Here's a list of four must-visit hutongs in Beijing that are highly recommended. These hidden gems are less crowded, full of charm, and steeped in history.

Shijia Hutong

It is often referred to as "one hutong, half of China," Shijia Hutong is home to over 80 courtyards, including the Shrine of Shi Kefa, the former residence of Zhang Shizhao, and Fu Zuoyi’s courtyard, all located near the western entrance. The hutong is also home to the former site of the Qing Dynasty's Left-Wing Imperial School, now Shijia Primary School, one of the most prestigious primary schools in Beijing. Admission to this school is no small feat. The Shijia Hutong Museum is another must-see, offering over 300 artifacts that provide a glimpse into the hutong life of earlier times.

Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 to Dengshikou Station, exit from the southeast exit, and walk for 5 minutes.

Dongsi 4Tiao 

Not to be confused with Dongsi 10Tiao Hutong, Dongsi 4Tiao is home to the Dongsi Hutong Museum at No. 77. This museum is housed in a traditional three-entry courtyard and is well worth a visit. Inside, you'll find a late Qing Dynasty fish tank, a Republic of China-era wardrobe, and a celestial sphere engraved with the 28 constellations in the third courtyard.

Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 to Dongsi Station, then walk for 10 minutes.

Dongjiao Minxiang

This area used to be a consulate district, lined with foreign buildings featuring spire-like, high roofs. It’s a great spot for photo ops after visiting Tiananmen, Qianmen, or Wangfujing, and it’s also a popular location for wedding photography in Beijing.

Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 or Line 2, get off at Chongwenmen Station, and exit at E.

Xizongbu Hutong 

No. 60 in this hutong was once home to the famous pharmacy Baoshantang, with old advertisements still visible on the walls. Before No. 17 was the Yuquanshan Brewery, where Beijing's first beer and soda were produced in 1911. In 1921, the city’s first tram company was established at No. 11 in Xizongbu Hutong. From 1932 to 1935, historian John K. Fairbank and his wife, Mary, lived at No. 39, where they secretly married. Additionally, the politician and military leader Li Jishen resided at No. 8. Beyond this, Xizongbu Hutong is known as the first non-stop hutong in the Jianguomen area. There’s much more history to explore and appreciate.

Xizongbu Hutong is also a great spot for photos of the China Zun, with a unique view of Zhongguancun. A single photo here seems to tell the story of Beijing’s past, present, and future. 

Transportation: Take Metro Line 1 or Line 5 to Dongdan Station, exit at E.

Translator: NIU Lihua 

Reviewer: DING Zhizhong