Shichahai is a historical and cultural tourism scenic spot in Beijing. It sits in Xicheng District, adjoining the central axis of Beijing. Covering a water area of 336,000m2 which abuts against Zhongnanhai, Shichahai is the only open scenic spot with a wide expanse of water in inner city, and also the largest historical block with the best-preserved landscapes, earning a unique position in the planning and construction history of Beijing.

It consists of Qianhai (Front Lake), Houhai (Rear Lake), Xihai (Western Lake, also known as Jishuitan), that comprise the Three Rear Lakes which echoes the Three Front Lakes. Shichahai literally means "the lake of ten temples" as it was surrounded by ten Buddhist temples. Among wonderful sceneries of Beijing, it is famous as a mecca for people to have fun and escape hot summer since the Qing Dynasty. Many ancient buildings in Shichahai Scenic Area play an important role in the history of urban construction and the political and cultural history in Beijing, mainly represented by the Prince Kung's Mansion, the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling, the Prince Chun's Mansion, the Memorial Hall of Guo Moruo, Bell and Drum Towers, Deshengmen Embrasure Watchtower, Guanghua Temple, Huitong Temple, and Huixian Hall.

Address: Yangfang Hutong, Xicheng District 西城区羊房胡同

Traffic Guide: take Subway Line 6 and get off at the Exit B of Beihai North Station, and then walk to the destination