Dong Si Bei Da Jie: 800 Years of Beijing Charm

1. Walk Through History

Dong Si Bei Da Jie is one of Beijing’s most iconic historic streets, dating back over 800 years to the Yuan Dynasty. Once a bustling commercial hub known for its grand paifangs (archways) in the Ming Dynasty, this street was the heart of old Beijing markets. Today, Dong Si Bei Da Jie perfectly blends ancient architecture with modern art spaces, offering visitors a glimpse of both history and creativity.

2. Shopping and Culture

This vibrant street is packed with traditional shops, cultural spots, and creative stores:

• Wu Yu Tai Tea House – Established in 1887, enjoy authentic Chinese teas and innovative tea treats.
• Beijing Daoxiangcun No. 0 Store – Original location for this famous snack brand, serving classic pastries and creative desserts.
• San You Shopping Mall – A long-standing department store, focusing on textiles and clothing.
• Liang Dian Cultural Park – Converted from an old mall, featuring art galleries and regular cultural events.
• Call Me Panda – A quirky shop selling panda-themed merchandise with a friendly atmosphere.
• Beixin Bridge Trust Bank – Beijing’s last state-owned trust bank, offering vintage items and antiques.
• China Bookstore – Nearly 70 years of history, with rare books for collectors and literature lovers.

3. Culinary Delights

Dong Si Bei Da Jie is also a food lover’s paradise:

• Beixin Bridge Lu Zhu – Traditional Beijing-style braised offal dishes.
• Dong Si Lu Zhu – Classic Beijing snacks including fried sausage and zhajiang noodles.
• Longfu Temple Snacks – Try traditional favorites like douzhi and jiaoquan.
• First Floor – Henan-style soup dumplings and spicy soups.
• Dong Si Hot Pot – Copper hot pot with premium lamb from Inner Mongolia.
• Twenty-Four Bakers – Freshly baked butter bread, perfect for street-view seating.

4. Cultural Landmarks and Hidden Gems

Beyond food and shopping, visitors can explore:

• Longfu Building Rooftop – Panoramic city views, perfect for photography.
• Duan Qirui Government Office Site – Historic European-style architecture featured in films.
• Dong Si Hutong Museum – Free museum showcasing Beijing hutong history and culture.
• Ju Yin Theater – Honoring the famous playwright Jiao Juyin, a hub for drama enthusiasts.
• Mu Mu Art Community – Contemporary art exhibitions in a creative space.
• Xi Guan Hutong – One of Beijing’s narrowest alleys, reflecting traditional city life.

5. Practical Tips

• Transportation: Accessible via Beijing Subway Lines 5 and 6 (Beixin Bridge, Dong Si stations) and multiple bus routes.
• Operating Hours: Most shops open 10:00–20:00; restaurants until 21:00–22:00.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather.
• Visitor Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking cobblestone streets and narrow alleys.

Conclusion

Dong Si Bei Da Jie is where Beijing’s past and present meet. Whether you’re seeking historic charm, delicious food, or contemporary art, this street offers an unforgettable experience. Every corner tells a story—traditional tea houses, bustling markets, and creative galleries—making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Beijing.