Locals’ Choice: Food & Architecture You Won’t Find in Guidebooks

Prince Gong’s Mansion was once the residence of Heshen, a favored court official during Emperor Qianlong’s reign, and later of Prince Qing, the brother of Emperor Jiaqing. It is the best-preserved princely residence from the Qing Dynasty in Beijing. Renowned as a masterpiece of northern Chinese gardens, the mansion features winding paths, artfully arranged rockeries, and picturesque scenery at every turn. Just when you think you've seen it all, another doorway leads you to a hidden world, offering delightful surprises around every corner.

This winding alley, shaped like a traditional tobacco pipe, was once a bustling center for antique trading and tobacco pipe shops in old Beijing. At its end, the alley leads directly to Yinding Bridge — one of the best spots to enjoy scenic views of Shichahai Lake.

As the timekeeping center of the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, the Bell and Drum Towers area has preserved the most intact urban fabric of old Beijing. Climbing to the top of the towers offers a sweeping view of the central axis, where a sea of grey-tiled hutong alleys meets the modern skyline — a living testament to the architectural evolution of Beijing through the centuries.

As one of the most renowned hutong areas in Beijing, this neighborhood features eight distinctive alleyways symmetrically branching off the main lane. From former generals' residences to ordinary courtyard homes, it showcases a well-preserved cluster of Qing Dynasty architecture — a vibrant showcase of everyday life and local charm.