Dongsi Hutong Area (东四胡同片区)

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Overview

The Dongsi Hutong area is located in the central part of Dongcheng District, Beijing, between Dongsi South Street, Dongsi North Street, and Chaoyangmen Inner Street. It is one of the most well-preserved areas retaining the Yuan Dynasty capital’s hutong layout within Beijing. The hutongs here have continued from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties to the present day. Most hutongs run east-west, about 7 meters wide, with connecting alleys running north-south, forming a grid-like neighborhood system. The area has hardly undergone major demolition or reconstruction. Rows of siheyuan (traditional courtyard houses) stand side by side, with traditional elements such as gate towers, screen walls, drum stones, and brick carvings well preserved. Many authors have called it an "open-air hutong museum."

The name "Dongsi" originates from the Yuan Dynasty’s "Cross Street." During the Ming Dynasty, four wooden archways were built here, and since it was located east of the Imperial City, it was named "Dongsi" (East Four), a name still in use today. Dongsi South and North Streets were once important commercial and snack streets in old Beijing. Today, they retain many mansions and celebrity residences from the Ming, Qing, and Republican eras, while also integrating the Longfusi Cultural District, Longfusi Art Museum, independent bookstores, cafes, bakeries, and creative shops. This blend creates a unique atmosphere of "old city texture + trendy lifestyle." Many travelogues mention that Dongsi is neither as crowded as Nanluoguxiang nor as dominated by selfie-taking crowds as some trendy streets. Instead, it feels like "the kind of neighborhood you want to return to repeatedly after living in Beijing for a while."

From a cultural lineage perspective, between Dongsi First Alley and Tenth Alley, there is a dense distribution of former residences of many famous figures such as Qian Zhongshu, Yang Jiang, Mao Dun, Hou Baolin, Meng Xiaodong, Wang Mintong (from Wanyan Litong’s records), Ye Shengtao, Zhu Qiqian, Yan Xishan, Hai Lancha, Chong Li, Yu Qian, and Xu Shichang. The Dongsi Fourth Alley’s Dongsi Hutong Museum and the Shijia Hutong Museum on Shijia Hutong systematically showcase the formation of hutongs, the hierarchy of siheyuan gate towers, and the daily life of old Beijing residents, making them key points for understanding Beijing’s hutong culture. Many authors link Dongsi with Shijia Hutong, Neiwubu Street, Nanxincang, and the former site of Duan Qirui’s government, strolling through the area with a "see the siheyuan—recognize the gate towers—listen to stories" approach, flipping through "half a modern history" within a few kilometers.

From a lifestyle perspective, Dongsi is not only a historic district but also a vibrant living community full of everyday life. In the early morning, you can have breakfast at time-honored snack shops; at noon, enjoy a home-style meal at a hutong eatery; during the day, lose yourself in small bookstores like "Maybe There Are Books," Paper Voice Bookstore, Jetlag Books, and Sanlian Taofen Bookstore; in the afternoon, soak up the sun and street views at cafes such as Shanhai Sihe, Songqu, Fuger, JM Cafe, Wuwen Xidong, and Yuanyi Yi. At dusk, head to the Longfusi nine-story rooftop to watch the sunset, with views stretching to the Guomao CBD, Jingshan Wanchun Pavilion, and Beihai White Pagoda. Some describe that in the words of Dongsi, time slows down, and life flows like prose poetry tinged with a faint autumnal feeling. Whether you’re taking a quiet solo walk, a romantic artistic date, or a relaxed city walk with parents or kids, the Dongsi Hutong area is an underrated yet highly charming urban walking destination.

Best Travel Seasons

Autumn: Mid to Late October – Early November (Widely Recognized as the Best)

• Visual Highlights: Often described in multiple travelogues as "Beijing's autumn hidden in the hutongs." The big white ash tree in Courtyard No. 30 of Xinsi Hutong looks like a giant "golden umbrella." The white ash trees beside Tian Han’s former residence in Xiguan Hutong and along Qinglong Hutong, under sunlight from 10:00 to 16:00, make the yellow leaves seem to glow. Fallen leaves cover the alleys, rustling softly. There’s hardly any competition for photo spots, making it perfect for photography and quiet strolls.
• Recommended Areas: Xinsi Hutong, Xiguan Hutong, Qinglong Hutong, and the area from Dongsi 4th Alley to Dongsi 42nd Alley. Especially near the "Xiuxiu Coffee" shop, described as a "crazy" avenue of yellow leaves, with clear blue skies and fully yellow leaves—every street is photogenic.
• Timing Tips: Comfortable temperatures; recommended visiting between 14:00–16:00 for soft light, ideal for backlit portraits that capture glowing hair effects. On clear days, 10:00–16:00 is great for photographing yellow leaves and light-shadow interplay.

Winter: Lunar December to Around Chinese New Year (Strongest Festive Atmosphere)

• Atmosphere Highlights: The Longfusi Street area hosts the "Benfu New Year" themed event, with the entire neighborhood decorated with New Year lanterns and traditional patterns. There are five wishing trees and a digital wishing barrage screen. The Dongsi Longfusi area also features a New Year market gathering time-honored brands, intangible cultural heritage crafts, Beijing-style performances, specialty foods, robot interactions, Fu Bao and NPC parades bringing blessings, and traditional Chinese song and dance—full of festive spirit.
• Classic Route Combination: Yonghegong (Lama Temple) — Guozijian (Imperial College) — Wudaoying — Dongsi North Street — Longfusi. This route is recommended by many authors as the top choice for "finding the New Year atmosphere in the hutongs."
• Weather & Clothing: Beijing’s winter is windy and feels cold, especially for visitors from southern China. Windproof and warm clothing is essential, with a layered dressing strategy so "each layer looks presentable," allowing easy adjustment indoors and outdoors. Hats, scarves, and windproof jackets are recommended.

Spring: March–April (Flowers and Trees Awakening)

• Highlights: The begonia flowers bloom like snow in the small courtyard of Ye Shengtao’s former residence at Dongsi 8th Alley, paired with gray brick gates, evoking a refined literary gathering atmosphere. Sophora, jujube, and Chinese toon trees in Shijia Hutong, Neiwubu Street, and various Dongsi hutongs begin to sprout, perfect for plant observation and nature education with children.
• Climate: Temperatures warm up but mornings and evenings remain cool. Bring a light jacket; dress lightly during the day and add layers in the evening.

Summer: June–August (Shade and Post-Rain Light Effects)

• Cooling Tips: Summer days can be hot, but the hutongs have many old trees and deep courtyards providing ample shade. Morning or evening city walks are recommended to avoid the midday sun. Sitting under courtyard trees listening to distant Beijing dialect and watching cats bask in the sun offers a different kind of leisurely experience.
• Photography Highlights: After rain, the stone-paved hutong streets reflect light beautifully, combined with street lamps and neon signs, making it ideal for capturing reflections and night scenes.

Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

• Peak Seasons: Autumn weekends in October–November and around Chinese New Year. Popular cafes, bakeries, and the Longfusi nine-story rooftop may have queues. It’s advisable to avoid peak times (visit on weekdays or early/late hours) or plan your route in advance.
• Off-Peak Seasons: Summer weekdays and early spring, when crowds are thinner and quieter, are better for deep exploration and leisurely wandering through the streets. Regardless of the season, choosing sunny or partly cloudy weather is recommended, as the changing light and shadows in the Dongsi hutongs are a major highlight of the experience.

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Transportation and Arrival Methods

Metro (Preferred Method)

The Dongsi Hutong area is located within the Second Ring Road, with dense metro coverage. The core hubs are Dongsi Station (东四站) and Zhangzizhonglu Station (张自忠路站). Nearby stations include China Art Museum Station (中国美术馆站), Dengshikou Station (灯市口站), Yonghegong Station (雍和宫站), and Beixinqiao Station (北新桥站), allowing flexible starting points depending on your itinerary.

1. Dongsi Station (Highly Recommended)

• Lines: Metro Line 5 and Line 6 interchange.
• Common Exits:
  • Exit B: Suitable for heading to Dongsi South Street (东四南大街) and Shijia Hutong (史家胡同) area. Many citywalk routes start from “Line 5 Dongsi Station Exit B.”
  • Exit D: Exiting here leads directly to Dongsi North Street (东四北大街). To the north are dense clusters of small shops like Luhui, HERE, Paper Sound Bookstore, Fuguer, and Wuwen Xidong, ideal for starting a food and shopping route.
  • Exits C/E: Close to the Longfusi Cultural Street area. Exit E of Line 6 at Dongsi Station opens right onto the Longfusi caisson ceiling and Longfu Building, making it the best exit for direct access to Longfusi.
  • Exit F: Further north, suitable for starting a leisurely walk southward from the northern section of Dongsi North Street.

2. Zhangzizhonglu Station (Northern Entrance)

• Line: Metro Line 5.
• Exit B: Leads directly to Dongsi North Street, from where you can stroll south along Dongsi Street or head north to connect Yonghegong—Guozijian—Wudaoying route. This station is a central hub for several large loops including “Yonghegong—Dongsi—Longfusi.”
• Exit D: Many autumn leaf routes use “Zhangzizhonglu Metro Exit D → Xinsi Hutong → Xiguan Hutong → Qinglong Hutong” as their path, making it the best entrance for exploring lesser-known hutongs with autumn foliage.

3. China Art Museum Station

• Line: Metro Line 8.
• Suitable For: Entering from the south side towards Dongsi South Street, Longfusi, Nanxincang, and the former site of Duan Qirui’s government office. Ideal for combining visits to the China Art Museum and Wusi Street cultural line.

4. Dengshikou Station

• Line: Metro Line 5.
• Exit A: Common route is “Dengshikou Station Exit A → Shijia Hutong Museum → Neiwubu Hutong → Dongsi South Street → Longfusi,” suitable for entering the Dongsi area from the Shijia Hutong side.

5. Yonghegong Station / Beixinqiao Station (Extended Area)

• Yonghegong Station: Metro Lines 2 and 5, Exit G leads directly to Yonghegong and Wudaoying Hutong. Walking south connects to Dongsi North Street. This is one of the classic starting points for the “Yonghegong—Guozijian—Wudaoying—Dongsi—Longfusi” route.
• Beixinqiao Station: Metro Line 5, near the northern section of Dongsi North Street and Guijie (Ghost Street), ideal for food and shopping from north to south in Dongsi and surrounding areas.

Bus

Dongsi South/North Street, Chaoyangmen Inner Street, and Zhangzizhonglu are traditional bus trunk lines. Common routes include 109, 110, 116, 684, 701, among others. There are also multiple bus stops around Longfusi, Nanxincang, and the China Art Museum. Due to frequent route adjustments, it is recommended to use Gaode Map or the “Beijing Bus” App for real-time station and schedule information.

Walking and Cycling

• Walking: The Dongsi Hutong area is flat with no significant slopes, perfect for citywalks. The full route from Dongsi North Street—Zhangzizhonglu—Beixinqiao—Yonghegong—Guozijian—Wudaoying is about 2.5–3 kilometers, and you can adjust the distance according to your stamina.
• Cycling: Shared bikes are densely distributed along Dongsi North Street, Zhangzizhonglu, Beixinqiao, and Yonghegong. Many travelogues suggest “scan a bike anytime you get tired,” and some describe the experience as “about 6 kilometers in total, cycling through hutongs is super atmospheric.” When cycling, be mindful of pedestrians and occasional motor vehicles in the hutongs, and slow down to yield.

Driving and Parking

• Not Recommended to Drive into Hutongs: The internal roads of Dongsi Hutongs are narrow, mostly one-way or restricted for motor vehicles, and residential parking spaces are limited and often full during holidays.
• Recommended Parking Spots:
  • Longfusi Underground Parking Lot: Suitable for itineraries centered around the Longfusi cultural street area.
  • Nanxincang Business Building Parking Lot: Close to Dongsi Shitiao, Nanxincang, and the former Duan Qirui government office site, ideal for starting northern routes.
  • Nearby public parking lots and street meters are limited, so allow extra time to find parking during holidays.

From Major Transport Hubs to Dongsi

• Beijing Railway Station → Dongsi:

  • Metro: Take Line 2 one stop to Chongwenmen, transfer to Line 5 northbound for two stops to Dongsi Station. Total about 15 minutes.
  • Taxi: Depending on traffic, about 10–15 minutes to Dongsi South/North Street.

• Beijing West Railway Station → Dongsi:

  • Metro: Line 7 → Caishikou transfer to Line 4 → Xuanwumen transfer to Line 2 → Chongwenmen transfer to Line 5 → Dongsi Station. Slightly longer but clear transfers.
  • Taxi: Depending on traffic, about 25–35 minutes.

• Capital Airport → Dongsi:

  • Metro: Airport Line → Sanyuanqiao transfer to Line 10 → Huixinxijie Nankou transfer to Line 5 southbound → Dongsi or Zhangzizhonglu Station.
  • Airport Shuttle Bus: To Dongzhimen, then taxi about 10 minutes to Dongsi area.

Money-Saving and Route Planning Tools

• Transportation Costs: The Dongsi area is compact and concentrated, allowing for “zero-cost ground transportation”—arrive by metro, then explore entirely on foot and shared bike, saving money while fully experiencing the hutong texture.
• Route Planning Apps: Many travelogues recommend using tools like Gaode Map’s “Street Scanning Leaderboard”, Zhibei Travel App, and Yuanzhou Travel Notes to automatically generate walking/cycling routes and photo spots, very friendly for lazy travelers and first-time visitors.

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Tickets and Opening Hours

Overview

The Dongsi Hutong area is an open urban neighborhood, with most hutongs and streets accessible all day without tickets or reservations. Only a few museums, exhibition halls, and nearby extended attractions require tickets or have restricted opening hours. It is recommended to verify the latest information on-site or through official channels before your visit.

Free Admission Spots

1. Dongsi Hutong Cluster and Surrounding Public Hutongs

• Scope: From Dongsi Toutiao to Dongsi Shitiao, Xinsi Hutong, Xiguan Hutong, Qinglong Hutong, etc.
• Access: Public roads, open all day, free to visit, no reservation needed.

2. Dongsi Hutong Museum (No. 77, Dongsi Sitiao)

• Tickets: Free.
• Reservation: Multiple 2024 travel notes clearly state "free 🆓 no reservation required."
• Opening Hours:
  • Commonly reported as 9:00–12:00, 14:00–17:00 or 9:00–12:00, 14:00–17:30, with slight variations; please refer to on-site notices.
  • Closed for lunch break around noon, so plan accordingly.
• Closed Days: Some notes mention "closed every Tuesday and Thursday," others say "open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday." Overall, it appears to be closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays, open other days, but always check the latest announcements.

3. Shijia Hutong Museum (No. 24, Shijia Hutong)

• Although located in Shijia Hutong, it is often visited together with Dongsi.
• Tickets: Free.
• Reservation: No reservation needed.
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 09:30–16:30, closed on Monday.
• Fixed Guided Tour Times:
  • Tuesday to Friday: 14:30;
  • Saturday and Sunday: 10:30 and 14:30.

4. Longfusi Art Museum / Longfu Art Museum (9th Floor, Longfu Cultural Center)

• Tickets: Most permanent or public art exhibitions are free 🆓 and no reservation is required; some special exhibitions may charge or require booking.
• Reservation: Some exhibitions require booking via the official Longfusi or Longfu Art Museum WeChat public account or mini-program; please refer to the current exhibition announcements.

Paid Attractions and Activities (Nearby Extensions)

1. Guozijian + Confucius Temple (Guozijian Street)

• Ticket Prices:
  • Full price: ¥30 per person (~$4.20 USD);
  • Half price for students;
  • Free for under 18 (in line with Beijing cultural venue policies).
• Guided Tours: Free guided tours daily at 10:00 and 14:00.
• Location: Not inside Dongsi Hutong but often combined as a northern extension of Dongsi Beidajie, linked with Yonghegong and Wudaoying Hutong for a combined visit.

2. Longfusi Building 9th Floor Rooftop (including some exhibitions)

• 2024 travel notes mention "the 9th floor has a wide view... I just went yesterday, ticket costs ¥38," indicating the current model for the Longfusi 9th floor "exhibition + rooftop" is mostly paid.
• Reference Price: About ¥38 per person (~$5.30 USD), usually includes exhibitions like "Three Meals Four Seasons" and rooftop viewing; prices may vary with exhibition themes.
• Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be bought on-site or online via related exhibition or Longfusi official channels.

Discounts and Combined Tickets

• Discount Groups: Students, seniors, etc., can enjoy half-price or free admission at Guozijian, Confucius Temple, and other nearby attractions with valid ID; specific discounts depend on the venue’s daily announcements.
• Combined Tickets: Dongsi Hutong Museum, Shijia Hutong Museum, and Longfusi Art Museum are currently free with no combined ticket system; Guozijian and Confucius Temple usually offer a combined ticket allowing access to both sites.

Reservations and Notes

• Dongsi Hutong Museum and Shijia Hutong Museum: Currently no reservation required, but crowd control may be implemented during holidays. It is recommended to follow the "Dongcheng District Culture and Tourism" or relevant museum WeChat public accounts for the latest announcements and temporary closures.
• Longfusi Exhibitions and 9th Floor Rooftop: Some large or popular exhibitions may require online booking. Check the official Longfusi or Longfu Art Museum WeChat public accounts or mini-programs before your visit to confirm reservation requirements and ticket prices.
• Time Planning: Both hutong museums have lunch breaks and closed days. Try to schedule visits in the morning or early afternoon to avoid arriving when closed.

Recommended Duration of Stay

Quick Experience: 2–3 Hours

Ideal for visitors with limited time who just want a brief feel of the Dongsi Hutongs atmosphere and a few representative spots. You can choose one of the following short routes:

• Route A (Hutong Culture Quick Tour):

  • Exit Metro Line 5, Dongsi Station (东四站) at Exit D → Walk to Dongsi Fourth Alley (东四四条) → View iconic buildings like Hengchang Ruiji at the west entrance of the hutong → Visit the Dongsi Hutong Museum (about 1 hour) → After the museum, stroll freely within Dongsi Fourth Alley to experience the traditional gate towers and siheyuan courtyards → Return to Dongsi North Street (东四北大街) and relax at one or two cozy cafés.

• Route B (Longfusi Urban Renewal Line):

  • Exit Metro Line 5, Dongsi Station (东四站) at Exit C or E → Check out the painted ceiling and paifang archway of Longfusi Temple (隆福寺) → Take the elevator to the 9th floor of Longfusi Building for exhibitions and rooftop views (about 1–1.5 hours) → Wander around the Longfusi cultural block, browsing bookstores, bakeries, and creative shops.

Standard Tour: Half Day (4–5 Hours)

Suitable for first-time visitors to Dongsi who want to balance history, culture, and local life. You can plan a half-day itinerary:

• South Section + Longfusi Combination:

  • Visit Shijia Hutong Museum (史家胡同博物馆) → View former residences of celebrities in Shijia Hutong → Stroll through the Neiwubu Hutong neighborhood → Walk through Dongsi South Street (东四南大街) to experience the old market atmosphere → Head north into Dongsi Fourth Alley to visit the Dongsi Hutong Museum and take a leisurely walk in the hutong → End at Longfusi cultural block, watching the sunset from the art gallery or the 9th-floor rooftop.

• North Section Foodie Route:

  • Exit Metro Line 5, Dongsi Station (东四站) at Exit D → Walk along Dongsi North Street (东四北大街), exploring bookstores and cafés → Continue to bakeries and dim sum shops near Zhang Zizhong Road Station (张自忠路站) → If energy allows, proceed to the Beixinqiao area before taking the metro back.

In-Depth Exploration: Full Day (6–8 Hours)

Perfect for travelers deeply interested in hutong history, architectural classifications, and celebrity residences who want a systematic “hutong crawl.” Reserve a full day:

• Dongsi Main Alleys – Ten Alleys “Celebrity Residences + Gate Tower Grades” Line:

  • Sequentially connect Dongsi First Alley through Tenth Alley (东四头条至十条), focusing on identifying different gate tower styles such as Wangfu gates, Guangliang gates, and Ruyi gates. Recognize nameplates of famous residents like Qian Zhongshu, Mao Dun, Hou Baolin, Fukang’an, Meng Xiaodong, Wang Mintong, Yu Qian, Chong Li, Hailancha, Yan Xishan, Ye Shengtao, Zhu Qiqian, and Yimo. Along the way, visit key spots like the Dongsi Hutong Museum and Nanxincang.
  • The entire route is recommended as a combination of walking and cycling, allowing 6+ hours, with lunch and rest breaks at hutong cafés or snack shops.

• Large Loop Combination:

  • Morning: Explore and eat along Dongsi North Street (东四北大街) → Noon: Lunch at Beixinqiao or Guijie Street (簋街) → Afternoon: Pray at Yonghegong Temple, visit Guozijian and Confucius Temple, and stroll through Wudaoying Hutong → Evening: Return to Longfusi 9th-floor rooftop to watch the sunset → Night: Take the metro back from Dongsi or Zhang Zizhong Road Station.

Pairing with Nearby Attractions

• Dongsi + Ditan Park (地坛公园): Plan a one-day itinerary with “morning food and hutong stroll along Dongsi North Street + afternoon visit to Ditan Park’s ancient altar buildings and shaded walks.”
• Dongsi + Wusi Avenue Cultural Line (五四大街文化线): Connect Dongsi with the National Art Museum of China, Wusi Avenue, Peking University Red Building, and 77 Creative Park, ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts.

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Highlights

1. Overall Appearance of the Dongsi Hutong Cluster

• Spatial Layout: From Dongsi Toutiao to Dongsi Shitiao, there are more than twenty parallel hutongs, with the overall appearance well preserved, clearly reflecting the Yuan Dynasty capital’s hutong texture. Most hutongs run east-west, about 7 meters wide, with connecting alleys running north-south, forming a grid-like neighborhood.
• Architectural Features: Many large households, exquisite brick carvings, and ancient shady trees. Doorway brick carvings often feature auspicious motifs such as bats (symbolizing fortune), gourds (fortune and prosperity), plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, chrysanthemums, monkeys offering longevity, blessings before your eyes, and cranes and deer welcoming spring. These are excellent examples to observe old Beijing aesthetics and symbolism.

2. Representative Hutongs and Celebrity Residences

1. Dongsi Toutiao

• No. 1: Chinese Academy of Social Sciences dormitory, once home to literati such as Qian Zhongshu, Yang Jiang, and Bian Zhilin.
• No. 5: Former residence of Mao Dun, originally the Chinese Research Institute of Peking Union Medical College.
• No. 19: Former residence of Hou Baolin, a master of crosstalk comedy, with a humorous “One Household Hou” seal carved at the door.

2. Dongsi Ertiao

• Nos. 11/13/15: Former residence of Fukang’an, a favored minister of Emperor Qianlong and a high-ranking official in mid-Qing dynasty, with a palace-grade mansion bestowed by the emperor.
• No. 21: Another section of Fukang’an’s residence, a strictly regulated siheyuan (courtyard house).

3. Dongsi Santiao

• No. 35: Prince Che’s Mansion (Prince Chelinbabu’s Mansion), a remnant of a Mongolian prince’s residence, featuring grand gates and deep courtyards with very high architectural status.
• No. 65: Former residence of Meng Xiaodong, a famous Peking opera diva known as the “Winter Queen,” who lived here when she first arrived in Beijing; descendants still reside here.
• No. 67: Former residence of Wang Mintong, known as the “most beautiful princess of the Qing dynasty,” a close relative of the last empress Wanrong, who lived here in her later years; her story is poignant and moving.
• Multiple addresses such as Nos. 13, 17, 25, 77, and 79 are designated historic buildings in Beijing, with well-preserved brick-carved gatehouses.

4. Dongsi Sitiao

• Nos. 1/3/5: Mianyi Residence, home of Mianyi (courtesy name Dazhai), a member of the Daoguang Emperor’s clan, known as the “Emperor’s Uncle’s House.” This three-courtyard residence features high entrance steps and tall ancient locust trees beside the gate, a typical high-ranking clan mansion.
• No. 31: Said to be Ji Xiaolan’s “official dormitory” within the inner city (his “Yuewei Cottage” was outside the city).
• No. 77: Dongsi Hutong Museum, formerly the Dongsi police station, a three-courtyard siheyuan layout with complete traditional elements such as the hanging flower gate, screen wall, and tile house installations, fully presenting hutong and siheyuan culture.
• No. 83: Former site of Baoquan Bureau East Mint, a Qing dynasty “banknote printing factory” that minted coins like Kangxi Tongbao and Qianlong Tongbao; the only surviving site of Beijing’s four major Baoquan bureaus.
• No. 85: Features high steps, large drum stones, 13-room inverted south-facing house, with visible horse holes on the walls. Legend says it was once a prince’s mansion, a wealthy merchant’s residence, and the home of a Japanese spy leader; later it became the residence of great writer Liao Mosha. The architecture is imposing.
• No. 86: Hengchang Ruiji, a foreign goods store and photo studio opened in 1928, with red railings, green pillars, and brick-carved plaques, a landmark façade in Dongsi Hutong.

5. Dongsi Wutiao

• No. 3: Yuqian Mansion, residence of the Governor-General of Liangjiang who drowned himself after the fall of Zhenhai city during the Opium War; the courtyard is solemn and dignified.
• No. 15: A Beijing historic building with well-preserved gatehouse and courtyard layout.
• No. 29: Former site of Shuiyue Temple, a Ming dynasty ancient temple, now only the rear hall remains, converted into a residence, but the temple’s roof shape is still identifiable.
• No. 55: Former residence of Tang Shaoyi, originally the Jingzheng residence, later sold to the Republic of China Premier Tang Shaoyi, then to Liang Dunyan, remodeled into a large mansion combining Chinese and Western styles, once with over 100 rooms and gardens. After the founding of the PRC, residents included Wei Lihuang, Minister of Metallurgy Wang Heshou, and Chen Shaokun.

6. Dongsi Liutiao

• No. 9: Said to be the former residence of Kawashima Yoshiko (Jin Bihui), full of legendary stories.
• No. 13: Former site of a Japanese-built shrine in Beijing, later used as the office of the Postal Publishing House after 1949.
• Nos. 14, 51, 61: Doors with exquisite brick carvings and delicate lintel decorations, excellent examples for studying the hierarchy of residential gatehouses.
• No. 55: Residence of Sha Qianli, the first Minister of Grain after the founding of the PRC.
• No. 57: Residence of Pu Yuan, descendant of Prince Chengjun, a royal family descendant’s home.
• Nos. 63/65: Chongli Residence, home of Qing dynasty Grand Secretary Chongli during the Guangxu era, nearly 10,000 square meters of private Qing dynasty mansion, known as the “Crown of Dongcheng.” Now a large compound not open to the public, but the eight-character screen wall and horse-tethering posts on the outer wall still show its former grandeur.
• Yuanyi Yi: A flower shop + café inside the hutong, with plants on the first floor and coffee and tea on the second, decorated with trumpet vines and fruit trees at the entrance. It’s a popular “final rest stop” on many routes.

7. Dongsi Qitiao

• No. 61: Hailancha Mansion, residence of a famous general during the Qianlong era, titled “Chao Yong Gong,” with a dignified layout.
• Nos. 77/79: Yan Xishan Mansion, originally “Can Gong Di,” a Qing dynasty prince’s mansion, later the residence of Shanxi warlord Yan Xishan during the Republic of China era, witnessing the power transitions from late Qing to Republic.

8. Dongsi Batiao

• No. 71: Former residence of Ye Shengtao, a famous educator and writer. The small courtyard has crabapple trees that bloom like snow in spring. Writers such as Bing Xin and Zang Kejia once discussed poetry here, giving the place a strong literary atmosphere.
• No. 111: Former residence of Zhu Qiqian, a modern politician, industrialist, and president of the China Construction Society, important in the history of Chinese ancient architecture preservation.

9. Dongsi Jiutiao

• No. 69: Residence of Prince Yimo, a Qing royal Aisin Gioro family mansion, with gatehouse regulations reflecting clan status.
• Near the west entrance of the hutong, close to the southeast exit of Zhang Zizhong Road Metro Station, there is a pavilion-style small square, a daily activity space for local residents and children.
• The hutong hosts many guesthouses, beverage shops, and cultural creative stores with carefully designed storefronts, attempting to awaken urban memories through new business formats.

10. Dongsi Shitiao

• No. 22: Nanxincang, one of the Ming and Qing royal granaries, now the Nanxincang Business Building. The red brick vaulted space is often used for exhibitions and events, a cultural landmark blending ancient granary and modern business space.

3. Museums and Cultural Spaces

1. Dongsi Hutong Museum (No. 77, Dongsi Sitiao)

• Courtyard Layout: A typical three-courtyard siheyuan, fully displaying traditional elements such as the main gate, screen wall, hanging flower gate, main house, and side rooms.
• Exhibits: Systematically introduces the formation of Beijing hutongs, the historical evolution of the Dongsi area, siheyuan gatehouse hierarchies, and residents’ daily life.
• Special Features:
  • Hanging Flower Gate: A “second gate” only for large households, symbolizing the ritual space where “a noble lady does not leave the main gate, nor step beyond the second gate.”
  • Screening Room: Continuously plays the documentary “The Golden Age of Beijing Hutongs,” telling stories of hutongs and siheyuan through images.
  • “Impression Tile House” Installation: Combines siheyuan roof tiles with modern art, a popular photo spot.
  • Old Locust Tree in the Courtyard: Often used by visitors as a photo backdrop, full of hutong atmosphere.

2. Shijia Hutong Museum (No. 24, Shijia Hutong)

• Known as “One Hutong, Half of China,” the museum displays 130 miniature courtyard models of Shijia Hutong, restoring the spatial structure of the hutong.
• Features memorial exhibitions for Ling Shuhua and Chen Xiying, and displays of household items from the 1950s and 60s, presenting hutong daily life from the Republic of China to early New China.

3. Longfusi Art Museum / Longfu Art Museum (9th Floor, Longfu Cultural Center)

• Located on the top floor of Longfu Cultural Center, regularly hosting contemporary art exhibitions and urban renewal-themed shows.
• The rooftop platform is called the “Little Forbidden City in the Sky,” offering views eastward to the Guomao CBD and China Zun Tower, westward to Jingshan Wanchun Pavilion and Beihai White Pagoda. The juxtaposition of ancient and modern skyline is stunning.
• Some exhibitions like “Three Meals Four Seasons” focus on old Beijing food memories, combining intangible cultural heritage utensils with digital black technology, recreating hutong street vendor calls and old brand utensils.

4. Former Site of Duan Qirui’s Executive Government (near Dongsi Shitiao)

• Former late Qing Ministry of Army and Republic of China executive government site, featuring gray bricks, red windows, classical colonnades, and typical Baroque-style gray buildings.
• Now the Dongcheng campus of the High School Affiliated to Renmin University, not open to the public, but can be viewed and photographed from Zhang Zizhong Road side. It has been a filming location for TV dramas such as “The Age of Awakening.”

4. Longfusi Cultural Block

• Longfusi Caijing (Decorative Ceiling): Visible immediately upon exiting Exit E of Dongsi Metro Station, a golden caisson ceiling standing tall with symmetrical composition, one of Longfusi’s most recognizable photo backgrounds.
• Longfusi Paifang (Archway): Red walls and black tiles with an ancient plaque, perfect for photos with people.
• Longfusi Nine-Story Rooftop: Offers excellent views of Guomao CBD, China Zun Tower, CCTV Tower, Jingshan Wanchun Pavilion, and Beihai White Pagoda; especially spectacular at sunset.
• Cultural and Creative Plaza: Skateboard and roller-skate friendly, often featuring art installations and trendy events, a gathering place for young people and families.

5. Bookstores and Artistic Spaces

• Maybe Books: Combines bookstore, study room, exhibition, and snacks, with a two-story terrace and cats, ideal for long reading sessions and daydreaming.
• Paper Sound Bookstore: Bookstore on the first floor, café on the second, quiet atmosphere, suitable for studying and cat petting; a “spiritual supply station” on Dongsi North Street.
• Jetlag Books: A literary-oriented bookstore + café, often included in the “Fengrong Route,” good for browsing foreign language and art books.
• Sanlian Taofen Bookstore: Near the China Art Museum, with an old-school bookstore vibe, suitable to combine with a Dongsi city walk.
• Little Concerto General Store: Sells cultural and creative goods and daily necessities, a small but beautiful stop on the literary route.

6. Hidden Activities and Niche Experiences

• Recognizing Gatehouses: Around Dongsi Santiao, Sitiao, Wutiao, and Liutiao, observe gate width, pillar styles, number of door studs, and size of drum stones to distinguish prince mansion gates, Guangliang gates, golden pillar gates, Ruyi gates, Manzi gates, etc., understanding the social hierarchy behind different siheyuan.
• Plant Observation: In Shijia Hutong, Neiwubu Street, and various Dongsi hutongs, identify common old Beijing tree species such as locust, jujube, ginkgo, and Chinese toon, as well as residents’ homegrown chili peppers, okra, grapes, and pomegranates. Great for parent-child nature education.
• Hutong Corner Convenience Store Experience: In Dongsi Jiutiao, Dongsi Shitiao, and Qianchaomian Hutong areas, buy a bottle of Beibingyang soda or hawthorn soda, sit on a bamboo chair listening to elderly neighbors chatting, and feel the “chickens and dogs hear each other” neighborhood warmth. The Qianchaomian Hutong convenience store became a check-in spot due to the novel “Typhoon Eye,” but please be mindful not to disturb residents.
• Self-Service Photo Studio: Etniabox Dongsi store is located on the second floor of Pomelo White clothing store at No. 59 Dongsi South Street, open 11:30–21:00, no reservation needed, offering 5/10/20-minute packages (¥39.9–229, ~ $6–33 USD), suitable for 1–3 people, with 60+ headwear props, all digital photos included, with options to print photos and bookmarks. A great choice for friends or couples to insert a studio photo experience into their hutong itinerary.
• Typical Walking/Cycling Route Suggestions:
  • Shijia Hutong Museum → Longfu Art Museum → Hengchang Ruiji → Dongsi Hutong Museum → Former Site of Duan Qirui’s Executive Government → Along the way small shops;
  • Yonghegong → Wudaoying Hutong → Guozijian → Beixinqiao → Dongsi Sitiao → Dongsi Hutong Museum → Longfu Building;
  • Dongsi Metro Station → Hutong small bookstores and bakeries → Deep hutong museums → Longfusi area → Extend to Guozijian, Yonghegong, Wudaoying, etc.

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Practical Tips

1. Time and Rhythm

• Autumn Light: From late October to early November, the golden hours for photographing yellow leaves and hutong shadows are between 10:00–16:00 on clear, transparent days. For backlit portraits, aim for 14:00–16:00; have the subject stand under trees or among fallen leaves to highlight hair strands and contours.
• Winter Warmth: From the lunar December to around the Spring Festival, it’s best to go out from noon to afternoon, avoiding the cold winds of early morning and night. Visitors from southern China should especially pay attention to wind protection, using layered clothing rather than one thick coat for easy adjustment indoors and outdoors.
• Summer Heat Avoidance: Try to explore hutongs in the morning or evening; at noon, seek refuge in bookstores, cafes, or museums, and rest in the shade of ancient trees and courtyards.

2. Clothing and Gear

• Shoes: Be sure to wear comfortable sneakers or canvas shoes. The Dongsi area involves a lot of walking, with deep routes often reaching 10,000–15,000 steps per day.
• Clothing:
  • Autumn and winter: windproof jacket + sweater/hoodie + base layers, layered dressing;
  • In winter, hats, scarves, and gloves are recommended as the wind tunnel effect in hutongs makes it feel colder than the forecast.
• Backpack: A small backpack or crossbody bag is most practical, convenient for buying items at bakeries, bookstores, and creative shops without interfering with photography or cycling.
• Electronics: A phone plus a power bank is usually enough. If bringing a camera, opt for a lightweight body with a wide-angle lens since hutong spaces are narrow; wide-angle better captures depth and atmosphere.

3. Tips to Avoid Crowds

• Time Staggering:
  • On weekends and holidays, queues at Longfusi Temple, popular bakeries, and snack shops are obvious. Choose weekdays or Friday afternoons to visit Dongsi;
  • For a quiet visit to the Dongsi Hutong Museum or Shijia Hutong Museum, try to go on a weekday during the day.
• Space Staggering:
  • When Nanluoguxiang and Wudaoying Hutong are crowded, switch to less popular areas like Xinsi Hutong, Xiguan Hutong, Qinglong Hutong, or the rear section of Dongsi Liu Tiao for better photos and more tranquility.

4. Photography and Composition Suggestions

• Yellow Leaf Season:
  • Shoot upward at the canopy + blue sky, using branches to naturally form heart shapes;
  • Have the subject stand in piles of fallen leaves, shoot from a low angle to emphasize layers and atmosphere;
  • Toss leaves and shoot in burst mode, then pick the most natural shot.
• Hutong Architecture:
  • Use door arches, screen walls, and drum stones as foregrounds, with the subject standing inside or beside the door to create depth;
  • When photographing door arch brick carvings, use the phone’s 0.5x wide-angle close-up for richer detail.
• City Skyline:
  • Stand centered under the caisson ceiling at Longfusi Temple and shoot upward for symmetrical composition;
  • On the ninth-floor rooftop of Longfusi Temple, when shooting China Zun Tower + red walls, use a wide-angle lens to include more foreground rooftops and distant skyscrapers.

5. Safety and Etiquette

• Respect Residents’ Lives: Most courtyards in Dongsi are private homes or shared residences, and many celebrity former residences are not open to the public. Do not push open doors to enter courtyards or shoot long at residents’ windows. Keep your voice low to avoid disturbance.
• Traffic Safety: Some motor vehicles and electric bikes pass through hutongs. Do not stand in the middle of the road for long periods when photographing or chatting, especially at corners—watch for oncoming traffic.
• In-Store Photography Rules: Some cafes and bakeries (like Wuwen Xidong) require customers to order before taking photos inside. It’s best to order first and then shoot, respecting the shop’s rules.
• Winter Road Conditions: After snow or ice, hutong stone pavements can be slippery. Avoid smooth-soled leather shoes or heavily worn soles, and slow your pace if necessary.

6. Saving Money and Useful Tools

• Transportation Savings: Use the subway + walking/shared bikes to cover most Dongsi and nearby attractions. Taxis are generally unnecessary, saving money and offering flexibility.
• Dining Options: Dongsi offers both affordable old-brand eateries (traditional breakfast, snacks) and pricier trendy bakeries and cafes. You can mix and match on the same street to experience different dining styles in one day.
• Route Planning Apps:
  • Amap’s “City Walk List”: Choose recommended city walk routes directly, no need for detailed planning, and create “My List” to record your Dongsi routes;
  • Zhibei Travel App: Supports one-click import of Xiaohongshu note links to generate itineraries, automatically recommending photo spots and transport;
  • Yuan Zhou Travel: Great for planning walking routes and recording tracks, marking food and shopping memories for easy review later.

7. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overdoing Check-ins: Dongsi’s shops and attractions are dense; don’t force yourself to visit every single one, which can lead to fatigue and diminished experience. It’s better to “wander into shops that catch your eye” and spend more time at each stop.
• Ignoring Opening Hours: Dongsi Hutong Museum and Shijia Hutong Museum have closed days and lunch breaks. Always check opening hours before you go to avoid wasted trips.
• Overhyping Trendy Snacks: Some elaborately styled creative pastries (like certain themed cakes) often look better than they taste. Try a small amount or buy as souvenirs rather than bulk purchases.
• Winter Temperature Differences: Beijing’s winter has a large indoor-outdoor temperature gap. Subways, cafes, and malls are generally warm. Don’t wear just one thick coat and tough it out—it can cause sweating and catching cold. Layered dressing is healthier.

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Nearby Food and Coffee

1. Old Beijing Flavors and Snacks

• Zengshengkui Snack Shop

  • Type: Traditional Old Beijing breakfast and snacks (mainly douzhi, jiaoquan, fried cakes, shaobing, etc.).
  • Average cost: about ¥20–30 (~$3–4 USD).
  • Location: Near Dongsi South Street / Dongsi, a popular starting point for locals and tourists to enjoy authentic Old Beijing breakfast.

• Baoruimen Mending Meat Pie (around East 46th Alley East Entrance and Dongsi Street)

  • Signature: Mending Meat Pie ¥7 each, large size, crispy crust with plenty of filling, juicy when bitten; pairs well with lamb soup.
  • Average cost: about ¥25–35 (~$4–5 USD).
  • Feature: A nearly universally known brand of Mending Meat Pie among Beijingers, suitable as a main meal for lunch or dinner.

• Longfusi Snack Shop (inside Longfusi cultural street area)

  • Signature: Miancha (wheat flour tea), fried cakes, and other traditional snacks.
  • Average cost: about ¥20 (~$3 USD).
  • Scene: A perfect stop for a warm bowl of miancha or a fried cake while exploring the Longfusi cultural street area to recharge.

• Beixinqiao Lu Zhu Old Shop (Beixinqiao Street, extending north from Dongsi North Street)

  • Signature: Lu Zhu Huoshao (braised pork intestines, lungs, tofu, and baked bread stewed together), with a strong flavor.
  • Average cost: about ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD).
  • Suitable for: Foodies wanting to experience the “hardcore Old Beijing taste.”

• Fengnian Guanchang (Yonghegong Street)

  • Signature: Fried sausage, douzhi (fermented mung bean juice), jiaoquan, donkey roll, fried rice cake, pea jelly, and other Beijing-style snacks.
  • Average cost: about ¥30–40 (~$4–6 USD).
  • Location: Along the Beixinqiao—Yonghegong line, good as a snack stop for an extended route.

• Yin San Douzhi (Dongsi—Andingmen line)

  • Signature: Douzhi and other traditional fermented drinks.
  • Average cost: about ¥20–30 (~$3–4 USD).
  • Suitable for: Visitors interested in Old Beijing flavors and willing to try something adventurous.

2. Bakeries and Dessert Shops

• Hongxing Qianjin Bread & Milk Company (Dongsi North Street store & Longfusi store)

  • Signature: Fresh hand-beaten milk 240g for ¥5.9, self-beating milk available; freshly baked bread and toast stamped with the date.
  • Promotion: Any purchase + Dianping check-in may get you cute panda woven bags and other freebies during events.
  • Average cost: about ¥20–30 (~$3–4 USD).
  • Feature: Retro style with a fresh milk theme, a popular supply stop on Dongsi North Street and Longfusi area.

• Hongxing Qianjin Fresh Milk Cake Shop (along Dongsi Street)

  • Signature: Fresh milk cakes (pure white cream style), classic taste; drinks are average.
  • Average cost: about ¥30 (~$4.5 USD).
  • Suitable for: Dessert lovers who prefer traditional cream cakes.

• Honghua Pastry Bureau (near Zhang Zizhong Road on Dongsi North Street)

  • Signature: Queen rolls, butterfly pastries, and other exquisite sweets.
  • Price: Some travel notes mention “4 breads for ¥68.”
  • Average cost: about ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD).
  • Feature: Great for afternoon tea or gifts, combining beauty and taste.

• 24 Bakers (near Zhang Zizhong Road on Dongsi North Street)

  • Signature: Porcini mushroom ciabatta ¥17, savory with layers of flavor; overall Korean-style bread.
  • Average cost: about ¥30–50 (~$4.5–7.5 USD).
  • Feature: The shop environment is photogenic, perfect for a quick energy boost while shopping.

• Bajiaoer Bread (near Beixinqiao)

  • Signature: Yellow cheese mammoth bagel ¥36, pepper pork jerky purple sweet potato cheese sourdough bread ¥26, and Biluochun alkaline water bread highly recommended by many travel notes.
  • Average cost: about ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD).
  • Feature: Highly creative flavors, ideal for bread lovers making a special stop.

• Xinqiao Sanbao Le Bakery (Beixinqiao store)

  • Signature: Honey crispy bread, pork floss bread, bean paste bread, and other classics.
  • Average cost: about ¥20–30 (~$3–4 USD).
  • Location: Beixinqiao, northern extension of Dongsi North Street, good as a “takeaway snack stop” before heading back.

• Daoxiangcun Zero Store (Dongsi North Street)

  • Signature: Master and apprentice four-piece set, Temple of Heaven, Jade Cabbage, Imperial cakes, and other themed pastries; Erba sauce ice cream (sesame paste flavor).
  • Average cost: about ¥30–60 (~$4.5–9 USD).
  • Feature: Exquisitely shaped, great for photos and gifts; taste reviews lean toward “appearance over flavor,” recommended to try in small amounts.

• Meitan Village Pastry Shop (near Beixinqiao / Guijie area)

  • Signature: Daigu / Matcha / Rose Mulberry Cheese Crisps, black glutinous rice matcha cheese, almond tofu, etc.
  • Average cost: about ¥30–50 (~$4.5–7.5 USD).
  • Feature: Often has queues, perfect for dessert lovers making a special trip.

3. Cafés and Light Meals

• HERE / HERE there (Dongsi North Street)

  • Format: Korean-style clothing store on the first floor, café and desserts on the second.
  • Average cost: about ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD).
  • Feature: The three chairs and large window at the entrance are among the most classic photo spots on Dongsi North Street, perfect for sipping coffee while watching the street scene.

• Fugeer Cafe (near Longfusi on Dongsi North Street)

  • Signature: Coffee + simple meals, with mushroom black garlic rice highly recommended in many travel notes; burgers and snacks also well praised.
  • Average cost: about ¥60–80 (~$9–12 USD).
  • Atmosphere: Chill window sill at the entrance, with Christmas or New Year decorations during holidays.

• Wu Wen Xi Dong (Dongsi North Street)

  • Format: Coffee + cocktails, strong nighttime vibe.
  • Average cost: about ¥80–120 (~$12–18 USD) including drinks.
  • Feature: Rich floral decorations on the facade, rooftop terrace overlooking Dongsi Street, popular for evening drinks and photos.

• Songqu (inside Dongsi Hutong)

  • Feature: Surrounded by greenery, with a courtyard in the middle where sunlight pours in, creating beautiful light and shadow.
  • Average cost: about ¥50–70 (~$7.5–10.5 USD).
  • Suitable for: Those wanting to enjoy coffee quietly in a courtyard and experience hutong light and shadow.

• Shanhai Sihe (inside hutongs near Dongsi)

  • Format: Coffee + light meals.
  • Feature: Large street-facing windows ideal for people-watching and daydreaming, a typical “hutong coffee space.”
  • Average cost: about ¥60–80 (~$9–12 USD).

• Paper Sound Bookstore Cafe (Dongsi North Street)

  • Format: Bookstore + café, suitable for reading and studying.
  • Average cost: about ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD).
  • Feature: Quiet and comfortable, often frequented by cats.

• Maybe There’s Books Cafe (Dongsi North Street)

  • Format: Bookstore + café + bun shop, with cats and a terrace.
  • Average cost: about ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD).
  • Feature: Many people spend entire afternoons here; an ideal sample space for “living in Beijing for a while.”

• Qie Man CAFE (near Zhang Zizhong Road on Dongsi North Street)

  • Signature: “Xinhua Dictionary” shaped cake, actually a jasmine-flavored layered cake, not too sweet; paired with various coffee drinks.
  • Average cost: about ¥50–70 (~$7.5–10.5 USD).
  • Feature: Strong cultural and creative vibe, great for photos and slow tasting.

• JM Cafe (Dongsi area)

  • Feature: Industrial style decor, second-floor open-air balcony perfect for photos.
  • Average cost: about ¥50–70 (~$7.5–10.5 USD).
  • Scene: Good as a rest stop in the afternoon or for a casual evening drink.

• CALL ME PANDA (near the end of Dongsi North Street)

  • Format: Cat-themed miscellaneous goods + beverage shop.
  • Average cost: about ¥30–50 (~$4.5–7.5 USD).
  • Feature: Has big cats and a photo window sill, perfect for cat lovers and couples to relax.

4. Full Meals and Local Cuisine

• Pangmei Noodle House (Xiang’er Hutong / Longfusi entrance)

  • Signature: Pea and minced meat noodles, ice jelly, and other Sichuan-style noodle dishes.
  • Average cost: about ¥30–40 (~$4.5–6 USD).
  • Feature: May have queues even off-peak, a cost-effective choice for a full meal.

• Liu Zhizi BBQ / Dahuaishu BBQ Restaurant (Dongsi area)

  • Type: Grilled meat skewers, BBQ.
  • Average cost: about ¥80–120 (~$12–18 USD).
  • Suitable for: Small groups of friends dining together to experience Beijing-style BBQ.

• Heyan Meat Pie (along Dongsi Street)

  • Signature: Various meat pies, fast service, suitable for a quick meal.
  • Average cost: about ¥30–40 (~$4.5–6 USD).
  • Scene: Popular weekday lunch spot for families and office workers.

• Xinhe Small Restaurant (Yonghegong Street)

  • Signature: Dalu noodles praised as “Beijing’s top 1” in many travel notes; sweet and sour pork, three-flavor potstickers, and spicy triple combo also well received.
  • Average cost: about ¥60–80 (~$9–12 USD).
  • Feature: Often crowded, good to visit when extending your Dongsi itinerary northward.

• Lanyuezhai Grilled Meat (Dongsi—Andingmen line)

  • Type: Grilled meat skewers, BBQ.
  • Average cost: about ¥80–120 (~$12–18 USD).
  • Suitable for: Dinner gatherings or late-night snacks.

• Jingyou Handmade Burgers (stores around Dongsi)

  • Type: Handmade burger shop, winner of burger festival championship.
  • Average cost: about ¥60–80 (~$9–12 USD).
  • Feature: Ideal for visitors wanting to fit a Western fast-food meal into their hutong itinerary.

5. Dairy Products and Souvenirs

• Convenient Milk Station / Milk Convenience (near Beixinqiao)

  • Signature: Gan Yan yogurt balls ¥15, milk skin yogurt, etc., with rich dairy flavor.
  • Average cost: about ¥15–25 (~$2–4 USD).
  • Suitable for: Road snacks or late-night treats to take back to the hotel.

• Sanyuan Meiyuan (near Guozijian Street)

  • Signature: Double-skin milk, cheese, milk rolls, and other dairy desserts.
  • Average cost: about ¥25–35 (~$4–5 USD).
  • Location: Guozijian Street, often combined with Yonghegong, Wudaoying, and Dongsi North Street for a dessert route.

• Chabingzhai (north section of Yonghegong Street)

  • Signature: Pistachio milk cake ¥29.9, jasmine Mao Feng cheese cake ¥6, taro mud pastry, Longjing pastry, pumpkin crisp sticks, ox tongue pastry, etc.
  • Average cost: about ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD).
  • Feature: Great as souvenirs to bring home.

• Tongrisheng Grain Store (Yonghegong Street)

  • Signature: Erba sauce ¥20 per bottle, cold-pressed sesame oil, black sesame paste, etc.
  • Average cost: about ¥20–50 (~$3–7.5 USD).
  • Suitable for: Buying Beijing-style seasonings and grain/oil souvenirs.

6. Street Snacks Along the Extended Route

• Yonghe Fried Chicken Shaobing (Yonghegong Street / extension of Dongsi North Street)

  • Signature: Large chicken leg, crispy outside and tender inside, shaobing sandwich with chicken leg; Pipa chicken leg ¥5 each, slightly juicy.
  • Average cost: about ¥20–30 (~$3–4.5 USD).
  • Scene: Perfect street snack for nibbling while walking south from Yonghegong to Dongsi.

• Ma San Potato Chips (Yonghegong Street)

  • Signature: Potato chips and tofu skin combo, snacks, apricot skin water, mainly spicy flavors.
  • Average cost: about ¥20–30 (~$3–4.5 USD).
  • Feature: Great for spice lovers to satisfy cravings while strolling.

• Xiaoshi Tangji (near Dongsi Street)

  • Type: Dessert shop specializing in various small sweets.
  • Average cost: about ¥30–40 (~$4.5–6 USD).
  • Scene: Suitable as afternoon tea or post-meal dessert.

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Accommodation Recommendations and Location Suggestions

1. Overall Advantages of the Area

The Dongsi Hutong (东四胡同) area is located in the heart of Beijing’s 2nd Ring Road, about 2 kilometers from major attractions such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Wangfujing (王府井), Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷), Yonghegong (雍和宫), and Guozijian (国子监). Surrounded by Metro Lines 5, 6, 8, and 2, it is an ideal base for old city citywalks and multi-day in-depth tours. Accommodation options range from traditional siheyuan (四合院) homestays to modern boutique hotels, allowing flexible choices based on budget and preferences.

2. Siheyuan Homestays and Small Hotels within the Hutongs

1. Dongsi Hutong Siheyuan Homestays (Multiple Locations)

• Location: Mostly concentrated between Dongsi 2nd Alley and Dongsi 6th Alley, some tucked deep inside the hutongs, offering a quiet retreat amidst the bustle.
• Room Types and Features:
  • Mainly small one- or two-courtyard siheyuan, with rooms arranged around a small courtyard;
  • Decor often combines traditional Chinese and modern styles, featuring wooden lattice windows, gray brick walls, modern bathrooms, and underfloor heating;
  • Travel notes mention “located in Dongsi Hutong, Dongcheng District, Beijing-style siheyuan, spacious with large floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy snow views / around ¥300 (~$43 USD),” reflecting good value during off-season or with early booking.
• Suitable For: Artistic young travelers, small families, or couples who want an immersive hutong living experience and enjoy morning strolls right outside their door.

2. Dongsi Hutong Siheyuan Hotels (Family/Parent-Friendly)

• Typical Experience: Some authors have stayed with parents in siheyuan hotels located inside Dongsi Hutong:
  • Right outside are Dongsi and Zhangzizhong Road metro stations;
  • Walking distance to Nanluoguxiang, Wangfujing, and Jingshan Park;
  • About 2 km from the Forbidden City, Tiananmen, Yonghegong, and Guozijian;
  • Courtyards are elegant and quiet;
  • Rooms blend Chinese and modern styles, with large comfortable beds, small foyers, mini bars, and air purifiers;
  • Bathrooms have wet/dry separation, with earplugs, fruit plates, and welcome cocktails provided;
  • 24-hour butler service available.
• Price Range: Usually ¥600–1000 per night ($85–$140 USD), averaging about ¥270–300 per person ($38–$43 USD).
• Suitable For: Traveling with parents, family trips, or stays for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays that require a sense of ceremony.

3. Long-Term/Slow Travel: Hutong Bungalow Loft Experience

• Rental cases mention bungalow lofts inside Dongsi 4th Alley Hutong:
  • Monthly rent about ¥5000 (~$700 USD), no agency fees;
  • Private bathroom, kitchen facilities, and a first-floor sofa that can serve as a “mini cinema”;
  • Utilities are metered individually; electric heating runs half a day to maintain indoor temperature above 20°C (68°F) around the clock;
  • 5-minute walk to Metro Line 5, 7 minutes to Line 6 (Dongsi Station 东四站);
  • Opposite the street is the Longfusi commercial area, with breakfast shops and famous steamed bun stores at the hutong entrance;
  • Dongsi Police Station is on the same alley, providing a strong sense of security.
• Although a long-term rental example, it well illustrates daily life “living in Dongsi”: buying red bean sesame cakes in the morning, reading in hutong cafes at night, and weekend bike rides to Yonghegong or Ditan Park. This type of accommodation and price range is a good reference for visitors planning to stay in Beijing for a month or doing slow travel.

4. Recommended Areas by Price Range

1. High-End (Above ¥800 per night)

• Recommended Area: Dongsi South Street—Nanxincang—China Art Museum vicinity.
• Hotel Types: Mainly four-star and above business hotels and design boutique hotels, some with gyms, pools, executive lounges, and other amenities.
• Advantages:
  • Close to Nanxincang business district, China Art Museum, and Wangfujing;
  • Easy access to Dongsi Station by walking or one metro stop, convenient for travel;
  • Relatively quiet at night, suitable for travelers combining business and leisure.

2. Mid-Range (¥400–800 per night)

• Recommended Area 1: Inside Dongsi Hutong Siheyuan Hotels/Homestays

  • Pros: Immersive hutong living experience, doorstep access to hutong citywalk routes;
  • Suitable for: Artistic youth, couples, small families who want to blend more “local life” into their stay.

• Recommended Area 2: Zhangzizhong Road—Dongsi North Street Business Hotels

  • Pros:
    • Close to Metro Line 5 Zhangzizhong Road Station or Dongsi Station, convenient for visiting Yonghegong, Guozijian, Nanluoguxiang, and the Forbidden City;
    • Extremely rich dining options nearby, including Luhui, Honghua Dim Sum Bureau, Hongxing Qianjin, Daoxiangcun No. 0 Store, various cafes, and snack shops within walking distance.
  • Suitable for: Travelers who prioritize transportation and dining convenience, want clean and comfortable accommodations with moderate style requirements.

3. Budget (¥200–400 per night)

• Recommended Area: Slightly north of Dongsi North Street (near Beixinqiao), and slightly east of Chaoyangmen Inner Street.
• Hotel Types: Chain budget hotels, youth hostels, small apartment-style hotels, etc.
• Advantages:
  • More affordable prices, suitable for students, backpackers, or families on a budget;
  • Walking or one metro stop to the Dongsi Hutong area;
  • Plenty of nighttime dining options, with the chance to experience the nightlife culture of Guijie and Beixinqiao areas.

5. Booking and Location Tips

• Booking Channels: Many authors mention that booking Beijing hotels on online platforms like Qunar (去哪儿旅行) usually offers better prices. It is recommended to secure accommodations 1–2 weeks in advance, and even earlier for holidays like National Day or Chinese New Year.
• Location Principles:
  • If Dongsi Hutong is your core sightseeing area, prioritize accommodations within a 10-minute walk of Dongsi Station or Zhangzizhong Road Station;
  • If you plan to frequently visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen, Wangfujing, and Nanluoguxiang, look for a compromise location between Dongsi and Wangfujing or between Dongsi and Nanluoguxiang;
  • If you value nighttime quiet and business amenities, choose mid-to-high-end hotels near Nanxincang or the China Art Museum, taking the metro two stops to Dongsi citywalk during the day and returning to the hotel for rest at night.
• Check-in Tips:
  • Many siheyuan homestays inside hutongs are renovated old houses, so soundproofing and insulation may be inferior to modern hotels. In winter, inquire in advance about heating methods and schedules;
  • When choosing homestays deep inside hutongs, confirm luggage drag distances and nighttime lighting. Families with elderly members or large luggage should prioritize hotels closer to main streets or metro entrances.

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Sample One-Day Itinerary (In-Depth Citywalk Version)

Suitable for first-time visitors to Dongsi (东四) who want to balance hutong history, gatehouse architecture, bookstores and cafes, and the urban renewal of Longfusi (隆福寺). The route is mainly on foot, with occasional use of metro/shared bikes, and is expected to take 6–8 hours.

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08:30–09:00 Arrival and Breakfast

• How to arrive: Take Metro Line 5 to Dengshikou Station Exit A (灯市口站A口).
• Walk: Walk a few minutes along the way into the Shijia Hutong area, soaking in the quiet morning atmosphere of the hutongs.
• Breakfast suggestion: Have a simple meal at a traditional breakfast shop around Dongsi South Street (东四南大街) to fuel up for the long walk ahead (specific shops can be found in the food section).

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09:00–10:30 Shijia Hutong Museum and Hutong Stroll

• Shijia Hutong Museum (No. 24 Shijia Hutong):
  • Spend about 1 hour learning the historical background of "One Hutong, Half of China," viewing 130 miniature courtyard models, and familiarizing yourself with hutong spatial structure and daily life scenes;
  • If you catch the fixed guided tour times (Tue–Fri 14:30, weekends 10:30/14:30), you can adjust your schedule to join a systematic explanation.
• Hutong stroll:
  • After the museum, slowly walk west along Shijia Hutong, paying attention to house numbers and courtyard layouts;
  • At the west end of the hutong, connect to Dongsi South Street and experience the transition from quiet hutong to old commercial street.

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10:30–12:30 Dongsi Fourth Alley: Gatehouses, Museum, and Siheyuan

• Turn from Dongsi South Street into the west entrance of Dongsi Fourth Alley (东四四条西口):
  • First, admire the façade of Hengchang Ruiji (No. 86) outside the west entrance, feeling the old foreign goods store with red railings and green pillars;
  • Walk eastward, passing by Mianyi Residence (Nos. 1/3/5), the legendary “official dormitory” of Ji Xiaolan (No. 31), and other high-grade courtyard gatehouses.
• Visit Dongsi Hutong Museum (No. 77):
  • Allocate about 1 hour to visit the main gate, screen wall, hanging flower gate, main house, and other spaces in order;
  • Watch the documentary The Golden Age of Beijing Hutongs in the screening room to systematically understand the history and famous stories of Dongsi hutongs;
  • Take some photos at the “Impression Tile House” installation and under the old locust tree in the courtyard.
• Deep hutong stroll:
  • After the museum, continue eastward, viewing the Old Site of Baoquan Bureau East Workshop (No. 83) and the imposing gatehouse of No. 85 courtyard, including drum stones;
  • If time permits, extend slightly toward Dongsi Sixth Alley to get a distant view of the Chongli Residence’s outer wall and the Ruyi Gate brick carvings.

Around 12:00, you can find a small restaurant or traditional snack shop near Dongsi Fourth Alley or Dongsi Sixth Alley for lunch, trying door-studded meat pies, home-style dishes, etc. (specific shops can be found in the food section).

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12:30–14:30 Dongsi North Street: Bookstores and Cafe Break

• Head to Dongsi North Street:
  • Exit the hutong from the north entrance of Dongsi Fourth Alley, and within minutes arrive at Dongsi North Street;
  • If you’re tired, grab a shared bike nearby and slowly ride north along Dongsi North Street.
• Bookstore check-in:
  • Pass by literary spaces like Paper Sound Bookstore (纸上声音书店) and Maybe Have Books (可能有书), and choose one to enter:
    • On the second floor of Paper Sound, order a coffee, flip through some books, and pet the cats;
    • Or sit for a while on the terrace of Maybe Have Books, enjoying the blend of hutong and street views.
• Cafe and bakery refreshments:
  • For photos, shoot a street-style set in front of the three chairs at HERE / HERE there;
  • For snacks, pick one or two from Luhui, Honghua Dim Sum Bureau, or 24 Bakers to buy bread or desserts for afternoon tea.

This part of the itinerary is “go with the flow” — no need to force yourself to visit every shop. Just open the door when a storefront catches your eye; it’s the best way to feel the life vibe of Dongsi.

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14:30–16:30 Extended Hutongs and Seasonal Photography (Focus on Autumn)

• Autumn recommendation:
  • If visiting in October–November, start from Zhangzizhong Road Station Exit D (张自忠路站D口) and take a special walk through Xinsi Hutong → Xiguan Hutong → Qinglong Hutong:
    • Look up and photograph the “Golden Umbrella” of the big white wax tree in front of No. 30 Xinsi Hutong;
    • Stroll slowly along the yellow-leaf avenue in front of No. 12 Xinsi Hutong, listening to the rustling fallen leaves;
    • Capture the classic composition of “red door + yellow leaves” beside Tian Han’s former residence in Xiguan Hutong;
    • Catch the light and shadow of the wax trees falling on gray walls in Qinglong Hutong.
• If not autumn or limited energy:
  • Choose to rest at Yuanyi Yi (园艺驿) on Dongsi Sixth Alley, order a tea or coffee, and relax in the flower shop and small upstairs space;
  • Or simply check in at the former residences of Ye Shengtao (叶圣陶故居) or Zhu Qiqian (朱启钤故居) on Dongsi Eighth Alley, feeling the gatehouse atmosphere of literary figures’ homes.

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16:30–18:30 Longfusi Cultural District and Nine-Story Rooftop Sunset

• Head to Longfusi (隆福寺):
  • Walk or bike south from Dongsi North Street, passing by the exterior of Nanxincang and the former government office of Duan Qirui;
  • Enter the Longfusi Cultural District near Metro Dongsi Station Exits C/E (东四站C/E口).
• Longfusi ground space:
  • Look up and photograph a symmetrical composition under the Longfusi Caijing (藻井) ceiling;
  • Pass through the Longfusi Archway (牌楼) and take some portraits in front of the red walls and black tiles;
  • Wander around the plaza visiting creative shops, chocolate shops, and bakeries, feeling the vitality of “old neighborhood renewal.”
• Longfusi Art Museum and Nine-Story Rooftop:
  • Take the elevator to the 9th floor of the Longfu Cultural Center, and decide whether to buy tickets based on the current exhibition;
  • Reserve about 1 hour to view the exhibition and wait for sunset on the rooftop platform:
    • Shoot eastward views of China Zun and the Guomao CBD skyline;
    • Shoot westward silhouettes of Jingshan Wanchun Pavilion and Beihai White Pagoda;
    • If visiting during the winter “Benfu New Year” event, after dark enjoy the panoramic view of lights and New Year decorations.

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18:30–20:00 Dinner and Return

• Dinner options:
  • If you want to stay in Dongsi, choose a favorite small restaurant or barbecue place around Longfusi or Dongsi North Street;
  • If you still have energy, take the metro to Beixinqiao or Yonghegong areas to experience a more “hardcore” Beijing-flavored dinner at Xinhe Xiaoguan or the old Beixinqiao Lu Zhu restaurant.
• Return:
  • Take Metro Line 5 or 6 from Dongsi Station (东四站) or Zhangzizhong Road Station (张自忠路站) back to your accommodation;
  • If staying in a siheyuan hotel inside the Dongsi hutongs, you can walk back directly and end your citywalk in the hutong night atmosphere.

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Half-Day Simplified Versions (For Tight Schedules)

• Morning version (history and culture focus):

  • Dengshikou Station Exit A → Shijia Hutong Museum → Neiwubu Hutong stroll → Dongsi Fourth Alley (Dongsi Hutong Museum + Hengchang Ruiji façade) → Lunch near Dongsi South Street or Dongsi Sixth Alley → Metro return.

• Afternoon version (shopping, eating, and arts focus):

  • Dongsi Station Exit D → Dongsi North Street bookstores and cafes (Paper Sound, Maybe Have Books, HERE, etc.) → Bakeries and dim sum shops near Zhangzizhong Road → Evening at Longfusi Cultural District → Nine-Story Rooftop sunset → Dinner and metro return.

With this itinerary, you can complete a full experience of “hutong history — gatehouse architecture — bookstores and cafes — urban renewal — night rooftop views” in one day, forming a vivid and profound impression of the Dongsi hutong area.