A Beijing Hutong Adventure!

Riding Rickshaws Through Ancient Beijing Alleyways

Beijing Hutongs are the old traditional alleys and thousands of lanes weaving in between the courtyard homes surrounding the Forbidden City where most Beijing residents used to live.

Although many still remain, the old Hutongs are sadly being replaced by high-rise buldings to give way to the modernization of Beijing.

Rickshaw ride through the Beijing Hutongs

A trip through the Hutongs gave us a glimpse of Chinese traditional life. There were groups of elderly people playing Mahjong, some were practicing their early morning exercises. There were colorful markets and small stalls selling the local foods.

After our Pedicab ride, we walked around and ended at the Drum Tower.

Climb the steep stairs and check out the Drums. There is one large drum and 24 smaller ones which were used to mark the hours in the old days.

The kids might enjoy the Drum Ceremony which takes place every hour on the half hour.

Go outside to the terrace and look out over the city. There is also a nice view of the Bell Tower just accross.

Click on the arrow and watch a short video from our rickshaw ride and visit to the Drum Tower:

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Alternatively, you might want to see this part of ancient Beijing by bicycle, just watch out for the crazy drivers and pedestrian traffic!

Check out our Beijing Map for this and other Beijing Attractions' locations.

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