Shichahai Beijing: Exploring the Lakes, Hutongs & Local Life
In the heart of Beijing’s western district, Shichahai—comprising Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai lakes—shines like a jewel in the ancient capital. This watery paradise blends natural beauty, historical charm, and vibrant local life. Since the Yuan Dynasty, it has been a retreat for royalty and scholars. Praised as the “water town of the north,” Shichahai offers stunning scenery year-round: lotus blooms and weeping willows in summer, and a natural ice rink in winter. It is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Beijing attractions.
Shichahai Lakes: Beijing’s Poetic Waterfront
Covering 336,000 square meters, Shichahai is the only large, open body of water within Beijing’s old inner city.
- Summer: Lotus flowers bloom while willows sway gently above the water. A boat ride here feels like a trip to Southern China’s water towns.
- Winter: The frozen lake becomes a lively skating rink, echoing with laughter and skates carving melodies across the ice.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Yinding Bridge View: Stand on this Ming Dynasty stone bridge to see the Western Hills’ outline. On clear days, distant temples appear—a view known as “Yinding View of the Western Hills”, one of Beijing’s classic Eight Minor Views.
- Cycle or Walk the Shore: A 7-kilometer path along the lakeshore lets visitors glimpse authentic Beijing life, from fishing locals to strolling residents.
Shichahai History: Palaces and Heritage Sites
Shichahai preserves over 40 cultural heritage sites, making it a living open-air museum.
Prince Gong’s Mansion: Qing Dynasty Power and Elegance
The largest Qing princely mansion in Beijing, originally the residence of He Shen before being granted to Prince Gong, Yixin. The Rear Main Building stretches 99.5 rooms with 88 uniquely patterned windows. Its garden, Cui Jin Yuan, houses the famed Fu Stele by Emperor Kangxi.
- Tip: Book a guided tour to understand the Feng Shui symbolism and imperial power coded in the architecture.
Soong Ching Ling Former Residence: Royal Grace
Once the Prince Chun Mansion garden, it became the Beijing home of Soong Ching Ling, Sun Yat-sen’s wife. The 200-year-old Phoenix Scholar Tree and rock gardens complement the main house, which displays manuscripts and personal belongings.
Bell and Drum Towers: Beijing’s Timekeepers
Climb the Ming Dynasty Bell Tower for panoramic views of Shichahai and the surrounding hutongs. Though silent today, the 69 steps still give a sense of historical rhythm as you overlook the city.
Shichahai Hutongs: Authentic Beijing Life
The hutongs around Shichahai branch like veins, with Yandai Xiejie and Jinsitao as highlights.
- Yandai Xiejie: Known for its tobacco-pipe shape, this 232-meter street hosts antique shops and traditional crafts. Don’t miss Baodu Feng for lamb tripe soup with sesame flatbread—a local delicacy.
- Rickshaw Tours: Explore Yuer Hutong and Baimi Xiejie by pedicab. Admire traditional door carvings (mendang and hudu) and glimpse hidden siheyuan courtyard homes with cats napping under grapevines.
Shichahai Neighbors: Extended Exploration
- Nanluoguxiang: A checkerboard Yuan Dynasty hutong. Busy main street but peaceful side lanes like Fuxiang Hutong reveal historic charm. Visit the Mao Dun Former Residence for a quiet glimpse of a writer’s life in Beijing.
- Wudaoying Hutong: Two subway stops north, a haven for artists and youth. Independent bookstores, craft studios, and unique cafes make this area a modern artistic extension of Shichahai.
Travel Tips for Visiting Shichahai
- Best Seasons: June–August for lotus flowers, December–February for ice skating.
- Transit: Metro Line 8 to Shichahai Station or Line 2 to Jishuitan Station; about a 10-minute walk.
- Tickets: Shichahai is free. Prince Gong’s Mansion: 40 RMB; Bell and Drum Tower combo: 30 RMB.
- Hidden Fun: Enjoy live music at Houhai bar street in the evening, or stay in a hutong guesthouse to wake up to lake views.
Shichahai may lack the grandeur of the Forbidden City or the rugged scale of the Great Wall, but it whispers gently through flowing water, willow branches, and centuries of history. Step onto Yinding Bridge, and you’ll understand why travelers call it the soul of Beijing—a place one never wants to leave.
If you want to explore more of Beijing’s must-visit attractions, click through to discover the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Badaling Great Wall.
