Shichahai is a famous scenic area that includes three lakes (Qian Hai, meaning Front Sea; Hou Hai, meaning Back Sea and Xihai, meaning Western Sea), surrounding places of historic interest and scenic beauty, and remnants of old-style Beijing residences, Hutong and Siheyuan (courtyard homes). It is located northwest of the Forbidden City and is always a good place for local Beijingers to relax and enjoy their lives. It is easy to find locals boating in the summer and skating in the winter. The history of Shichahai can be tracked to the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234).
It is one of the best places in China to view well-preserved Hutong and Siheyuan. Visiting Hutong by Pedi-cab is a popular activity for visitors from China and abroad.
The word Hutong originates from the Mongolian word Hottog which means well There are about 3,000 Beijing Hutong, the most famous two Hutong areas are Shichahai and Nanluoguxiang at Jiaodaokou.
Palaces of princes and princesses, former residences of the celebrities in the 20th century as well as dwellings for ordinary citizens are the major attractions at Shichahai. The nearby Drum and Bell towers, and the Deshengmeng Watch Tower are also frequently visited.
Since 2003, more than 40 bars, caf and restaurants have opened in Shichahai, making it one of the most popular areas for dinning and relaxation in the capital.
Visit Shichahai and experience the authentic taste of the style and features of old Beijing.

Yandai Xiejie: Tucked behind Houhai Lake, this is one of Beijing’s oldest Hutong lanes. It got its name from the many tobacco pipe shops mushrooming with the arrival of the Manchu rulers. With a combination of residential buildings and traditional shopfronts displaying carved window and selling an assortment of antiques, it is quaint and charmingly old-fashioned area.
Chaodou Hutong: This Hutong, once serving as an integral part of the Yuan Dynasty street grid pattern, stands today as one of the best preserved in the city. Its proximity to the Imperial City wall hidden deep within Nanluoguxiang has ensured its preservation.
Mao’er Hutong: Mao’er Hutong is one of the city’s famous alleys that most visitors fall in love with. Literally meaning “Hat-maker Lane”, the lane dates back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) when it was known as Wenchang Gong.
Mao’er Hutong is home to several places that have received cultural relic status. Sadly, none are open to the public. Wanrong’s Residence, home of China’s last empress, stands at No.s 35 and 37, while a little further down is No. 11, the former residence of Feng Guozhang, president of the Beijing government 1917-1918, Lastly, the Keyan Garden, which was once home to a Qing Dynasty sholar.
Visitors can, however, visit the houses at No.s 14 and 16, which provide a fascinating insight into the architectural styles of the time.
This Hutong runs west to east from Di’anmenwai to Nanluoguxiang. If you get lost, just ask around-someone will point you in the right direcation!

Location Map