The exhibition "A Graphic History of Beijing Urban Construction" [Photo via the Official WeChat account of Xicheng District People's Government of Beijing Municipality]

How did Beijing look a century ago? What fascinating narratives have been nestled within the architecture encircling us? The exhibition "A Graphic History of Beijing Urban Construction" is now officially open to the public. Have you had a chance to visit it yet?

The exhibition was recently launched at Tianqiao WeSpace (located at No. 11 Yao'er Hutong, Xicheng District), after a meticulous six-month-long planning and designing process. The exhibition consists of three categories: namely "Urban", "Block" and "Architecture", exploring the local urban development in a gradual way through a variety of themes and showcasing the historical changes seen in Beijing's cityscape from diverse perspectives.

Opening hours

From April 29 to May 3, 2023: 13:00 to 18:00

From May 4 to May 3, 2023: 09:00-12:00 (on Mondays and Wednesdays)

Location: Tianqiao WeSpace (No. 11 Yao'er Hutong, Xicheng District)

A Peking Opera performance staged in "Dian Jiang Chun" café [Photo via the Official WeChat account of Xicheng District People's Government of Beijing Municipality]

Another hutong delight might be unexpectedly stumbling upon a Beijing-style coffee shop while strolling along the tree-lined paths on the west side of the Drum Tower.

"Dian Jiang Chun" (which literally means "rouged lips") is a garden-like café owned by a former skilled Peking Opera actor. The headgears and costumes displayed in this Peking Opera-themed café are closely connected to the owner's career background. The owner deliberately created a Peking Opera-inspired atmosphere in the establishment, aimed at exposing more people to this form of opera. All aspects of the café, including its name, decor, and display of products, reflect the culture of Peking Opera. The owner wishes that he can make the public learn more about this performance genre.

Most of its patrons are young people who come to pay visits, socialize, or negotiate. This coffee shop serves not only as a place for guests to enjoy their drinks but also as a classroom and training room for those interested in learning about Peking Opera. Foreigners visit the café to appreciate the charm of this performance genre. Kids also go there to become interested in the traditional singing and music performances through which they can feel the cultural elements and historical significance of Peking Opera.

Address: No. 60 Zhuzhong Hutong, Xicheng District.

(Source: Official WeChat account of Xicheng District People's Government of Beijing Municipality)