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How does the rain vortex work?

The Rain Vortex, sponsored as the HSBC Rain Vortex, is the world's largest and tallest indoor waterfall, standing at 40 metres (130 ft) high. Recirculating rain water is pumped to the roof to free fall through a round hole at up to 37,850 liters (8,330 imp gal; 10,000 U.S. gal) per minute to a basement-level pool.



The HSBC Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, standing at 40 meters. It operates as a sophisticated closed-loop system designed for both aesthetic beauty and environmental sustainability. Rainwater is collected from the building’s massive toroidal (donut-shaped) roof and channeled toward the center. As the water pours through the oculus, it creates a natural cooling effect for the forest valley below. To maintain the flow during dry spells, the system recirculates a massive volume of water using powerful pumps hidden in the basement levels. At night, the waterfall serves as a canvas for a high-tech light and sound show, where 360-degree projections are mapped onto the falling water. The "vortex" effect is controlled by the shape of the glass funnel, which ensures the water falls in a neat, controlled column rather than a chaotic splash, eventually disappearing into a large acrylic basin that filters the water before it is pumped back to the top for the next cycle.

The Rain Vortex is a stunning architectural and engineering feature located at Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore. It is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, standing at 40 meters (131 feet) high. Here’s how it works:

1. Water Collection and Recycling

  • Rainwater is collected from the glass-and-steel dome of Jewel Changi Airport.
  • The water is then filtered and treated before being recirculated to create the Rain Vortex.

2. Pumping System

  • A powerful pumping system pushes the water to the top of the vortex structure.
  • The water is released from a circular opening at the top, creating a seamless waterfall effect.

3. Gravity and Design

  • The water cascades down through the center of the building, guided by gravity and the aerodynamic design of the vortex structure.
  • The shape of the vortex ensures the water flows smoothly and creates a visually mesmerizing effect.

4. Lighting and Effects

  • The Rain Vortex is enhanced by LED lighting, which creates stunning visual displays, especially at night.
  • The lights can change colors and patterns, adding to the spectacle.

5. Cooling and Humidity Control

  • The Rain Vortex also serves a functional purpose by helping to cool the indoor environment and maintain humidity levels within Jewel Changi Airport.

6. Sustainability

  • The system is designed to be energy-efficient, using recycled water and minimizing waste.
  • It aligns with Singapore’s focus on sustainability and innovative urban design.

The Rain Vortex is not only a breathtaking visual centerpiece but also a testament to the integration of art, engineering, and environmental consciousness. It has become an iconic symbol of Singapore’s Changi Airport and a must-see attraction for visitors.

People Also Ask

Found at the Heart of Shiseido Forest Valley in Terminal 1 is the HSBC Rain Vortex, a free attraction, accessible to anyone passing through Terminal 1 of the airport. It's a rare opportunity for travelers to witness a breathtaking spectacle without any admission fees. That's right, a $0 ticket price.

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HSBC Rain Vortex Jewel's centrepiece attraction is the 40m HSBC Rain Vortex – the world's tallest indoor waterfall. Enjoy the light-and-sound show every hour from 7.30pm to 12.30am. To get to Jewel, take the complimentary airport shuttle to Terminal 2 and walk over to Jewel via the link bridge. From Singapore.

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Jewel is located on the landside and accessible to everyone, including local residents and travellers. 3. Can transit passengers visit Jewel? We recommend transit passengers to cater for at least 5 hours of transit time to comfortably visit and experience Jewel.

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HSBC Rain Vortex Jewel's centrepiece attraction is the 40m HSBC Rain Vortex – the world's tallest indoor waterfall. Enjoy the light-and-sound show every hour from 7.30pm to 12.30am. To get to Jewel, take the complimentary airport shuttle to Terminal 2 and walk over to Jewel via the link bridge.

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The Disney100 Light & Sound Show is scheduled to happen daily at 7.30pm, with an additional show from Fridays to Sundays at 9.30pm. You're bound to notice a massive 4-metre tall platinum statue of Mickey Mouse on the way to the Shiseido Forest Valley.

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Can transit passengers visit Jewel? We recommend transit passengers to cater for at least 5 hours of transit time to comfortably visit and experience Jewel. All passengers are reminded to check in for their departing flights at least 2 hours before their flight departure time.

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1 The HSBC Rain Vortex The waterfall's design was inspired by Singapore's tropical rains, adding novelty and wonder to the aimed multi-sensory experience for visitors to Jewel. While being a significantly eye-catching centerpiece attraction, visitors can bask in its full glory at numerous vantage points.

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HSBC Rain Vortex Jewel's centrepiece attraction is the 40m HSBC Rain Vortex – the world's tallest indoor waterfall. Enjoy the light-and-sound show every hour from 7.30pm to 12.30am. To get to Jewel, take the complimentary airport shuttle to Terminal 2 and walk over to Jewel via the link bridge.

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Free-to-use Rest Areas
  • Snooze Lounge, Level 2, Departure Transit Hall (near Cocoa Trees)
  • Snooze Lounge, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall (near Sunflower Garden)
  • Sanctuary Lounge [Suspended until further notice], Departure Transit Hall North Pier (opposite E5)


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Jewel HSBC Light and Sound show The Jewel light show lasts approximately five minutes and starts at 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:30 pm, 10:30 pm and 11:30 pm. You can choose to view the show from the ground floor or from one of the upper levels. There's no entry fee and you can see it from different spots.

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JEWEL ATTRACTIONS
  1. Jewel-rassic Quest. An augmented reality experience with dinosaurs.
  2. Walking Net. Balance your way through an adventure.
  3. Bouncing Net. Feel like you're bouncing among trees.
  4. Mirror Maze. Lose yourself in a kaleidoscopic escapade.
  5. Hedge Maze. ...
  6. Mastercard® Canopy Bridge. ...
  7. Canopy Park. ...
  8. Discovery Slides.


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To explore all Jewel Changi attractions and amenities, you should plan to spend at least four to five hours when you visit Jewel Changi Airport.

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Make sure you have valid travel documents, permits and visas if applicable. All visitors must pass immigration to exit the transit area before visiting Jewel. Jewel is conveniently connected to all four terminals (allow sufficient time for travelling between terminals).

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Latest Jewel Changi Airport Attraction Ticket Price 2023 Jewel Changi Airport Attraction ticket price - Canopy Park Admission: Starting from S$6.00. Jewel Changi Airport Attraction ticket price - Mastercard® Canopy Bridge + Canopy Park Pass: Starting from S$11.90.

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