As May arrives, it's once again the perfect time to wander through the hutongs. Around any casual corner, you might stumble upon a "little surprise": vibrant flowers in full bloom, with their rich colors and vigorous vitality, filling the ancient alleyways with romance this early summer.

Zhuzhong Hutong

In Zhuzhong Hutong by Shichahai, the roses are in full bloom. On the rose branches reaching high into the sky, there are large clusters of bright yellow and soft pink roses, as if creating a rose arch for passersby. Zhuzhong Hutong is located at the east end of Gulou Xidajie (W. St), known as the Bell Foundry in the Ming Dynasty, an important place for bell casting at that time.

When strolling through Zhuzhong Hutong, after enjoying the roses in the hutong, you can also visit Shichahai and climb the Bell and Drum Towers.

Address: Zhuzhong Hutong

Gongjian Hutong

Gongjian Hutong was once the location of one of the twenty-four yamens in the Imperial City, serving as an important office space during the Ming and Qing dynasties. During the Qing Dynasty, the ice cellar storing ice blocks for the royal family was also located here. In addition, the famous navigator Zheng He once lived here. This hutong carries rich historical memories, witnessing the intertwining of court affairs, royal expenses, and the footsteps of famous figures.

This hutong is close to Beihai Park and is also a shortcut to the west gate of Jingshan Park. The Qingyun Temple at the south entrance of the hutong was built in the Ming Dynasty and converted into a temple for the God of Fire in the Qing Dynasty. It is now a museum open to the public for free, allowing visitors to explore historical traces.

As summer approaches, the colorful roses in Gongjian Hutong bloom passionately, contrasting with the gray tiles and blue bricks, making the hutong full of romance and beauty.

Address: Gongjian Hutong

Nanluogu Xiang

The roses in Nanluogu Xiang are in full bloom, with red, pink, and purple colors interweaving with lush green plants and elegant coffee shop fronts. Among the gray bricks and tiles, a romantic atmosphere filled with aesthetic beauty of life flows, adding a touch of gentle color filter to this quaint street.

The roses in front of Xiaoshiguang Coffee Shop are a picturesque scene, with vibrant flowers complementing the white walls and wooden windows, making one can't help but sigh at the peaceful time. Meanwhile, the hydrangeas at JM Coffee in Nanluogu Xiang are blooming eagerly, covering the entire courtyard with a dreamy pink and purple hue, as if stepping into a fairy-tale world embraced by flowers. Here, every ray of sunlight is infused with the fragrance of flowers, and every corner hides a romantic healing vibe, capturing the gentle essence of time with every snap.

Address: Nanluogu Xiang

Shoubi Hutong

Shoubi Hutong sounds auspicious, taking the meaning of "longevity compared to the Nan Mountains." Its name is a beautified version of the original name with a similar sound. Nowadays, the hutong is filled with residential houses. Despite being located in a bustling area, it forms a tranquil and serene space of its own. Time seems to slow down here, leaving only peace and harmony flowing between the blue bricks and grey tiles.

In Shoubi Hutong, next to an ancient and elegant gate, a cluster of lush roses grows freely, providing a rare photo spot. The solemnity of the vermilion gate, the elegance of the painted door beams, and the vibrant flower branches create a picturesque scene of ancient charm and romance. As the flowering season nears its end, when the wind blows, tiny petals fall like raindrops, weaving a beautiful "rose petal rain" on the bluestone pavement, adding a touch of poetry and gentleness to this quiet hutong.

Address: Shoubi Hutong

Lanman Hutong

Lanman Hutong is located in the middle of the Fuyuan Temple Historical and Cultural Block in Niu Jie (St), Xicheng. It is one of the well-preserved north-south oriented old hutongs within the 2 Huan Lu (2nd Ring Rd) of Beijing, with a length of about 300 meters. In the hutong, various graffiti, scene installations, and roadside flowers complement each other, creating a lovely and interesting atmosphere. Every snapshot captures creative scenes full of vitality, making it a popular spot for many tourists and photography enthusiasts.

After visiting Lanman Hutong, you can also go to Niu Jie(St) nearby to taste various kinds of food.

Address: Lanman Hutong