Juer Hutong

Introducing Juer Hutong

Ju'er Hutong, located in the northwest of Dongcheng District, stretches from Jiaodaokou South Street in the east to Nanluoguxiang in the west. It also houses the residence of Ronglu, the Grand Secretary and Governor-General of Zhili during the Qing Dynasty. It is famous for hiding a residential complex at No. 41 Ju'er Hutong, a rare example of a new courtyard house within Beijing's old city. The most authentic vestiges of Beijing's old city culture are reflected in its architecture, and each hutong boasts a distinguished past and a thrilling story. For example, Nos. 3, 5, and 7 Ju'er Hutong in Dongcheng District were the residences of Ronglu, a high-ranking official during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty.

The newly constructed houses in Ju'er Hutong have won awards for their architectural style. Home to a diverse international community, the area has retained a well-preserved, old-Beijing feel. Primarily residential, it's not overly commercial or crowded. Walking through the hutong, observing the occasional foreigners and Beijingers passing by, you'll feel like a migrant worker in Beijing.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Juer Hutong

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Juer Hutong is a traditional Beijing alley that reflects the city's historical and cultural roots. Hutongs are narrow streets or alleys lined with traditional courtyard homes, representing the old way of life in Beijing. Juer Hutong, with its centuries-old buildings and peaceful ambiance, offers a glimpse into the past and provides insight into the daily life of the city's residents before rapid modernization.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Juer Hutong is located in the Dongcheng District of Beijing, close to the famous Nanluoguxiang area. It is easily accessible by subway, with the closest metro station being Dongsi (Line 5). You can also take a taxi or walk from nearby attractions like the Lama Temple or Houhai Lake.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Juer Hutong itself is a public street and is open at all times. However, the best time to visit is during the day to enjoy the vibrant street life, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the area is less crowded. It’s also ideal to visit in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Juer Hutong as it is a public area. However, some specific attractions, like nearby temples or museums, may require tickets. These can be purchased onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required for Juer Hutong itself. If you plan to visit any nearby attractions or take a guided tour, it’s advisable to book tickets or tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Juer Hutong typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on whether you stop at local shops, cafes, or nearby attractions. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, so you can spend as much time as you like soaking in the local atmosphere.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The traditional courtyard houses that line the narrow streets, showcasing ancient Beijing architecture.
• The small local shops offering unique souvenirs, antiques, and traditional crafts.
• Nearby temples or cultural sites that reflect Beijing’s history and spirituality, like the Lama Temple.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, either through local agencies or private guides. Tours are typically available in English and Mandarin. Audio guides may be offered at certain nearby attractions but are not common in the hutong itself.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The narrow alleyways, which offer a great opportunity for street photography and capturing the essence of old Beijing.
• Local courtyards and traditional buildings, which are perfect for architectural shots.
• Photographing the interactions between locals and visitors adds to the cultural experience of the area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance of Juer Hutong, stroll through the alleyway, stopping by small shops and cafes. Walk toward the southern end, where the area connects to larger streets. You can then explore nearby attractions such as the Lama Temple or Houhai Lake afterward.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits to Juer Hutong are possible, and the area offers a more tranquil and atmospheric experience in the evening. However, there are no light shows or special nighttime tours in the hutong itself. The nearby Houhai Lake area offers a vibrant nightlife scene if you wish to continue your evening exploration.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Juer Hutong can get crowded during weekends or holidays, especially in the afternoon. The least crowded times are early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays, when locals are going about their daily routines.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The area has some small shops and cafes. However, public toilets and water stations may be limited. It’s a good idea to bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to explore the area at length. Nearby areas, such as Nanluoguxiang, offer more facilities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The narrow streets and cobblestone paths of Juer Hutong can be difficult to navigate for elderly or disabled visitors. The area is best suited for those who are comfortable walking. Families with children should be cautious of busy traffic in the area.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Juer Hutong, though some shops may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay. It’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local tea houses and small cafes serve traditional Beijing snacks and drinks.
• Nearby, you can find a range of restaurants offering Chinese and international cuisine, such as in the Nanluoguxiang area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some nearby restaurants, particularly in the Nanluoguxiang area. Halal food options are also available in some restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Orchid Hotel is located nearby, offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to the hutong.
• Budget options like the Beijing Downtown Backpackers Hostel are also close by, perfect for travelers on a budget.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Lama Temple, a short walk away, is a must-see for history and culture lovers.
• Houhai Lake and the surrounding area offer a beautiful setting for walks and boating.
• The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are also within a short distance.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, antiques, postcards, and artwork. Local handmade items like calligraphy and pottery are common souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• The nearby Dongsi metro station (Line 5) offers access to other parts of the city.
• Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi are readily available for further travel.