This is my second visit to China and my maiden trip to Beijing. One of the many places that I've visited during my trip there was Nan Luo Gu Xiang. This is actually a hutong, which means narrow alley, in Dongcheng district. The place is rather touristy as it has gained popularity for being representative of what living in an alley is like in Beijing.
This place is believed to have been built in the 1700s and it has been a place of hangout for young and old. There are quite a number of cafes, antique shops, souvenir shops and props along the way for tourists to photograph.
At night, it is extremely popular among the younger folks as there are many street food stalls around. If you're lucky, you may also be entertained by some street buskers.
Street food lined up along the 800m long street and you'll get to try a variety of street food ranging from barbequed squid to kebabs and even sweet and sour noodles!
Considering how the area has become so touristy over the years, security officers are also placed there to patrol in a buggy.
If you're in China, you can almost always find Starbucks at most of the touristy places and Nan Luo Gu Xiang is no exception. This Starbucks carries along a very Chinese characteristic, with a vintage Oriental facade built at the front of the shop.
Should you have some time to visit, Nan Luo Gu Xiang can be reached via subway either by Line 6 or Line 8. From there, just follow the throng of visitors towards to hutong.
Have fun!
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