China Beijing Beijing

Houhai

A scenic area known for its large lake and historic hutongs, popular for paddle boating, ice skating, quaint bars, and traditional courtyard homes.

Tips from the community

Part of an ancient waterway dating to the Yuan Dynasty, Houhai and the adjacent Qianhai and Xihai are three artificial lakes in North Central Beijing that are a respite from bustling city life. To access the idyllic lakes, you’ll pass through historic hútòngs. Grab a seat at one of the many bars that line Houhai Bar Street for sips with a view of the sunset.

laurenmack 2 years ago

Houhai Articles

  • 35 Essential Things to Do in Beijing

    Beijing is a city of contrasts and a metropolis in constant flux. The Chinese capital’s wide boulevards and modern skyscrapers have been rapidly eclipsing the charming hútòngs (alleyways) and sìhéyuàn (courtyard homes) for decades, but there is still plenty of history and culture in the ‘Jing. From exploring the Forbidden City and riding bicycles through […]

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