Shichahai, located in the heart of Beijing, is a historic area that encompasses three lakes: Qianhai (前海), Houhai (后海), and Xihai (西海). It’s one of the city’s largest and best-preserved historical districts, offering a blend of ancient culture, beautiful scenery, and a variety of activities. This one-day tour will take you through charming old alleys (hutongs), scenic waterfronts, and notable landmarks. Whether you’re interested in history, local food, or simply a peaceful day by the water, Shichahai has something for everyone.
Starting Point: Shichahai Metro Station (Line 8)
Begin your adventure by getting off at Shichahai Station on Metro Line 8. The first stop is Yandaixie Street (烟袋斜街), an old and bustling hutong famous for its unique shops and street food. This alley is full of life, with local snacks and souvenirs at every turn, making it a lively introduction to the area.
Explore Houhai and Surroundings
After exploring Yandaixie Street, head north along Houhai North Shore (后海北沿), a scenic path that takes you through some of Shichahai’s most popular sites. Along this route, you’ll encounter Bar Street, known for its lively nightlife, where you can enjoy live music in the evening. You can also visit the Wanghai Tower (望海楼), which offers stunning views over the lakes.
Next, don’t miss the historic Prince Chun Mansion (醇王府), a grand residence that was once home to the imperial family. Nearby, you can also visit the Former Residence of Soong Ching-ling (宋庆龄故居), which provides a glimpse into the life of one of China’s most famous women, who played a pivotal role in the country’s political history.
Relax at Xihai
After soaking in the history and lively atmosphere of Houhai, take a stroll around Xihai (西海), the quietest of the three lakes. This area is perfect for those who want a peaceful break from the busy city streets. The tranquility of Xihai offers a perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Visit Wild Duck Island
Returning to Houhai, make your way to Wild Duck Island (野鸭岛), a small island where you can see ducks swimming in the lake. Bring some bread along to feed them – it’s a fun and peaceful activity for visitors of all ages. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a boat here and enjoy a leisurely ride across the water, admiring the scenic views along the shore.
The boat rides at Shichahai are not to be missed! The dock at Dibai Boat Pier (地百游船码头) offers two types of electric boats: a four-person boat for 220 RMB per hour and a six-person boat for 280 RMB per hour. You can also opt for a four-person pedal boat at 150 RMB per hour. Boat rides run from 9 AM to 11 PM, allowing for both daytime and evening cruises.
Discover Prince Gong Mansion and Yinding Bridge
From Houhai, take a short walk to Prince Gong Mansion (恭王府), a well-preserved residence with beautiful gardens and courtyards. It’s one of the best places in Beijing to appreciate traditional Chinese architecture and gardens.
Next, make your way to Yinding Bridge (银锭桥), an iconic stone bridge that connects Qianhai and Houhai. The view from the bridge is especially stunning, with reflections of the surrounding willow trees and historic buildings dancing on the water’s surface. From here, you can either continue to Lotus Market (荷花市场), a lively area filled with street vendors and local snacks, or head to Beihai Park (北海公园), another famous Beijing attraction.
Optional Extension: Beihai Park
If you still have energy left, consider a visit to Beihai Park, just a short walk away from Shichahai. The park is home to beautiful lakes, pavilions, and the famous White Dagoba (白塔). Note that an entrance fee is required, and if you enter through the North Gate, you won’t be able to exit through the West or South Gates, so plan your visit accordingly.
Fun Activities in Shichahai
- Boat Rides: Experience the charm of Shichahai by taking a boat ride, which allows you to see the area from a unique perspective. Glide across the water and imagine what it was like for emperors in ancient times to sail through these very waters.
- Rickshaw Tour: If you prefer staying on land, hop on a rickshaw for a ride around the hutongs. Your rickshaw driver will share stories about the area’s rich history as you travel through Beijing’s narrow, ancient streets.
Local Delicacies
Shichahai is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also for its wide variety of food options. You can enjoy traditional Beijing cuisine like hotpot (涮肉), roasted duck (烤鸭), grilled skewers (烤肉串), and fried noodles (炸酱面). For snacks, don’t miss sugar-coated hawthorn (冰糖葫芦), a local favorite, or fried tripe (毛肚) and sesame biscuits (烧饼). There are also modern coffee shops like Starbucks and Bawang Chaji (霸王茶姬), offering a mix of old and new flavors. A hidden gem is Sugar House Café (糖房咖啡), which has a stunning outdoor seating area with great views.
Winter Surprise: Ice Skating
If you’re visiting Shichahai in winter, you’re in for a special treat! The lakes freeze over and transform into a giant ice skating rink. Rent some skates and enjoy a fun day on the ice with friends—it’s a unique and exciting way to experience Beijing in the colder months.