8 things to do on Line 8

Image: ebeijing.gov.cn

Activities to try out along the most auspicious of subway lines

Olympic Park Observation Tower

Station South Gate of Forest Park

Begin your Line 8 odyssey with a trip up Beijing's fourth-tallest building – and one of its best vantage points. Its observation deck offers panoramic views of the city. Wait for a clear blue day to make the most of your ascent and take in fantastic views that stretch as far as the Forbidden City, CBD and the Western Hills. 167RMB

China Science and Technology Museum

Station Olympic Green

Following a comprehensive redesign, China's biggest and best science and technology museum reopened in 2009, boasting five floors filled with interactive exhibits. Built to resemble a wooden block puzzle, the museum shows off the scientific solutions that have shaped our world and beyond, celebrating and oversimplifying the discoveries of both Chinese and Western scientists for young minds. Exhibits have both Chinese and English descriptions. 49RMB

Walk on the roof of the Bird's Nest

Station Olympic Sports Center

It’s not every day you get to walk on top of one of the world’s most iconic stadiums. The latest attempt to keep the dust from settling on the legacy of the glorious games of 2008 might not go by the catchiest of names – Top Wonder of Bird’s Nest Air Corridor – but it does offer a unique opportunity to summit one of Beijing’s modern architectural marvels. There's over a kilometre of tracks covering half the stadium's roof and connecting a series of viewing platforms; on a clear day, the views towards the western mountains and back along the city's Central Axis are simply spectacular, though air pollution may limit your scope to the resplendent Fourth Ring Road. You'll also have an access-most-areas pass on the way up, which allows you to take a perch in all three tiers of the stadium and freely wander the often deserted hallways encircling it. 80RMB

Happy Magic Water Cube

Station Olympic Sports Center

It's been 10 years since American swimming titan and possible fish Michael Phelps swept up and brought home – you know it – eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics. So what legacy for the venue that hosted his amazing aquatic achievements? After a few idle years collecting dust, the Water Cube reopened in 2010 as a quirky water park complete with a wave pool, lazy river and a myriad of slides. Open until 10pm during the summer, we recommend heading after dark to see the Cube light up in all its colourful glory from the comfort of your rubber ring. 244RMB

Rendinghu Park

Station Andelibeijie

When it was given a facelift in 1995, this secluded Xicheng park took Rome's Villa d'Este gardens as its inspiration. It might not have the Unesco World Heritage status of its Italian counterpart, but the verdant patches that encircle its central lake, as well as the southern side's archways, statues and sculptures make it a unique alternative to your average Beijing park. 2RMB

Prince Gong's Mansion

Station Shichahai

This palatial residence and ornate gardens off Houhai were built in 1777 for Heshen, a Qing Dynasty official who turned out to be one of the most corrupt scoundrels in Chinese history. The mansion was later named after another resident, straight-shooter Prince Gong. It remains a fantastically well-preserved example of a courtyard home and a more relaxed alternative to the Forbidden City. 45RMB

Drum & Bell Towers

Station Shichahai

This time-telling two-piece straddles the city's historical Central Axis. Used by emperors past to announce the hour across the town, these partners in time are now viewing towers with delightful vistas over an expanse of hutong rooftops and north towards the Olympic Park. Head up the Drum Tower (or Gulou, as you might know it better) for percussion performances throughout the day. 22RMB

Penghao Theatre

Station Nanluoguxiang

The Chinese term penghao (蓬蒿) is often used to refer to everyday, common people, though this charming little theatre tucked well away in the depths of Dongmianhua Hutong is far from ordinary. The converted courtyard space seats around 90 people for intimate performances and also has a cosy café and library area, which is a pleasant spot for an after-show (or pre-show) drink. The theatre hosts various culture workshops and lectures and is also a venue for the Nanluoguxiang Performing Arts Festival. 78RMB

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