Shichahai and Nanluoguxiang Hutongs

Background

Shichahai is in Xicheng District, northwest of the Forbidden City and north of Beihai, and is made up of three lakes, Qianhai, Houhai and Xihai; Nanluoguxiang is in Dongcheng District, running from Gulou East Street in the north to Di'anmen East Street in the south. Shichahai's shores are lined with trees, and the area around the Yinding Bridge and the Drum and Bell Towers keeps the look of old Beijing. The name means "sea of ten temples": ten well-known Buddhist and Taoist temples stand around the lakes, along with several princely mansions and gardens, the best known being Prince Gong's Mansion and Prince Chun's Mansion; the Former Residence of Soong Ching-ling is also nearby. Nanluoguxiang is about 800 m long, and the surrounding area preserves many hutongs and courtyard houses, some of them associated with famous historical and literary figures; in recent years the lane has filled with restaurants, bars, cafés and souvenir shops and become a popular place to stroll.

Local customs

• At Shichahai, walk along the lakes or take a boat, rowing in summer and skating in winter, and take in Prince Gong's Mansion and the Drum Tower area on the way
• at Nanluoguxiang, walk the main lane, then turn into the side hutongs to see courtyard gateways and feel the contrast between the commercial main lane and the residential side lanes.

Travel tips

• The main lane of Nanluoguxiang is narrow and extremely crowded on holidays, so try to visit off-peak
• restaurants and bars cluster around the Shichahai lakes with widely varying prices, so check prices before ordering
• both are open neighbourhoods, and opening hours of shops and former residences along the way are subject to official information.
• For Shichahai, take the metro to the Shichahai Station area and walk
• for Nanluoguxiang, take the metro to Nanluoguxiang Station, right by the lane's south entrance
• check official sources for routes. In spring and summer the lakeside willows are green, good for boating and evening strolls
• autumn brings clear skies and lovely light in the hutongs
• once Houhai freezes in winter you can skate, but follow the on-site opening notices.