The walking route from Sanlitun to Liangma River is a delightful journey that will make you fall in love over and over again. Whether it’s spring, summer, autumn, or winter, the views along this route offer a unique charm. Here, you can explore a mix of global cuisines, visit art galleries with diverse styles, enjoy distinctive coffees, and shop for the latest trends in high-end fashion. You can also take a peaceful stroll along the Liangma River, immersing yourself in a cosmopolitan and fashionable atmosphere.
Route Overview
The walking route spans 3.5 kilometers, starting from Beijing Institute of Technology (Beijing Jidianyuan) to Liangma River’s southern bank. It follows the streets and bike lanes, making it ideal for both walking and cycling. The route takes you through bustling shopping areas, delightful food spots, and tranquil riverbanks.
Beijing Institute of Technology (北京机电院)
The walk begins at Beijing Institute of Technology, located just a few hundred meters from Sanlitun. Although this area is often overlooked, it’s home to several trendy stores and hidden gems. You’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes offering international cuisines, including Spanish, Italian, Mexican, as well as Japanese, hotpot, BBQ, and Hong Kong-style desserts. For food lovers, this is a must-visit spot. In addition, there are unique boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy jewelry stores to explore.
Sanlitun Taikoo Li (三里屯太古里)
A short walk from the Beijing Institute of Technology (about 400 meters) will bring you to the iconic Sanlitun Taikoo Li, one of Beijing’s most popular shopping centers. Here, you’ll find a diverse range of international brands.
- South Area: Home to several mid-range luxury and trendy brands, as well as popular restaurants like Adidas, B&C Butter & Bread, and China’s first Apple retail store.
- North Area: Features high-end luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton (LV), Dior, and Balenciaga.
- West Area: Offers athletic and casual brands like Uniqlo, Nike, and Descente.
Happy Village Fifth Alley (幸福三村五巷)
Unlike Taikoo Li, Happy Village Fifth Alley has a more artistic and atmospheric vibe. This street is full of cafes, boutique stores, record shops, and bookstores, making it perfect for those who love photography and want to capture unique moments. Notable spots include:
- FFF Creative Private Kitchen: This place offers monthly surprise dishes by guest chefs in a beautifully designed space.
- Postpost: A stylish mixed-space where you can enjoy a rich sensory experience, featuring various creative elements.
- ANCHORET: A comprehensive boutique store that often holds pop-up events.
Sanlitun North Alley (三里屯北小街)
Located near the embassy district, Sanlitun North Alley offers a rare tranquil escape in the heart of Beijing. With its tree-lined streets, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful walk. Here, you can discover charming cake shops, cafes, and Western restaurants with foreign influences. The unique architecture of the nearby embassies adds to the exotic atmosphere, making it a great spot to unwind and indulge in the local flavors.
Liangma River South Bank (亮马河南岸)
The final destination of the route is the south bank of Liangma River, an area perfect for relaxing and appreciating nature. The sunset views along the river are absolutely stunning, and the recommended time to visit is around 4:00 PM when the sun sets. There are several cafes along the river, where you can stop, enjoy a coffee, and admire the peaceful view. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal location to unwind after a day of exploring.