Ultimate Photography Guide to Bird’s Nest and Water Cube

Ultimate Photography Guide To The Bird's Nest And Water Cube

The Bird’s Nest and Water Cube are two of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, making them must-visit sites for anyone looking to capture stunning photographs. Located within the Olympic Park, these venues not only showcase impressive architecture but also offer a variety of angles for perfect shots. Here’s your comprehensive guide to photographing these attractions.

Transportation: Take Line 8 of the subway to the Olympic Sports Center Station, exiting at B2 for the closest access to the Bird’s Nest.

Suggested Route: Subway Station ➡️ Bird’s Nest ➡️ Water Cube ➡️ Olympic Tower

Admission Fees:

  • Bird’s Nest: ¥100
  • Water Cube: ¥30
  • These fees apply only if you wish to enter the venues. If you prefer to enjoy the exterior and take photos along the scenic avenue, you don’t need to purchase tickets.

Lighting Times:

For optimal photography, be aware of the lighting schedules:

  • Summer & Autumn: Lights usually turn on around 6:30 PM and turn off by 10:00 PM.
  • Winter & Spring: Lights typically come on between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM, also shutting off at 10:00 PM.

For the best shots, consider visiting the Great Wall in the morning, then arriving at the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube around 6:00 or 7:00 PM. This timing allows you to capture both daytime scenes and the spectacular night illuminations.

Photography Spots at the Bird’s Nest:

  1. Directly in Front of the Bird’s Nest: A classic close-up angle.
  2. Reflection Pool at the Back: Capture the stunning reflection of the Bird’s Nest in the water for a mid-range shot.
  3. Datu Road Bridge: For a panoramic view of the Bird’s Nest.

Photography Spots at the Water Cube:

  1. Entrance at Gate 5: Offers a side view of the Water Cube, perfect for group photos.
  2. Path Between the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube: This area provides a great full-view shot of both structures.

Nearby Night Markets and Food Options:

  • Shuang’ao Food Street (双奥美食街): Focuses mainly on local snacks.
  • Linglong Summer Night Market (玲珑之夏夜市): Offers a variety of accessories.
  • Tianhong New Olympic Shopping Center (天虹新奥购物中心): A great spot for shopping and dining.
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