Beijing’s hutongs – a snippet

Beijing is a cosmopolitan city with a forest of high rise sky-scrapers and residential apartment blocks tickling the thick fog of dirty air that assures a steady stream of cloudy days. It is modern, gray and impersonal. Yet, a visit to the hutongs, which still hold the essence of old Beijing within their narrow streets and small eateries, shows a different side not visible in the rest of the city.

A must see destination.

September 29th, 2011, China
Tags: beijing • china • hutong • snippet

2 Comments

30 September, 2011
Dyanne@TravelnLass

So glad to learn that the charm of “Old Beijing” still exists. I was there in the early 90’s (shortly after they reopened China for tourism following Tiananmen) and have been reluctant to return, thinking that “the boom” must surely have tarnished my nostalgic memories. Can’t wait to see your “Snaps ‘n Blabs” about it.
30 September, 2011
Snapping Blabber

Dyanne, unfortunately not much of it is left, just a few spots around the city, which I am sure will not stand for much longer. Yes, there are a few poshed up stand-ins for traditional streets, but they feel like an amusement park. I found China lacking in exactly the authentic cultural part, which was very surprising. Not in a good way.
22 February, 2016
Mari

Janet – Les! Did you have a good time? These photos are anmizag! I went to the same place and I have to say, NONE of my photos look like this . mine is covered with people (it was during October 1-7 holidays where the entire world decided to be in Beijing). I especially like the last two pix!