The area surrounding the Forbidden City is rich with hutongs, each with its own story to tell. Most hutongs are just a short walk or rickshaw ride away from the palace complex. Some of the most famous ones include Nanluoguxiang, Beixinqiao, and the area around Jingshan Park.
I still remember the first time I wandered through the narrow alleys of Beijing's hutongs. It was a warm spring afternoon, and I was instantly captivated by the charm of these ancient lanes.
Over the years, I've led countless tours through various hutongs, but there's one that always holds a special place in my heart: Nanluoguxiang, my absolute favorite. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or just someone looking for a unique experience, Nanluoguxiang has something special to offer.
Hi, I'm Lily, a tour guide in Beijing. I have lived in Beijing for nearly twenty years, and in my heart, it has become my second hometown. I deeply love this city. I used to live in a hutong, but I have now moved into an apartment building, witnessing the changes in Beijing over the past twenty years. From the magnificent Forbidden City to the bustling Tiananmen Square, every corner of Beijing hides endless stories.
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Why I Most Recommend Nanluoguxiang Hutong?
Among all the hutongs, Nanluoguxiang is my absolute favorite. It's not just because of its historical significance, but also because of the vibrant atmosphere and the endless array of experiences.
Nanluoguxiang is one of the oldest hutongs in Beijing, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, with a history of over 700 years. It can be called a living fossil of Beijing.
There are a total of 16 alleys neatly arranged on both sides of the east and west. Shaped like fish bones, overlooking the entire block, it's like a centipede. Also known as Centipede Street, it is 787 meters long and 8 meters wide.
Nanluoguxiang HutongIts narrow lanes are lined with traditional siheyuan (courtyard houses) that have been converted into shops, cafés, and restaurants. What I love most about this place is how it seamlessly blends the old with the new. You can find everything from ancient architecture to trendy boutiques and delicious local snacks.
Various shops in NanluoguxiangOne of my favorite times to visit Nanluoguxiang is in the evening when the lanterns are lit and the alley comes alive with the sounds and smells of street food.
I remember once bringing a group of international tourists here, and they were absolutely fascinated. We tried a variety of snacks, from crispy pork belly to sweet bean paste buns.
The highlight was when we stumbled upon a small, family-run tea shop where we spent hours sipping fragrant jasmine tea and chatting with the locals. It was a perfect example of how Nanluoguxiang can offer a unique and memorable experience.
Nanluoguxiang Hutong in the eveningHow to Get to Nanluoguxiang Hutong?
Getting to Nanluoguxiang from the Forbidden City is quite easy and can be done in several ways. The most convenient option is to take a short taxi ride, which should take no more than 10 minutes.
Alternatively, you can walk or take a rickshaw, which is a more scenic and enjoyable way to travel. The journey itself can be part of the experience, as you pass through some of Beijing's most historic neighborhoods.
If you choose to walk, it will take about 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace. I highly recommend this option if you want to fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
How to Plan a Visit to the Forbidden City and Nanluoguxiang?
Combining a visit to the Forbidden City and Nanluoguxiang in one day is definitely doable and can be a fantastic way to experience both the grandeur of imperial China and the charm of its traditional neighborhoods. I suggest the following itinerary for your inspiration.
Morning:
Start your day early at the Forbidden City. The palace complex opens at 8:30 am, and it's best to arrive shortly after to avoid the peak crowds. Spend about 3-4 hours exploring the Forbidden City. I recommend focusing on the main halls and the imperial gardens.
The morning light is perfect for taking stunning photos, and the cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to walk around.
The Forbidden City in winterAfternoon:
After your visit to the Forbidden City, head to Nanluoguxiang. The most common way to explore hutongs is on foot, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.
However, rickshaw tours are also popular, offering a more leisurely and guided experience.
Our guests experienced the rickshawIf you're walking, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets, or hop on a rickshaw for a more relaxed journey.
Once you arrive, spend the next 2-3 hours exploring the hutong. Wander through the lanes, visit some of the small shops and galleries, and try out the local snacks.
There are a few small museums in the area that are worth checking out, such as the Former Residence of Lao She.
Evening:
After your hutong adventure, it's time to enjoy a delicious meal. There are plenty of restaurants in and around Nanluoguxiang that offer a variety of cuisines.
For a truly authentic experience, I recommend trying the roast duck at Quan Ju De Roast Duck Restaurant. It's a bit more upscale but well worth it for the quality and presentation.
Our guests tasted Quan Ju De Roast DuckIf you are looking for something more affordable, there are many local eateries that serve delicious and budget-friendly dishes, such as noodles with soybean paste (Beijing style), pork stew with bread, éclairs, and fried crab. No matter where you choose to dine, you're sure to have a memorable meal.
Soybean paste (Beijing style)The combination of the Forbidden City and Nanluoguxiang offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and local charm.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary will give you a glimpse into both the imperial splendor and the everyday life of Beijing.
Recommended Beijing Tours
So the next time you visit the Forbidden City, don't forget to explore the nearby hutongs and discover the hidden treasures that await you. Feel free to contact us to tailor-make a private Beijing tour that includes popular attractions as well as hidden gem discoveries in the hutongs.