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Zhuanta Hutong is a historical alleyway in Beijing, perfect for leisurely strolls to experience traditional Chinese architecture and culture. Visitors can explore local shops selling traditional goods, sample street food, and visit the nearby Zhuanta Temple. It's an excellent spot to soak in the ambiance of old Beijing.
From the Yuan, Ming, Qing, Republic of China, to today, Zhuanta Hutong is the only hutong in Beijing that has been documented. It can be said that it is the "root" of Beijing's hutongs.
No. 8 Taipingqiao Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, despite its century-long history, has suffered relatively little damage and its appearance is well-preserved. At the east entrance of the alley stands an octagonal, seven-eaved, blue-gray brick tower, known as the "Yuan Wansong Old Man Tower," which serves as the alley's landmark.
This alley was once home to many famous modern figures, including Lu Xun, Zhang Henshui, Shao Lizi, and Qi Yanming. Lu Xun moved here after his falling out with Zhou Zuoren and wrote many of his works, while Zhang Henshui, a writer of the Mandarin Duck and Butterfly School, completed his life here. Today, the area has been converted into a residential area, but it remains clean and tidy, and one can still sense its rich cultural heritage.
temperate monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour
free
All day
Zhuanta Hutong, also known as Bell Tower Alley, is a historic area in Beijing dating back to the Yuan Dynasty. It is significant for its well-preserved ancient architecture and the nearby Zhuanta Temple, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The area offers a glimpse into traditional life in Beijing, with its narrow alleys and historic homes.
Zhuanta Hutong is located in the Dongcheng District of Beijing, near the Bell Tower and Drum Tower. It can be reached by taking the metro to the Guloudajie Station (Line 8), then walking for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and buses can drop you off nearby.
Zhuanta Hutong is an open public space and can be visited year-round at any time. However, the best times are during the day when the streets are lively, and the weather is pleasant, especially in the spring and autumn months. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded.
There is no entrance fee to visit Zhuanta Hutong as it is a public space. However, any entrance fees will apply only to specific attractions like Zhuanta Temple or other nearby attractions.
No, tickets are not required in advance for visiting Zhuanta Hutong itself. For attractions like Zhuanta Temple, it is not necessary to book in advance, though it is recommended for larger groups or during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring Zhuanta Hutong thoroughly takes about 1-2 hours. If you wish to explore nearby attractions like the Drum Tower or Bell Tower, you may want to allocate a few extra hours.
Guided tours are available at Zhuanta Temple, and audio guides may be available for the Drum Tower and Bell Tower. These tours are typically offered in English and Mandarin.
Best photography spots include the entrance to Zhuanta Hutong, where you can capture traditional courtyard houses. The Drum and Bell Towers also provide stunning views of the city, especially when viewed from above. Early morning light is perfect for photos.
Start by walking through Zhuanta Hutong, taking in the local shops and architecture. Visit Zhuanta Temple, then head to the Drum Tower and Bell Tower nearby for a historical perspective. Finish your tour with a walk along the nearby traditional hutongs to get a full sense of local life.
There are no specific light shows or special tours in Zhuanta Hutong at night. However, the area is well-lit and offers a peaceful atmosphere for evening strolls. The Drum and Bell Towers may also have evening events during the summer months.
Zhuanta Hutong can get busy, especially during weekends or public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays. Early spring or autumn is also a less crowded time for tourists.
There are public toilets in the area, as well as several cafes and small shops selling food, water, and souvenirs. Some rest areas are available in nearby parks and courtyards. There are also many restaurants serving local Chinese dishes.
Zhuanta Hutong has narrow paths typical of traditional Beijing alleys, which may pose difficulty for those with mobility issues. It is not entirely wheelchair accessible, but elderly visitors and children can still enjoy the area with some assistance.
While many places accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay, it is advisable to carry some cash in case certain small shops or vendors only accept it. Cards are not always accepted in smaller, local establishments.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at many of the local restaurants. Halal food can also be found nearby, particularly in the Muslim Quarter of Beijing.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in the area offering traditional Chinese crafts, including silk scarves, tea sets, and wooden carvings. The area is also known for selling unique local art and calligraphy.
