Pronounced as 'da shi la r' by the local people, Dashilar Street should be the most ancient, famous and distinctive commercial street in hutongs of Beijing. Located outside the Qianmen Gate, it takes dozens of steps to walk from southwest of Tiananmen Square to its east end. The prosperous classes of the ancient Beijing nurtured its business. Now, Dashilar Street is famous for all kinds of stores with an antique flavor. Many people come here to experience the relics of historic wealth. Every day there are 150,000-160,000 visitors. On weekends and public holidays, this increases to more than 200,000.

来源@视觉中国

It originated in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and was finally built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) by local people, who put wooden fences at both ends. In the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and beyond, it was enlarged and grew in prosperity day by day. Since then the hutong acquired its name: Dashilar.

.来源@视觉中国

History favored it, but wounded it at the same time. The lane was burned down and repaired several times. In 1900, the fences suffered two fires. In the 1960s, it was upgraded for the first time, with the first asphalt road in the city. It became more

来源@视觉中国

In the 1990s, in order to win the title 'First Pedestrian Street of Beijing', the fences were repaired once again. In 2000, iron fences were added by the local municipal government. Little by little it became a bustling attraction.

来源@视觉中国

Although it has a history of more than 580 years, most of the ancient architecture is well preserved. Many famous old shops and time-honored brands in old Beijing still provide good products. There is a widespread saying among the folk that if you want to watch sideshows, go on the overbridge; if you want to go shopping, it is the place. Wearing the hats of Ma Ju Yuan, putting on the shoes of Nei Lian Sheng, owning the silk fabric of Rui Fu Xiang - these all make you part of the prosperous scene of it in ancient times.

来源@视觉中国

Source: travelchinaguide.com