Waterfront locations: Wanning Qiao(Bridge), Dongbuyajiao Qiao(Bridge), Chunfeng Academy

Located in the Dongcheng District of Beijing, the Yu He was established during the Yuan Dynasty and is a part of the Tonghui He. It runs from the southern end of Dongbuyajiao Hutong to the western end of Mao"er Hutong, forming an important component of the imperial city's water system. Before the Ming Dynasty, the Yu He served as a channel for grain transportation into Beijing. Since the 20th century, urban development has gradually transformed it into a covered drainage system. However, at the beginning of this century, with the advancement of cultural archaeology related to the Grand Canal, the long-neglected ancient course of the Yu He has begun to receive renewed attention.

Today, what we see are the archaeological remnants of riverbanks and the Dongbuyajiao Qiao(Bridge) from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, which are the only ancient riverbed sites in Beijing's central urban area.

Strolling along the Yu He, you can follow the path from Wanning Bridge along the central axis, meandering southeast for a total of 1,100 meters. The He features three important sluices: the Chengqingshang Sluice at Wanning Bridge, the Chengqingzhong Sluice at Dongbuyajiao Qiao(Bridge), and the Chengqingxia Sluice located on the west side of Beiheyan Dajie(St). Both banks of the He are lined with newly constructed traditional Chinese courtyard houses featuring blue bricks and black tiles, creating a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for leisurely walks and reflecting on history.

Dongbuyajiao Bridge was formerly known as Dongbuliao Bridge. Originally a wooden bridge, it was rebuilt as a single-arch stone bridge during the Ming Dynasty. It is said that during the Yuan Dynasty, this area was a marketplace for trading textiles and grain, which is why it was called "Buliao Bridge". The name "Dongbuyajiao" is related to another ancient bridge, Xiyajiao Bridge. Originally named Xibuliang Bridge, it is located between the back gate of Beihai and Shichahai. During the Ming Dynasty, when the imperial city was expanded, the north wall of the city pressed down on the bridge, leading to its name. In contrast, Dongbuyajiao Bridge, situated outside the city wall and a short distance away, was not affected by the city's expansion, hence its name.

In the alleys along the Yu He, there are several former residences of famous individuals. One notable site is the former home of Qi Baishi, located in Yuer Hutong, which is one of the few small memorial museums open for visits. The museum is a small siheyuan (courtyard house) with a simple and rectangular structure. The north room, traditionally the master's room, preserves the furniture used by the artist in his lifetime, including tables, chairs, painting desks, and a bed, along with a few literary artifacts.

The east wing displays panels detailing Qi Baishi's life, along with various related art books for visitors to browse. The west wing introduces the culture of decorative writing paper and showcases letters written on artistic paper. The south room features a small cultural shop, offering various printed stationery inspired by Baishi, as well as adorable persimmon tea canisters, reflecting his love for painting persimmons.

At the Tonghui He Yu He Ruins Park, there is the historic Yuhe An, a structure over 600 years old, which is now the third store of "Chunfeng Xixi". The entrance is ancient and weathered, and the courtyard contains scattered stone tablets, the mountain gate of Yuhe An, and the foundation ruins of the east and west wings. The VOYAGE COFFEE bar is situated in the central hall, where its minimalist design harmoniously merges with the courtyard's rustic and historical atmosphere. You can choose your favorite coffee beans and ask the staff to prepare an espresso; sitting under the shade and chatting with friends is sure to be a delightful experience.

Along the banks of the Yu He, in the alley by Dongbuyajiao Bridge, lies a unique courtyard that houses the world's first artistic lifestyle experience center by the Danish design brand Georg Jensen—The Georg by Georg Jensen Hus. This space beautifully merges traditional Chinese architecture with Nordic aesthetics, featuring a restaurant on the first floor and an exhibition area on the second. On weekends, it's a great spot to enjoy brunch while experiencing the harmonious blend of traditional and modern elements.

Also hidden along the Yu He is a branch of the purely Japanese whiskey bar Yan Whiskey Bar, known as Yan Jia No. 2. The minimalist, vintage decor complements the old residence perfectly. This venue is particularly appealing to younger crowds, offering a variety of whiskey choices along with the option to select your preferred glass, showcasing the essence of Japanese design details.

Beijing is not just about hot pot at the South Gate; there's also hot pot at the North Gate. Beimen Shuanrou is located at the head of a wooden arch bridge, with its sign visible from afar. Originally, the first location opened at the North Gate of Ditan Park, hence the name "Beimen Shuanrou". While the original location is no longer in operation, the name has gained popularity, and several branches continue to use it. Beijing hot pot typically features a clear broth paired with sesame sauce, emphasizing the freshness of the meat and the fragrance of the sauce. For those who enjoy sweet garlic, you're in for a treat—this restaurant serves peeled sweet garlic right on the table, showing great attention to detail.