National Aquatics Center (Water Cube) Beijing
Beijing's iconic 'Water Cube' now a thrilling water park, blending Olympic legacy with aquatic fun in a stunning architectural marvel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more slide time!
National Aquatics Center (Water Cube) Beijing
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more slide time!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Beijing's iconic 'Water Cube' now a thrilling water park, blending Olympic legacy with aquatic fun in a stunning architectural marvel.
"It's a splashy good time in a bubble-shaped wonder!"
🎟️ Tickets are easy to get
No need to stress about booking ahead; tickets for the water park are usually available on arrival. :ticket:
🌊 It's a water park!
The 'Water Cube' is now primarily the 'Happy Magic Water Cube Water Park' with slides and wave pools. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Happy Magic Water Cube Water Park
Experience thrilling slides and wave pools in this uniquely designed aquatic wonderland. A splashy good time awaits!
Olympic Legacy Architecture
Marvel at the stunning, bubble-like exterior of the National Aquatics Center, a symbol of Beijing's Olympic past.
Artistic Swimming Performances
Catch breathtaking artistic swimming routines, showcasing incredible athleticism and synchronized grace.
Planning Your Visit
Water Cube: Water Park or Olympic Venue?
Tickets & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Tickets are easy to get
No need to stress about booking ahead; tickets for the water park are usually available on arrival. :ticket:
🌊 It's a water park!
The 'Water Cube' is now primarily the 'Happy Magic Water Cube Water Park' with slides and wave pools. :ocean:
🏊♂️ Regular pools too
Beyond the water park, you can also find regular swimming pools for laps or training. :swimmer:
📸 Iconic exterior
Don't forget to admire and photograph the unique bubble-like architecture from the outside! :camera:
Beijing - Water Cube - is it still a water park?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Tickets are easy to get
No need to stress about booking ahead; tickets for the water park are usually available on arrival. :ticket:
🌊 It's a water park!
The 'Water Cube' is now primarily the 'Happy Magic Water Cube Water Park' with slides and wave pools. :ocean:
🏊♂️ Regular pools too
Beyond the water park, you can also find regular swimming pools for laps or training. :swimmer:
📸 Iconic exterior
Don't forget to admire and photograph the unique bubble-like architecture from the outside! :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Water Cube for its transformation into a fun-filled water park with thrilling slides and wave pools, all set within an architecturally stunning former Olympic venue. While some express nostalgia for its Olympic past, the aquatic attractions are a hit with families and those seeking a refreshing day out. Occasional overcrowding during peak times can be a minor drawback.
"The Water Cube or the National Aquatics Centre is a swimming centre in Beijing and is another engineering marvel. It was constructed to host the aquatics competitions at the 2008 Summer Olympics and was later used for 2022 Winter Olympics. Due to its design, it is an energy efficient building and has a capacity of 17,000.
Here again as Senior Citizens, we were allowed to enter free and we are very thankful for showing us your respect.
A must visit spot in Beijing."
Rajeshwar Dayal Mathur
"Tourist tip: better to visit at night, you can enjoy the lighting of the stadium. Take the metro line 8 and get off at Olympic Park, from there you can walk towards the Olympics Sport Center metro station. The bird nest and the water cube are in your way.. There's no need for a ticket to wander around the park, but for entering it (you can buy it there). In front of the water cube there are some food stalls."
Alvaro Lau
"Strolled by at night but didn't go in. As a travel photographer, I wanted to take photos of it lighted up but there were too many pop up stalls next to it and half was cordoned off. Had a hard time getting a didi taxi from there"
Andrew Cheong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Water Cube is conveniently located in the Olympic Green. You can easily reach it via the Beijing Subway system. Take Line 8 to the Olympic Green station, and it's a short walk from there. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, public transport is very accessible. The Olympic Green station on Subway Line 8 is the closest, making it straightforward to get to from most parts of the city.
Taking the subway is often the most efficient and cost-effective method. Line 8 will get you directly to the Olympic Green area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For the water park, it's generally not necessary to buy tickets in advance. Unlike some other major attractions, you can usually purchase them upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official website or a reliable booking platform closer to your visit. Generally, it's open daily during the day.
Ticket prices can fluctuate, but expect them to be reasonable for a full day of water park fun. It's advisable to check current pricing online before your visit.
The National Aquatics Center, or 'Water Cube', has been transformed into the 'Happy Magic Water Cube Water Park'. While it retains its iconic Olympic architecture, its primary function now is as a public water park with slides and pools.,
🎫 🏊♂️ Onsite Experience
The water park features a variety of thrilling water slides, wave pools, and other aquatic attractions suitable for families and thrill-seekers.
Absolutely! The Happy Magic Water Cube Water Park is designed to be family-friendly, with attractions catering to various age groups and swimming abilities.
Yes, in addition to the water park attractions, the Water Cube also has regular swimming pools available for those who wish to swim laps or train.
You'll need to wear appropriate swimwear. Many visitors also bring towels and waterproof bags for their belongings.
While the water park is the main attraction, the venue has hosted artistic swimming events, showcasing impressive performances. Keep an eye on local schedules for any current shows.,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can relax knowing that the venue is designed with safety and fun in mind. It's advisable to bring extra towels and swimwear, and consider arriving early on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds and maximize playtime. The combination of exciting rides and the iconic setting makes for an unforgettable family adventure.
💧 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and water bottles (if allowed) to further reduce expenses. Utilizing Beijing's efficient public transport system, like the subway, is also a cost-effective way to reach the Water Cube, making it an accessible and enjoyable option for those watching their spending.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation: From Olympic Icon to Aquatic Fun
Visitors can expect a range of thrilling water slides, wave pools, and other water-based activities. The park is designed to be a fun-filled destination for families and individuals seeking to cool off and enjoy a day of aquatic adventures. The unique architectural design of the Water Cube provides a stunning backdrop to the water park's lively atmosphere, making it a memorable visit.
While the water park is the main draw, the venue also retains some of its original sporting facilities. This means that alongside the slides and wave pools, there are often opportunities for traditional swimming, making it a versatile destination for various aquatic interests. The blend of its Olympic heritage and its current recreational use makes the Water Cube a truly unique attraction in Beijing.,
Architectural Significance and Visual Appeal
During the day, the ETFE cushions give the building a translucent, glowing appearance, while at night, it can be illuminated with vibrant colors, transforming it into a dazzling spectacle. This iconic structure is a testament to cutting-edge architectural design and remains a significant landmark in Beijing's Olympic Green.
For photographers and architecture enthusiasts, the Water Cube offers numerous opportunities for stunning shots. The interplay of light and shadow on its bubble-like surfaces, especially during sunrise or sunset, creates dramatic visual effects. Its distinctive shape and the surrounding Olympic Park provide a picturesque setting for memorable photographs.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit