Shichahai Beijing: Explore Old Beijing’s Water Town Charm

1. Introduction: Shichahai – Beijing’s Historic Water Town

When you think of Beijing, images of the magnificent Great Wall or the grandeur of the Forbidden City might immediately pop up. But in the heart of the city, there’s a unique area that many travelers miss: Shichahai. Known as Beijing’s “northern water town,” Shichahai is made up of three connected lakes—Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai—surrounded by willow trees, winding hutongs, and traditional siheyuan (courtyard houses). It’s a place where centuries of history meet modern life: you can see locals exercising by the lakes early in the morning, ride a rickshaw through historic alleys during the day, and enjoy the lively bars in the evening.

The name “Shichahai” literally means “Ten Temples Lake,” referencing the ten temples that historically surrounded the area. “Hai” comes from Mongolian, meaning “lake,” highlighting Beijing’s multi-ethnic historical roots.

2. History and Cultural Significance

Shichahai has more than 800 years of history. During the Yuan Dynasty (1264), when the city of Dadu (ancient Beijing) was being planned, water engineer Guo Shoujing designed the area as the northern end of the Grand Canal. The western shore of Shichahai was a bustling port where grains, charcoal, silk, and ceramics arrived from southern China.

By the Ming and Qing dynasties, Shichahai’s role as a shipping hub declined, but its cultural significance grew. Nobles, scholars, and artists built mansions along the lakeshore, and temples, hutongs, and siheyuan multiplied, forming a distinctive cultural landscape.

Silver Ingot Bridge (Yinding Bridge) is one of Shichahai’s landmarks. Standing on the bridge, you can look west to see the hazy Western Hills, a view famously called “Yinding Guanshan”, one of Beijing’s “Eight Views of Yanjing.”

Shichahai also nurtured literary legends. Famous writer Lao She was born near Xiaoyangjia Hutong, close to Shichahai. Many of his works, including Camel Xiangzi and Four Generations Under One Roof, depict life along the Shichahai lakeshore.

3. Things to See and Do

Shopping Experience

What to Buy: Traditional handicrafts like snuff bottles, Chinese paper-cutting, Peking Opera masks, and creative cultural souvenirs.

Where to Buy:

• Yandai Xie Street: A 230-meter historic street shaped like a tobacco pouch. During the Qing dynasty, it was lined with shops selling smoking accessories. Today, boutique stores offer souvenirs and unique gifts.
• Hutong Shops: Small shops scattered throughout the Shichahai hutongs often hide delightful surprises. The gray brick walls, red doors, and white marble doorposts give the area a strong historic charm.

Food Paradise

Must-Try Foods:

• Peking Duck: Multiple famous restaurants near Shichahai serve authentic Beijing roast duck.
• Old Beijing Snacks: Don’t miss Zhajiangmian, Douzhi, Jiaoquan, Luzhu, and sweet treats like sugar-fired buns and bean cakes at local shops like Ya’er Li Ji on Ya’er Hutong.
• Imperial Pastries: Traditional snacks from Fuhua Zhai Bakery let you taste flavors once enjoyed by Beijing’s nobility.

Historic Restaurants:

• Kaorou Ji: Known for traditional Beijing roasted meats.
• Huixian Tang & Qingyun Lou: Famous historic eateries still offering authentic old Beijing cuisine.

Entertainment and Activities

• Rickshaw Hutong Tours: Explore winding alleys in a traditional rickshaw. Drivers often share historical stories in English.
• Bar Experience: Shichahai, especially Houhai, is a hotspot for nightlife. Evening lights and lakeside bars create a lively atmosphere.
• Boating on the Lake: Rent a small boat in warm seasons for a unique view of the lakeside scenery.
• Cultural Festivals: Shichahai hosts annual cultural events. From mid-September to late October 2025, the 24th Shichahai Cultural Tourism Promotion Festival includes outdoor concerts, cultural markets, and interactive experiences.

Photo Spots

• Yinding Bridge: Capture the “Yinding Guanshan” view, especially stunning at sunset.
• Lotus Market: Best in summer when lotus blooms and willow trees line the shore.
• Hutong Corners: Dajinsi Hutong, Xiaojinsi Hutong, Ya’er Hutong, and Mao’er Hutong preserve old Beijing architecture—gray walls, red doors, white marble posts.
• Bell & Drum Towers: Panoramic views of Shichahai and Beijing’s central axis from above.

4. Practical Information: Getting Around

Location:
Shichahai is in Xicheng District, north of Beihai Park, composed of Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai, surrounded by historic streets, hutongs, and courtyard houses.

Transportation:

• Subway: Line 6 to Beihai North Station, or Line 8 to Shichahai Station.
• Bus: Routes 5, 60, 107, and others stop near Gulou (Drum Tower).
• Walking/Cycling: The area is pedestrian-friendly. Bike rentals allow flexible hutong exploration.

Recommended Map Apps:

• Gaode Map (Amap) and Baidu Map are widely used. Search for “Slow Enjoy Xicheng” or “Xiao De Guides Xicheng” for curated city walking routes covering Shichahai and surrounding neighborhoods.

Best Time to Visit:

• Early morning: peaceful lakeside walk.
• Evening: enjoy sunset and nightlife.
• Spring and autumn: most comfortable for outdoor activities.

Suggested Visit Duration:

• Minimum half-day; full day recommended for in-depth exploration of hutongs and mansions.

Peak Hours:

• Weekends and holidays are crowded, especially Yandai Xie Street and Yinding Bridge from 2–5 pm. Plan accordingly.

5. Travel Tips & Etiquette

Payment:

• Mobile payment is widely used (Alipay, WeChat Pay). Carry a small amount of cash as backup.

Bargaining:

• Politely bargain at souvenir shops on Yandai Xie Street, but not at restaurants, bars, or shops with fixed prices.

Etiquette:

• Respect residents’ privacy in siheyuan. Look for “No Entry” signs.
• Keep noise low in bars or public spaces.
• Do not litter—help protect the environment.

Language Tips:

• English is generally usable at bars, major hotels, and tourist sites.
• A few useful phrases in Chinese:
  • 你好 (Nǐ hǎo) – Hello
  • 谢谢 (Xiè xiè) – Thank you
  • 多少钱？(Duō shǎo qián?) – How much?
  • 这个 (Zhè gè) – This one

Shichahai is like a window into old Beijing, preserving deep historical and cultural heritage while embracing modern life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, or just want to experience authentic Beijing, Shichahai promises unforgettable memories and personal stories to discover.