Beijing's Central Axis, stretching gracefully from north to south through the heart of the ancient capital, is not only a monument to the city's architectural splendor but also a place where culture and life converge. Along this storied path, hidden gems in the form of coffee shops offer rare and captivating charm. Whether through their distinctive decor or innovative coffee culture, these cafés provide a moment's respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, blending the rich aroma of coffee with the deep history and enduring beauty of historic Beijing.
1901CAFE
Location: No. 101, Xi'anmen Street
Housed within a Baroque-style building dating back to 1901, 1901 CAFE was originally an annex to the North Church (Xishiku). Today, the café retains the building's original features—polished wooden staircases and timeworn bookshelves—imbuing the space with an air of nostalgia. Stepping inside feels like stepping into old Beijing. Whether nestled in a cozy corner with a book or basking in sunlight by the window, guests are invited to savor not only the coffee but the tangible weight of history that lingers in every detail.
Watchtower Café at the Forbidden City
Location: West of the Shenwu Gate, Forbidden City
Nestled beside the grand Shenwu Gate, the Watchtower Café beautifully marries royal history with modern allure. Its interiors pay tribute to the majesty of the Forbidden City, with the iconic A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains painting gracing the walls, evoking a sense of imperial grandeur. The menu continues the theme with delicacies such as "Emperor Kangxi's Favorite Chocolate" and "Three Thousand Beauties Milk Tea," each infused with the romance of the palace. Even the cups, in hues of yellow and red, mirror the colors of the Forbidden City's ancient walls, offering a sensory experience that blends the richness of coffee with the enduring allure of one of China's most iconic landmarks.
Mood in Rouge
Location: No. 60, Zhuzhong Hutong, Gulou West Street
Mood in Rouge is a poetic homage to Peking Opera. The café's interior is a masterful blend of opera-inspired details and refined Chinese aesthetics, exuding a distinct air of Oriental elegance. The menu reflects this theme, offering more than just traditional coffee; its signature drinks—such as Dream of Obsession, Drunken Blossoms, and As If in a Dream—are lyrical tributes to classic stories, each sip infused with cultural depth. More than just a café, this is a stage where the soul of Peking Opera comes alive, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the rich world of opera while savoring a cup of coffee.
CHOOCHOO COFFEE
Location: No. 78, Dashilan Street to Hanjia Hutong
CHOOCHOO COFFEE , themed around vintage trains, offers an immersive journey through time. The café's exterior and interiors are meticulously designed to replicate the atmosphere of old railway carriages, creating a distinctive, time-traveling experience. Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted, from the whimsical touch of receiving a train ticket as your order receipt to the novel ordering system, which adds an element of playful escape. This creative tribute to the romance of rail travel adds an unexpected layer of character to the Central Axis, alongside the enjoyment of a cup of coffee.
National Museum Café
Location: Second Floor, North Side of the West Hall, National Museum of China
Renowned for its innovative drinks, the National Museum Café offers more than just a place of respite. It immerses guests in a world where the richness of Chinese heritage converges with the artistry of modern coffee culture. The café's signature lattes, adorned with intricate designs inspired by cultural relics such as Dragon Soaring Across the Seas and Joy In the Face, pay homage to China's illustrious past in a contemporary setting. Each cup is symbolically linked to a treasured artifact, imbued with auspicious meaning. Here, visitors can savor not only exquisite coffee but also a journey into the heart of Chinese tradition.
As the fading light of the setting sun bathes the Central Axis, the café lights gradually come to life, shimmering like pearls strung along this historic spine, linking Beijing's past, present, and future. These cafés are not just places to enjoy coffee; they are active participants in the cultural and historical narrative of the Central Axis. Amidst the rich aroma of their brews, visitors are invited to experience not only a moment of relaxation but the unique charm and infinite possibilities embodied by this iconic landmark of Beijing.
