As a foreign tourist who loves to explore different cultures, I have traveled to China many times. Every time I come to Beijing, I am not satisfied with just checking in the famous and popular Beijing tourist spots. Places like the forbidden city, The Great Wall, and Tiananmen Square are certainly magnificent, but the crowds are overwhelming, making it difficult to calm down and savor the charm of this city. Later, I met some local friends in Beijing who shared with me many hidden niche tourist destinations, giving me a brand new understanding of Beijing. Next, follow in my footsteps and explore these treasure lands together.
Shijia Hutong Museum: A Museum of Time in Hutong
When I first arrived in Beijing, I was attracted by the criss crossing Hutongs, but ordinary hutong tours always felt like something was missing. It wasn't until a local friend took me to the Shijia Hutong Museum that I truly entered the depths of the history of the hutong.
Entering a museum feels like traveling back in time. There are many daily necessities, photos, and literature materials from old Beijing displayed in the museum, each carrying memories of time. I saw old-fashioned radios, black and white televisions, and yellowed family photos here, as if I could hear the stories of people's lives in the past. There is also a small courtyard model in the museum, which delicately showcases the layout and architectural style of the old Beijing courtyard. I stayed inside for a long time, listening to the commentator talk about the historical changes of the hutongs while feeling the strong Beijing style culture. There are no noisy crowds here, only a peaceful atmosphere that allows people to calm down and fully experience the charm of old Beijing.
Wudaoying Hutong: A Paradise for Literary and Artistic Youth
If you enjoy the atmosphere of artistic petty bourgeoisie, then Wudaoying Hutong is definitely not to be missed. This place is not as heavily commercialized as NanluoguXiang, but is filled with a unique artistic atmosphere.
Strolling in the alley, there are various specialty shops on both sides, including exquisite handicraft shops, creative cafes, and restaurants with different styles. I walked into a handicraft shop, where there were many decorations and ornaments made of traditional materials, each with unique creativity. The shop owner is a passionate Beijing girl who introduced me to the production process and cultural connotations of these handicrafts. In a caf é, I ordered a cup of coffee and sat by the window, watching the pedestrians coming and going outside, enjoying this leisurely time. There is no noisy shouting here, only gentle music and people's laughter, making people feel like they are in a world of literature and art.
Red Brick Art Museum: The Perfect Fusion of Art and Architecture
For art enthusiasts, the Red Brick Art Museum is a rare and excellent destination. This art museum is built with red bricks and has a unique architectural style, full of modern art.
Entering the art museum, the first thing that catches the eye is a huge circular courtyard with a clear lake water, surrounded by scattered buildings and green plants. A contemporary art exhibition is currently being held in the museum, showcasing the works of many domestic and foreign artists. I stopped to appreciate a painting or sculpture, feeling the emotions and thoughts conveyed by artists through their works. The exhibition hall design of the art museum is also very distinctive, utilizing the changes in light, shadow, and space to create a unique artistic atmosphere. I wandered inside for a long time, as if immersed in an ocean of art, and every piece of work amazed me.
Zhihua Temple: A tranquil ancient temple in the bustling city
In the bustling city of Beijing, Zhihua Temple is like a peaceful sanctuary. This temple was first built in the Ming Dynasty, with a long history and an ancient and elegant architectural style.
Entering the temple, a solemn and dignified aura filled my face. The Buddha statues in the temple are solemn and dignified, and the murals are brightly colored, each showcasing the superb skills of ancient craftsmen. I visited along the central axis of the temple one by one, listening to the melodious sound of the bell and chanting, and my heart gradually calmed down. In a corner of the temple, there is also a traditional Buddhist music performance, where performers use ancient instruments to play melodious melodies, making people feel as if they have traveled back to ancient times. I have been here for a long time, feeling this tranquility and peace, as if all my troubles have disappeared into thin air.
Food Experience: Authentic Beijing Flavors in Hutongs
How can you miss out on local cuisine while traveling in Beijing? Led by local friends, I walked into a food alley hidden in the alley.
There are many old Beijing style snack stalls, including delicious Zhajiangmian, steaming fermented sour milk made from ground mung bean wow gold coke rings, soft glutinous and sweet Lvdagur (Glutinous Rice Rolls with Sweet Bean Flour). I ordered a bowl of Zhajiangmian. The noodles were strong and chewy, and the smell of fried sauce was overflowing. They were paired with cucumber shreds, bean sprouts and other side dishes, and the taste was very authentic. I also plucked up the courage to taste a mouthful of fermented sour milk made from ground mung bean wow gold. The unique taste made me unforgettable all my life. Although it was a bit hard to accept at the beginning, it had a different flavor when I tasted it carefully. Here, I tasted the most authentic Beijing cuisine and experienced the lifestyle of old Beijingers.
This trip to Beijing has become even more colorful with the addition of these niche tourist destinations. I not only experienced the historical, cultural, and artistic charm of Beijing, but also tasted authentic Beijing cuisine. If you are also tired of those crowded popular Beijing tourist spots, why not come and explore these niche places, I believe you will discover a different Beijing. Come and embark on your niche journey in Beijing!
Related Posts
Create Your Customized Trip
Take about 2 minutes to fill the form to tell us how you like to travel, and get a reply within 1 working day.
