Bada Hutong was formerly Beijing's largest red light district in its history. First emerging in the 18th century, outside the city gates, Bada Hutong is part of a location name of eight hutongs situated closely. During the Qing Dynasty, it was the spot for brothels. Bada Hutong in the old days of Beijing are: Baishun Hutong, Yanzhi Hutong, Hanjiatan (now known as Hanjia Hutong), Shaanxi Xiang, Stone Hutong, Wangguangfu Street (now known as Sago Palm Street), Zhujia Hutong, and Lishamao Hutong (now known as Dali Hutong and Xiaoli Hutong).

They were founded during the Qianlong Emperor period, and were famous at the end of Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) and the Republic of China period. Lady Sai Jinhua (famous prostitute and influential lady, 1872–1936) once lived in some of these hutongs. Bada Hutong has been preserved, though there are great changes happening in Beijing.

Location: between West Zhushikou Street and Tieshu (Sago Palm) Street

Surrounding attractions: Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and Liulichang Street

Bus Route: take No. 2, 20, 48, 59, 66, 69, 77, 120, 201, 203, 626, 729, to Dashanlan (near Dali Hutong and Xiaoli Hutong), or No. 5 to Wanming Road (near Stone Hutong)

Source: chinahighlights.com