Hangout in the hutongs 胡同

Unique insight into local life and old Beijing's cultural history
Noteworthy for: Hutongs are old residential neighbourhoods that were once found throughout Beijing, but are now being demolished in a fury to give way to skyscrapers and broad streets.

Word to the wise: When you're in the alleys, if you see a building painted with the character 拆('chai'), take a second look; the building is lined up for demolition.
Traditionally, Hutongs were arranged in enclosed courtyards ('Siheyuan'), often shared by four different families, separated by narrow winding alleys. Though not far from the bustling centre of town, life inside the alleys takes on a very different tone.

With no space for privacy, neighbours bring their daily lives out into the alleys. You'll see a baby being bathed next to old men playing Mahjong, and gossiping ladies in their pyjamas by the local kiosk, just footsteps away. These close-knit communities are charming to see and it represent an important element of Beijing culture.

A rickshaw tour is the most comfortable way to explore the Hutongs in cold weather. Many carts station outside Gulou where you can negotiate a price (around RMB 50-100) before you get on. Alternatively, set aside a couple of hours and hire a bike, or wander the network of alleys on foot.