Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Beijng's old
hútòng
are filled with quaint bars, cafes, and shops.
You can grab a bite to eat along Gulou Dongdajie, or, alternatively, pick up a guitar from
one of the numerous guitar shops along the street. Beiluogu Xiang (the north section of
Nanluogu Xiang) and Baochao Hutong are also worth a visit. These two
hútòng
string off
the north side of Gulou Dongdajie and in recent years have likewise begun to cater to night
goers. Nanluogu Xiang is almost unavoidable, and if you need souvenirs, this is definitely
the place to shop. Try not to just get stuck along here, though, and instead explore the much
more interesting, much more local
hútòng
that run off it.
Apartments in the Gulou area are generally local in style and less likely to have high-
level security (if any). For this reason, you'll easily be able to walk in and wander around
the grounds, but, on the other hand, it will be tough to find an official who'll show you
around. Check on the Beijinger website for local apartments, and drop into the real estate
agents along the streets. Most will have two or three apartments that they can show you at
a moment's notice. If you're by yourself and willing, the agents will probably even run you
from place to place on the back of their scooter—which makes a fantastic way to discover
the neighborhood.
