View of a Beijing hutongView of a Beijing hutong
Source: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pekin.koncesjonowany.hutong.2.JPG
Author: Kwz
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The Hutongs refer to the many medieval alleyways that weave across central Beijing. They are some of the most photogenic, charming sights you will come across. And unfortunately, many of the hutongs are disappearing under the demolition ball, so if you want to see them, you better go to Beijing before they are all gone.

A good number of Beijing's residents still live in the hutongs. These alleyways are often bordered by the walls of courtyard houses, or siheyuan, which used to be owned by the high-ranking officials and rich people, but today most of them are state-owned.

Beijing Hutong areaBeijing Hutong area
Source: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Beijing_hutong_area_7.jpg
Author: Svalin
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It is easy to locate a hutong. Many of them run east to west in the city. You can start at the Qian Men subway station and explore the alleyways to the south of Qian Men.

Many of the siheyuan, if not destroyed and demolished, have been turned into boutique hotels, allowing guests to catch a glimpse of old Beijing.

How to reach the hutongs

There are plenty to choose from. Take the subway to the Qian Men station and start exploring.

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Timothy Tye
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