Think Kampung Lorong Buangkok. That’s what a Beijing Hutong is like: a 700-year-old neighbourhood with narrow lanes between rows of single-level properties. In the past, these buildings were called Siheyuan. They still stand today, and the neighbourhood is filled with a variety of cafés, shops, and restaurants.
For the best Beijing Hutong experience, check out these five properties, in a list specially curated by Singapore Airlines.
aman at summer palace
This Imperial-style resort recalls the opulence of the Qing Dynasty. The property is home to 51 elegantly furnished rooms and suites with period furniture, bamboo blinds, wooden roof beams and polished clay tiles, along with all modern amenities. There’s also a selection of three restaurants which serve delectable Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisine.
Address: 1 Gongmenqian Street, Haidian District, Bejing, China
duge courtyard hotel
DuGe Courtyard Hotel has a quirky interior design that includes ornate Baccarat chandeliers, and bespoke Chinese and Western furnishings. This property has seven themed rooms, two of which – the Peony room and the White House room – are the ones to look out for. The former has bright red shades that complement a refined Shanghainese decor, while the latter has a white and gold decor which imparts a chic vibe.
Address: 26 Qianyuanensi Hutong, Nan Luogu Xiang, DongchengDistrict, Beijing, China
Beijing Templeside Lianlian Hutong Guest House
In addition to its attractive pricing, this guesthouse is close to a metro station, so many of Beijing’s landmarks are just 15 to 20 minutes away. The guesthouse also has seven air-conditioned rooms that can cater to both small and large group of travellers like backpackers and families.
Address: 8 An Ping Alley, Zhaodeng Yu Road, Beijing, China
The Orchid Hotel
Expect ten well-appointed rooms around the small cobbled courtyard with narrow wooden stairs leading up to the different levels. All ten rooms of the hotel have tiny private gardens and under-floor heating. The property also has a rooftop terrace that offers amazing views of Beijing’s Bell and Drum Towers as well as a lovely spot for an evening drink.
Address: 65 Baochao Hutong, Gulou Dong Da Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
Han’s Royal Garden Beijing
Situated a stone’s throw away from the city’s main attractions like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Beijing Drum Tower, this traditional Chinese property is designed with preserved ornate red panelling, wooden beams, and an abundance of antiques scattered throughout the premise.
Address: 20 Qinlao Hutong (North Gate)/ 7 Beibingmasi Hutong (South Gate), Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
This article was first published in Lifestyle Asia.
