ocean bubbles under sunlight.
Built with ETFE material, the walls are thin but extremely strong—light as paper yet capable of supporting a car. This eco-friendly design allows sunlight to filter in, keeping pools warm while saving up to 30% in energy.
3. Inside the Water Cube: More Than Sports
Step inside, and you’ll find multiple attractions beyond Olympic history.
- Olympic Pool Hall – The main arena with swimming and diving pools, where Michael Phelps won his record eight gold medals in 2008.
- Water Park – One of Asia’s top indoor water parks, with thrilling slides like “Deep Sea Tornado.” Open all year, always warm.
- Swimming Pools – Visitors can swim where Olympians once competed. A deep-water certificate is needed for certain areas.
- Ice Sports – Since 2022, it transforms into the “Ice Cube,” offering curling and skating lessons.
4. Day and Night: A Shifting Light Show
By day, sunlight glows through the bubble walls, making the interior bright and dreamlike. By night, the Water Cube turns into a colorful light show.
Its LED system changes from calm blue to fiery red, creating a dramatic “ice and fire” effect with the Bird’s Nest nearby. Don’t miss the Water Light Show, where giant projections recreate Olympic highlights with music and water screens.
5. Visitor Information
- Location: Olympic Park, No.11 Tianchen East Road, Beijing.
- Hours: Summer 9:00–22:00; Winter 9:00–19:00.
- Tickets: Visit ¥30, Swimming ¥50, Water Park ¥200 (subject to change).
- Transport: Subway Line 8/15 to Olympic Park Station, 10 min walk.
- Nearby: Bird’s Nest Stadium, Olympic Tower, Forest Park.
Whether you want to swim in an Olympic pool, enjoy a water park, or watch the lights at night, the Water Cube is a must-see attraction in Beijing.
