A hutong is a narrow alley or lane. It also refers to an area of Beijing that lies north of the Imperial City where these alleys have been preserved. There are rickshaw tours that take you through the narrow alleys (the rickshaw tour reminds me of the carriage ride through Central Park in New York City – you only see tourists on the ride, unless a local person is going with his friends).
Our tour also stopped at a private Siheyuan (a quadrangle of four houses). The main house is located on the north side of the quadrangle. This is where the parents sleep. The east and west houses are usually for the children (including grown children) and also can contain a kitchen and a bathroom. The south house is like a den and/or study (and a place for the family to gather in inclement weather). The family usually gathers and eats in the courtyard. Smaller Siheyuan have 2 “stars” over the door (I can’t remember the Chinese name), while larger Siheyuan have 4 “stars” over the door.
Near the Hutong, there is a lake around which many restaurants and bars are now located. It has become an after work hangout to cool off and relax. We also took a boat ride on the lake. Some people get the restaurants to deliver a meal to the boat and also hire an entertainer to play traditional Chinese music while they dine.
Starbucks : )
