If you are an international traveler and have not visited Singapore, it is time you added it to your itinerary. And this is not only to see the famous tourist attractions of this magnificent city but also to experience its one-of-its-kind Jewel Changi Airport terminal. This is an architectural marvel, which is an amalgamation of nature’s beauty with modern architecture.
Jewel Changi Airport architecture is the brainchild of globally acclaimed architect, Moshe Safdie and a consortium of architects and collaborators. Built at the cost of SG$1.7 billion, it is more than just a place for transit and stopover for travelers. It has been turned into a must-see tourist attraction and an inspiring lifestyle destination.
Sprawling over an area of 1,442,364 square feet (134,000 square meters), Jewel acts as a connector between the existing terminals. It is linked to the Arrival Hall of Terminal 1 and via a pedestrian walkway from Terminals 2 and 3 and hosts a multitude of establishments. This dome-shaped complex is made of glass and steel and is turned into an urban oasis with human ingenuity.
Jewel Changi Airport offers a number of attractions to visitors. Let’s see what they are:
The Rain Vortex
Rain Vortex is the world’s largest and tallest indoor waterfall, located at the apex of the glass roof. Almost 10,000 gallons (3,800 liters) of recirculated rainwater is made to cascade down 130 feet (40 meters) per minute in the form of a waterfall into a pool at the basement level. At night, the waterfall turns into a 360-degree stage for a light-and-sound show.
Shiseido Forest Valley
The complex’s Shiseido Forest Valley is one of Asia’s largest indoor gardens, spread over 23,680 square feet (22,000 square meters), it houses 2,000 trees and 60,000 shrubs. The rooftop park, covering an area of 46,000 square feet (14,000 square meters), offers gardens, walking trails and play attractions.
The Canopy Park
At the apex of the 10-story building is the Canopy Park that includes two gardens – Topiary Walk and Petal Garden – and a 164-feet-long (50-meter-long) suspension bridge, called the Canopy Bridge. Located 82 feet (25 meters) above the ground, it offers a panoramic view of the Rain Vortex. The visitors have to buy the Jewel Changi ticket to enter the Canopy Park.
Other attractions in the Canopy Park include:
● Canopy Mazes: It has two mazes – the 6-feet-high (1.8-meter-high) Hedge Maze and the Mirror Maze.
● Sky Nets: It has an 820-feet-long (250-meter-long) and 26-feet-high (8-meter-high) Bouncing Net and a 164-feet-high (50-meter-long) Walking Net that hangs 82 feet (25 meters) from Jewel’s Level 1.
● Discovery Slides: The four integrated slides include two tube slides that afford a view of the Forest Valley and Rain Vortex.
● Foggy Bowls: This innovative entertainment hub consists of 4 conclave bowls with pumped in the mist that creates the illusion of playing in the clouds.
Shops and restaurants
Jewel Changi Airport shops is a shoppers’ paradise since it has almost all world-famous brands. These include Nike’s largest retail space in Southeast Asia and local shops selling ceramics and souvenirs inspired by the Singaporean culture. All the shops are located in the lush green environment of the Forest Valley that makes shopping a memorable experience.
For the foodies and connoisseur of fine dining, Changi Airport offers a range of cuisines that include both local and global fares. It’s over 80 food and beverage outlets include popular international chains and many others. The local Singaporean cuisine is also available, including the local Tiger Beer.
If you are wondering about Jewel Changi Airport opening hours, it is open 24 hours is an international airport. This nature-themed airport has received many awards.
