Gongjian Hutong

At this time of the year, visitors to Gongjian Hutong are most captivated by the Chinese roses cascading over the walls. Beyond the blossoms, the hutong carries a rich history: during the Qing Dynasty, it was home to an imperial ice cellar, and the renowned navigator Zheng He once resided here.

Also nearby: Beijing Epigraphy Museum

At the southern entrance of Gongjian Hutong lies Qingyun Temple, now repurposed as the Beijing Epigraphy Museum. Admission is free. Inside, a 113-square-meter reading area offers 20 complimentary seats, making it an ideal spot to relax, view exhibitions, and read books after exploring the hutong.

Opening Hours: 10:00–16:00, Tuesday to Sunday

Zhuzhong Hutong

Situated north of the eastern end of Gulou West Street, Zhuzhong Hutong once served as a bell-manufacturing workshop in the Ming Dynasty. Every May, Chinese roses climb the walls, transforming the lane into a dreamlike early-summer spectacle ideal for taking photos.

Also nearby: Mood in Rouge Café

Business Hours: 10:00–18:00, Monday to Friday; 10:00–19:00, Saturday to Sunday

Xinkai Hutong

In early summer, Xinkai Hutong surprises visitors with clusters of white roses nestled in it. Lush green vines spill over porches and courtyard walls of traditional dwellings. Without the bustle of heavy crowds, the lane is shared only with fluttering birds and locals taking leisurely strolls. The delicate scent of roses mingles with the gentle rhythms of daily hutong life, creating one of old Beijing's loveliest early-summer scenes.

Also nearby: Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling

A 10-minute walk from Xinkai Hutong brings you to the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling, once part of the garden of Prince Chun's Mansion. The main building, which was built later, combines a traditional Chinese façade with a Western-style interior, exemplifying a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western architectural designs.

Address: 46, Houhai Beiyan, Xicheng District

Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00, Tuesday to Sunday (last entry at 16:20)