Here are some lesser-known places in Beijing for a stroll that exude a strong Beijing flavor, carry rich historical and cultural significance, and offer a unique Beijing charm.

Niu Street (Niujie) - Food Paradise

Niu Street, also known as Niujie, is a historic street with a strong Hui people culture. The mosques and Muslim buildings along the street testify to the historical settlement of Hui people in the area.

Here, you can taste authentic Hui cuisine such as Yangrou Paomo (crumbled flatbread with mutton soup) and beef noodles, each bite filled with Beijing's unique flavors. Additionally, the architectural style of Niu Street reflects the religious beliefs and cultural traditions of the Hui people. Domes, high towers, and other Islamic elements can be seen everywhere, creating a strong religious ambiance.

[Location and Transportation]: Take Metro Line 7 to Niujie Station and walk south to reach the street.

Panjiayuan Antique Market

Panjiayuan Antique Market is a marketplace that brings together antiques, art, and old books. Here, you can discover a variety of rare antiques and art pieces such as porcelain, jade, calligraphy, and paintings, which are treasures of Chinese culture. Moreover, performances by local artists, such as folk dances and acrobatics, add a rich artistic atmosphere to the market. This is a great place to dive deep into Beijing's traditional culture and artistic heritage.

[Location and Transportation]: Take Metro Line 10 and get off at Panjiayuan Station. Exit from exit B and walk 100 meters west.

Lanman Hutong

Lanman Hutong is an alley with a rich historical flavor. It was once known as "Lanmian Hutong" due to a noodle shop that cooked its noodles to a soft, smooth consistency, gaining popularity and thus giving the alley its name.

Today, the hutong has become clean and elegant, yet it still retains that distinctive Beijing charm. Strolling through Lanman Hutong, you can feel the unique flavor and cultural atmosphere of old Beijing. Sites around the hutong include the former residence of Tan Sitong, the site where Mao Zedong held a meeting to oust Zhang Xueliang, and nearby landmarks such as Lianhua Temple and Fayuan Temple.

[Location and Transportation]: Take Metro Line 4 and exit at Caishikou Station from exit D.

Model Bookstore Plus Poetry Space

Model Bookstore Plus Poetry Space is a unique bookstore that was transformed from a church. This church was formerly a chapel of the Church of Christ in China and has a history of over a century.

Now, it has been transformed into an artistically vibrant bookstore. Here, you can find a variety of literature and art books while also admiring the unique architectural charm of the church. This blending of the ancient and the modern creates a cultural atmosphere that is distinctly Beijing.

[Location and Transportation]: Take Metro Line 4 and exit at Caishikou Station from exit D.

The most distinctive aspect of these places in Beijing is that they not only carry rich historical and cultural significance but also showcase Beijing's unique charm and humanistic atmosphere. Whether you are tasting delicious food, searching for antiques, exploring the hutong, or savoring the scent of books, you can experience the allure of Beijing in these lesser-known spots. We hope these introductions will add more color and enjoyment to your trip to Beijing.

Translator: NIU Lihua

Reviewer: BAI Jing