The Hutongs are a network of narrow streets or alleyways within the city; a neighbourhood of shops, restaurants and homes set away from the main roads, skyscrapers and apartment buildings of modern China. It is here that you will find the traditional courtyard residences, known as siheyuan, along the alleys which form the heart of Old Beijing and its traditions.
An example of the traditional courtyard residences
In ancient China the majority of the population used to live in these residential areas, often according to social class. However, over time the number of hutongs in Beijing has dramatically decreased as they have been replaced by new roads and buildings and many residents have left their family homes in favour of modern facilities and apartment buildings.
A Beijing Hutong
And so I highly recommend a trip to the Hutongs in order to see this interesting aspect of Chinese cultural history preserved by the communities who have lived this way for generations. There are many Hutongs to choose from, scattered all over the city. One of the more historically famous Hutongs is Liulichang Culture Street, located in Xuanwu District, which is full of Chinese ancient treasures. The street’s name can be literally translated as ”Beijing Colored Glaze Factory Street” which gives a hint to its role in the past. The factory then became an antique market and today its shops sell jewellery, calligraphy, paintings, ancient books, tea and various other arts and crafts.
The tea house in Liulichang
If you are looking for a relaxing afternoon in the city, why not take a stroll down these streets and wander into the different shops, you may even find the perfect gift for friends and family back home! I recommend going to the tea house where you can sit down and try a cup of one of their many flavours of tea and then buy it afterwards in the shop. There is also a workshop at the back where you can observe the men making the calligraphy brushes by hand.
My friends sampling the tea in the Tea House
The workshop
And if you are looking for cheaper gifts or something for yourself, head to the Chinese equivalent of a pound shop at the bottom of the street. It sells everything from jewellery to furniture and all for 10 Yuan - my highlight were the bangles and wooden chopsticks in display boxes, a great souvenir to represent your time in China. And as always, dont forget to haggle!
And so if you are interested in experiencing the Hutong culture in Beijing, why not start your adventure in Liulichang Culture Street and then continue to explore the many other Hutongs across the city. If you are looking for more ideas about what to do and where to go in China, check out china travel.
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