In recent years, Zhonglouwan Hutong has become a popular destination for foreign visitors.

At first, this is a right place to experience the Hutong life. You can see the ancient Chinese buildings, you can see the old people rest in shade and play poker with cattail leaf fans in hand. Mothers and grandmas play with the children in the square. There will also be many old men play Chinese Chess whilst chatting.

What’s more, this Hutong has a reputation due to the fact that it is the location of the Bell Tower and Drum Tower. Beijing Bell Tower and Drum Tower are a pair of ancient buildings at the north end of the central north/south axis.

Bell Tower is the ancient timekeeper of the city, it is located north of the Drum Tower and was first built in the 9th year of the Zhi Yuan period of the Yuan Dynasty (1272). Later it was burnt down. It was reconstructed in the 10th year of the Qian Long period of the Qing Dynasty (1745).

Another feature of this area is the rickshaws which can be found here, hopping on a rickshaw and exploring this ancient hutong is a wonderful experience.