Beijing's Gongjian Hutong: A Picturesque Alley Embraced by Trees

👍Recommended Reasons - Rich in history, it served as the site of the Ming Dynasty's Directorate of Palace Supplies, witnessing countless court affairs and boasting a profound cultural heritage. - The hutong is home to ancient catalpa and paulownia trees, creating a dreamlike wonderland when in full bloom. - Conveniently located near numerous attractions, including Beihai Park, Shichahai, and the Forbidden City. Detailed Address Eastern Xicheng District, Beijing. North from Di'anmen West Street, south to Jingshan Back Street. Ticket Price Free. 📅Tour Guide - Morning: Enter from the south entrance of Gongjian Hutong and visit the Sanguan Temple at No. 43, appreciating its ancient architectural style and historical charm. Stroll through the hutong, admiring the traditional siheyuan courtyards on both sides, and experience the hutong culture of old Beijing. - Noon: Savor traditional Beijing cuisine near the hutong, such as Zhajiangmian (fried sauce noodles) and Douzhi Jiaoquan (fermented soybean milk with fried dough rings). - Afternoon: Visit the Ming and Qing Dynasty ice cellar in Gongjian Wuxiang, now transformed into a themed restaurant. Take a break here and learn about the structure of ancient ice cellars. Continue north to the north entrance of the hutong, turn left to Beihai Park, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the imperial garden. - Evening: After leaving Beihai Park, head to Shichahai for a leisurely stroll along the lake, enjoying the picturesque scenery and the relaxed atmosphere of old Beijing. 🍜Food Guide - Ice Cellar Restaurant: Located in Gongjian Wuxiang, this restaurant offers not only delicious Beijing cuisine but also a unique dining experience in the ice cellar environment. - Huguosi Snacks: Not far from Gongjian Hutong, this place offers a variety of traditional Beijing snacks, such as Wandouhuang (pea flour cake), Lvdagun (glutinous rice rolls), and Madoufu (fermented mung bean curd), at affordable prices and authentic flavors. - Qingyun Tower: Located near Shichahai, this century-old Shandong cuisine restaurant is known for its Peking duck, sweet and sour fish, and Nine-Turn Intestines. With an elegant ambiance, it's perfect for gatherings with friends and family. 🏨Accommodation Guide - Hanting Hotel: Conveniently located near Gongjian Hutong, this hotel offers relatively affordable prices, suitable for budget-conscious travelers. - Beijing Shichahai Shadow Play Culture Theme Hotel: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural atmosphere of old Beijing with this hotel's exquisite room decor and shadow play theme. - Wangfujing Century Hotel: Located in a bustling area with comprehensive amenities, this hotel offers well-equipped facilities, attentive service, and stunning views of the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park. 💗Other Tips - Wear comfortable shoes for walking in the hutong. - Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best seasons to visit Gongjian Hutong, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. - Bring a jacket when visiting the Ice Cellar Restaurant, as the temperature inside the ice cellar can be quite low. - Some areas within the hutong are residential. Please maintain quiet and respect the lives of local residents.