[2025 Beijing Attraction] Travel Guide for Houhai Park (Updated Apr)

Every time I go for a city walk, I adopt a fresh perspective about something I would have otherwise taken for granted. Randomness is exciting," she said. "Walking is just so accessible. All you need to do is leave your doorstep and start exploring." Roam aimlessly on the streets of the city all by yourself, and use rock-paper-scissors to decide whether to turn left or right at crossroads, If you see a green light, go straight; if you see a red light, turn. You might come across a shop with awesome food or a coffee place hidden at the end of an alleyway. It's like opening a mystery box. You never know what surprise is in store.

Going to the capital city would never be complete, without the experience of tasting the famous Peking duck (烤鸭肉). Here the meat is perfectly cooked, mainly the skin that is thin and crispy. For the most part traditionally, it is served with more skin than meat. There are lot of stories about the origin timeline; some say it is during the Ming dynasty that the imperial capital is moved from Nanjing to Beijing along which the cuisine also moved to the North and the duck 🦆 remains there ever since. But some say, it is the Mongols👺 that brought this cuisine as it is more of roasting. One thing for sure is, the Peking duck has long history and I was too proud to eat a food🍜 that has royal linkage. #beijingtrip #urbanexplorer #urbanexplorer#tripfoodie

What a beautiful walk around this lake at Houhai! It was frozen and the people were ice skating on it! The view was beautiful and it was such a peaceful walk. We even saw some people going for a swim in the lake 😱 #merrychristmas #whitechristmas #merrychristmas

| Shichahai Drum Tower | Spring is Coming. The weekend brought clear skies and strong winds. The wind tore clouds into small cotton-like wisps The sky was as blue as frozen glazed glass The gusts blew right through to people's bones. Through a telephoto lens The golden edges of China Zun's steel frame glisten The steel towers of China World Trade Center and hutong's gray tiles Find subtle harmony in the viewfinder. Spring is coming Let warmth arrive soon. 📍 Sugar House Coffee 📍 Gulou Park 📍 Gulou Street

Tucked away from the chaos of Beijing’s fast pace lies Shichahai (什刹海)—a hidden world of canals, temples, and slow afternoons that feels like stepping into a scroll painting. 🎐 Start your journey at Houhai Lake, where locals glide across the water in electric boats and sunlight dances on the ripples. Willow trees lean into the reflections, and every breeze feels like a sigh from the past. Stroll along the edges of the water through traditional hutongs and stone walkways. People sip tea in lakeside cafés, dry their clothes in the sun, and play cards in the shade. The charm of daily life in Beijing feels timeless here. Wander into the vibrant Huoshen Temple (火神庙)—yes, it's still active—and you’ll be surrounded by red lanterns, incense smoke, and crowds offering prayers. It’s chaotic in the most soulful way. Whether you’re after peaceful views, a hit of local culture, or just a place to soak up the sun and nostalgia, Shichahai is that underrated slice of Beijing that steals your heart without trying. 📸 All photos shot on film—because some places deserve to be remembered slowly. #discoverchina #hutong #china #temple #oldtown #beijing

Nestled in the heart of Beijing, Houhai Lake is a scenic and vibrant destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern leisure. Part of the famous Shichahai lake system, Houhai is surrounded by traditional hutongs (ancient alleyways), charming courtyard homes, and lively bars and restaurants, making it a must-visit spot for travelers. By day, visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the tree-lined lake, rent a pedal boat, or explore the surrounding hutongs on a rickshaw. The area is rich in history, once being the backyard of royal families and high-ranking officials during the Yuan Dynasty. Nearby landmarks include the former residence of Song Qingling and the Drum and Bell Towers, offering a glimpse into old Beijing. As night falls, Houhai transforms into one of Beijing’s most popular nightlife districts, with a lively atmosphere filled with live music bars, teahouses, and cozy restaurants offering beautiful lake views. The reflection of neon lights on the water creates a magical setting for an unforgettable evening. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil escape, a cultural adventure, or a fun night out, Houhai Lake is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Beijing’s past and present. #travelinginchina

Hey everyone! Here's your in-depth guide to a five-day Beijing adventure. This one's all you need to explore the capital—save it now so you don't get lost! / 🎉Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Beijing and enjoy our 24-hour car service from the airport or train station to your hotel. After settling in, feel free to explore at your own pace! Day 2: Visit Tiananmen Square—explore the National Museum of China—tour the Palace Museum and the Hall of Supreme Harmony—stroll through Houhai Park—wander down Qianmen Street and experience old Beijing's charm. Day 3: Climb the Badaling Great Wall and marvel at its majesty—head to the Olympic Park and experience the Olympic spirit combined with modern architecture. Day 4: Explore the Summer Palace and Kunming Lake, appreciating the beauty of classical gardens—visit the ruins of Yuanmingyuan and reflect on history—explore Tsinghua University and soak in the academic atmosphere—finally, visit the Temple of Heaven and experience the unique charm of ancient imperial sacrificial culture. Day 5: Sleep in, enjoy a delicious breakfast when you wake up, and then enjoy a full day of free time to explore Beijing's charm. End your pleasant journey with a car service back to the airport or train station for your flight or train home, filled with wonderful memories! / Recommended Attractions: 🌟 The Palace Museum 🌟🌟 Address: 4 Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing Opening Hours: Nov 1, 2024–Mar 31, 2025 Tuesday–Sunday 08:30–16:30 Visit Duration: 1 day A magnificent museum of ancient architecture, strolling through it is like traveling through time, experiencing the weight of history. 🌟 Badaling Great Wall 🌟🌟 Address: Exit 58, G6 Jingzang Expressway, Yanqing District, Beijing Opening Hours: Feb 18–Mar 31 07:30–16:00 Visit Duration: 3–4 hrs A combination of towering cliffs and lush greenery. Ascend the Great Wall and experience thousands of years of history and natural splendor. 🌟 National Museum of China 🌟🌟 Address: 16 East Chang'an Avenue, Dongcheng District, Beijing Opening Hours: Feb 5–Dec 31 Tuesday–Sunday 09:00–17:00 Visit Duration: 1 day A temple of Chinese history, culture, and art, with a rich collection and diverse exhibitions. It's a great place to learn about Chinese history and culture. 🌟 Temple of Heaven 🌟🌟 Address: 1 Tiantan Dongli Jia, Dongcheng District, Beijing Opening Hours: Nov 1, 2024–Mar 31, 2025 06:30–22:00 Visit Duration: 2–4 hrs The sacred place where Ming and Qing emperors performed rituals to Heaven and prayed for good harvests. Experience the solemnity and mystery of ancient imperial sacrificial culture. / Essential Travel Tips: - Food: Peking duck is a must-try, along with other local specialties like *zhajiangmian* (noodles with soybean paste) and *douzhi* (fermented mung bean milk) 🍜. - March Weather: Early spring, the temperature is moderate but cooler in the mornings and evenings, so remember to bring a light jacket 🧥. - Local Customs: Explore the *hutongs* (alleyways) to experience the charm of old Beijing, and interacting with locals adds to the fun of your trip 👥. / Don't miss out on these amazing experiences in Beijing! Follow my guide, explore the capital, and enjoy a wonderful journey!

😀 Lantern festival in Beijing is a must-do. If you're planning to go on a food tour or explore the authentic old Beijing style, we recommend checking out the lanterns at Houhai and Shichahai. The night view is very colorful and the photos are amazing. 🏡 Exploring and eating at Shichahai is a traditional tourist activity. No matter what season it is, there's always a sense of ritual. This year, Shichahai is still in the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival. The night view is even more colorful than usual. It's a great place to take a stroll. As the temperature rises, it's easier to enjoy the night view. 🌟 The night view of Shichahai is still beautiful even without the ice rink. The countless lanterns along the banks of the lake light up the night. The view at night is very beautiful in the style of traditional Chinese architecture. In addition, the market near Qianhai, which was set up during the Spring Festival, has not yet been dismantled. The popularity is still very high. It seems that there are fewer places to watch lanterns during the Lantern Festival this year. This might be a good choice. 📅 When is the best time to go? The night view will probably last until the end of this month. ⏰ What time is more suitable to go? We recommend coming after 5:00 PM. Sunset or blue hour is the best time to take photos. The specific lighting time is basically consistent with the municipal time, around 5:30 PM. 🌈 How long is the estimated visit? If you're just taking photos and walking around, it's estimated to be around 1 hour. 👣 What are the reference routes and check-in points? No matter which direction you're coming from, we recommend walking around Qianhai. Lotus Market - Shichahai - Yinding Bridge - Yandai Slope - Fire God Temple - Jinding Bridge 🌈 What's the scenery like around here? Specific lamp positions, snowflake lanterns on the island in the lake, "Starry Sea" canopy lanterns in the Lotus Market corridor, ancient-style imitation ancient buildings and red lanterns, West City Impression characteristic landscape lanterns, and lakeside buildings are all open at night. 📷 How to take beautiful photos? It's not very suitable for taking portraits, but the view is excellent, especially for taking photos of the Jingshan Park and the Drum Tower. 👍 How to buy tickets? Free 🚗 How to get there? We recommend taking the subway and getting off at Beihai North Station. Walk there. 🔥 Tips before check-in: 1. Dress warmly as the night view is still below zero. 2. The lanterns may not be lit in windy or rainy weather. 3. We recommend visiting other nearby attractions such as Beihai Park. 📍 Location information: Near Lotus Market in Xicheng District ⏰ Opening hours: From January 28 to the end of February 🏞 Type of visit: City walk, internet celebrity check-in

Hey guys! Don't be confused when you come to Beijing. This 5-day Beijing tour guide will help you explore the city with ease. Save it now so you don't get lost! -------- 🎉Itinerary: 5-Day Beijing Tour Guide🎉 Day 1: Arrive in Beijing and enjoy 24-hour airport transfer service. Check in to your hotel. After settling in, you can enjoy some free time and experience Beijing at night! Day 2: Visit Tiananmen Square and feel the greatness of the motherland → Visit the National Museum of China and learn about history and culture → Visit the Palace Museum and experience the grandeur of the royal family. Be sure to visit the Hall of Supreme Harmony to see the emperor's throne → Stroll through Houhai Park and enjoy the charm of old Beijing → Visit Qianmen Street and taste authentic snacks. Day 3: Climb the Badaling Great Wall and admire the grandeur of the Great Wall → Visit the Olympic Park and feel the Olympic spirit and the charm of modern architecture. Day 4: Visit the Summer Palace and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kunming Lake → Visit the Old Summer Palace and reflect on the vicissitudes of history → Visit Tsinghua University and feel the academic atmosphere → Finally, visit the Temple of Heaven and experience the unique ancient sacrificial culture. Day 5: Sleep in and wake up naturally → Enjoy a delicious breakfast and then enjoy a full day of free time to explore every corner of Beijing → In the evening, your driver will take you to the airport or train station. End your pleasant trip to Beijing and return home. -------- Travel tips: - Food: Beijing roast duck is a must-try, and you can't miss the local snacks such as zhajiangmian and douzhi 🍜. - Photo spots: The red walls and green tiles of the Palace Museum and the artistic atmosphere of the 798 Art Zone are great places to take photos 📸. - Customs: During the Spring Festival, you can experience temple fairs and feel the traditional New Year atmosphere and folk culture 🧧. - January weather: Beijing is cold in winter, so remember to bring a warm coat and gloves 🧤. -------- I hope you have a great time in Beijing and leave with unforgettable memories! 🎉

For sisters who want to go to Beijing for New Year’s Eve, here is a super practical 4-day travel guide to help you easily enjoy the capital and spend the New Year’s Eve without regrets! 🚩Route suggestion: Enjoy Beijing, a four-day in-depth tour! DAY1: 🛫 Arrive in Beijing → 🚖 Enjoy 24-hour airport pick-up service → 🏨 Check in to the hotel → 🎉 Free travel Summary: When you first arrive in Beijing, enjoy your free time after arranging your accommodation! DAY2: 🏛️Tiananmen Square->🏰The Palace Museum->🌅Hall of Supreme Harmony->🌸Houhai Park->🛍️Qianmen Street Summary: Visit the core of the ancient capital and feel the fusion of history and modernity. DAY3: 🏞️Badaling Great Wall -> 🏆Olympic Park Summary: Climb the Great Wall to see the distance, then visit the Olympic holy land to experience different customs. DAY4: 🌳Summer Palace->🌊Kunming Lake->🌫️Old Summer Palace->🎓Tsinghua University->🕍Qigu Altar Summary: Stroll through the royal gardens, feel the academic atmosphere, and explore the ancient sacrificial buildings. Attractions to visit: The Palace Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 4 Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing - Opening hours: Closed all day on Monday - Duration: 1 day - Walk through the historical corridors and feel the glory of the ancient royal family. The large-scale ancient architecture museum is waiting for you to explore. Badaling Great Wall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Exit 58, G6 Beijing-Tibet Expressway, Yanqing District, Beijing - Opening hours: Open all year round - Playing time: 3-4 hours - Climb to a high place and have a distant view, and you can see the magnificence of the Great Wall, which combines its majestic and steepness with its beautiful and lush scenery. Summer Palace ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 19, Xinjian Gongmen Road, Haidian District, Beijing - Opening hours: Open all year round - Duration: 1 day - Stroll among the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains, and feel the uniqueness and grandeur of the royal gardens. The traces of history bloom in every detail. Tips for visiting: - Beijing is cold and dry in December, so remember to dress warmly🧣 and keep moisturized💧! - Don’t miss the old Beijing snacks, fried noodles with soybean paste and roast duck are classics 🍜🦆! - Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, must-see places for taking photos and checking in 📸🏯! - Avoid rush hour and take the subway for more convenient travel🚇. - Sanlitun and Houhai at night have a unique flavor🌃. I hope this guide can help you. I wish you have a great time and gain a lot of good memories during your trip to Beijing!

As I got in very early to Beijing by train, I was not sure what I could do before a meeting at 9am. So I chose to go to ShiChaHai. Got off metro and gate A2 and headed directly to Houhai. Weather nice, even when it rained a little. Pleasant stroll along the lake and down through the Hutongs (be careful to not get lost). 2 hours was suggested but did in much less time.

Houhai Park is an open area around Houhai. There are abundant green plants, wide water surfaces, and rows of hutongs here, with celebrity residences hidden among them, and the numerous bars add popularity to the night here. The street and alley structure of Houhai was formed as early as the Yuan Dynasty, and it was the end of the canal transportation at that time, known as the "Beijing Ancient Seaport". Opening hours All year round Opening hours (Monday to Sunday) 00:00-23:59 Ticket information The scenic area is open for free, free Other information Recommended play time 4 hours Transportation Get off at Jishuitan Station on Subway Line 2 or Beihai North Station on Subway Line 6, and then walk to reach.

Getting There - Really easy and beautiful ride Attractions - Lama Temple, amazing Houhai Lake Hotels - I finally found a gem in Beijing Hutongs, Blossom House at Houhai Lake. Food & Restaurants - Fork by TBR and Peach deliver to your hotel door. Shopping - awesome authentic zillion lake sellers

Be sure to go along Gulou West to experience the spring in Beijing Go along the main road towards Houhai Park Buy a cup of coffee and take a nap in front of Houhai Lake, watching the people passing by. Look at the birds and the fluttering willow leaves, feel the wind and feel life 🌱🌿☘🍀 #Overseas Travel