Shichahai
Shichahai, Beijing’s historic waterfront sanctuary, comprises three interconnected lakes (Qianhai, Xihai, Houhai) framed by hutongs, temples, and bustling bars. Originally a Yuan Dynasty canal hub, it became a Qing-era retreat for emperors like Qianlong, who sailed its waters. Today, it’s a vibrant tapestry of traditional and modern life, where rickshaws weave past neon-lit cafés and elderly residents play chess under weeping willows
Historical Overview
The area’s roots trace to the Jin Dynasty (12th century), when it served as a reservoir for the Grand Canal. During the Yuan Dynasty (13th–14th centuries), it became part of Kublai Khan’s imperial city, later expanding under the Ming and Qing dynasties. In 1949, it transformed into a working-class neighborhood, only to revive in the 2000s as a cultural hub. Notable moments include the 1990s hutong preservation campaign and the 2008 Olympic torch relay through its lanes.
Structural Layout
The lakes span 34 hectares, surrounded by:Hutongs: Traditional lanes like Yandai Xiejie (Tobacco Pouch Street) and Jinbao Hutong.
Architectural Gems: Prince Gong’s Mansion (1777), the Bell Tower (1420), and the Silver Ingot Bridge (1644).
Green Spaces: Houhai Park, Lotus Market, and the Qianhai Wetlands.
Key structures include the Drum Tower (1272), Guanghua Temple (1419), and the Song Qingling Former Residence (1963).
Major Attractions
Lakeside Stroll: Rent a paddleboat or bike the 8-km trail around Qianhai and Houhai.
Prince Gong’s Mansion: A Qing-era palace with gardens, a theater, and a 200-year-old “Weeping Mulberry” tree.
Bell & Drum Towers: Climb the 15th-century towers for panoramic views and drum performances.
Guanghua Temple: A Ming-era Buddhist temple hosting morning chanting sessions.
Song Qingling’s Former Residence: The 20th-century stateswoman’s home, now a museum.
Hutong Nightlife: Bar-hop at The Bricks (jazz club) or sip cocktails at Hutong Brewery.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Silver Ingot Bridge → Prince Gong’s Mansion → Bell Tower → Lotus Market → Exit at Houhai North.
- Culture Route (4 hours):
Add Guanghua Temple, Song Qingling’s Residence, and a hutong rickshaw tour.
- Nightlife Route (3–4 hours):
Evening boat ride → dinner at Quan Ju De (Peking duck) → drinks at Voyage rooftop bar.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book Prince Gong’s Mansion tickets via “Shichahai Scenic Area” WeChat.
On-Site: Free access to lakes/hutongs; mansion tickets at the gate.
- Prices:
Prince Gong’s Mansion: ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).
Bell Tower: ¥30 (adults), ¥15 (students/seniors).
Free: Houhai Park, Silver Ingot Bridge, and most hutongs.
Transportation
Subway: Line 8 to Shichahai Station (Exit A2), 5-minute walk.
Bus: Routes 5, 60, 82, 107, 124, or Night 10 to Gulou Stop.
Taxi: Direct to Silver Ingot Bridge (Qianhai Lake) or Houhai Park.
Best Time & Tips
Crowds: Avoid weekends; visit weekdays (9–11 AM or 6–8 PM).
Weather: Spring (Mar–May) for cherry blossoms; autumn (Sep–Oct) for crisp evenings.
Essentials: Wear comfy shoes (uneven hutong paths); carry cash for street vendors.
Prohibited: Swimming in lakes, biking in pedestrian zones, and feeding wildlife.
