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Tourism GuideA field guide to China

Beijing · Attraction

Shichahai Lakes

A historic water paradise in the heart of Beijing featuring three interconnected lakes surrounded by ancient hutongs, traditional courtyard homes, and vibrant cultural life

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Shichahai Lakes
Beijing, ChinaField notes · Attraction
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Why go

About Shichahai Lakes

Shichahai Lakes also known as Houhai is a scenic area in central Beijing comprising three interconnected lakes Qianhai Front Sea Houhai Back Sea and Xihai West Sea This historic water system dates back to the Yuan Dynasty 12711368 and was once part of the Grand Canals northern terminus The area preserves traditional Beijing architecture with ancient hutongs narrow alleyways courtyard homes siheyuan and historic mansions surrounding the lakes Shichahai offers a unique blend of natural beauty cultural heritage and modern entertainment with traditional teahouses lakeside bars restaurants and boutique shops lining the waterfront The area is particularly famous for its willowlined banks lotus flowers in summer and ice skating in winter making it a yearround destination that captures the essence of old Beijing while embracing contemporary urban life

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Take a traditional rickshaw tour through the ancient hutongs surrounding the lakes
  2. 02Rent a paddle boat or take a guided boat tour to explore the interconnected lakes
  3. 03Visit Prince Gongs Mansion one of Beijings bestpreserved Qing Dynasty royal residences
  4. 04Explore the historic Yandai Xie Street Tobacco Pouch Lane with its traditional architecture
  5. 05Enjoy ice skating on the frozen lakes during winter months December to February
  6. 06Experience traditional Chinese tea culture at one of the many lakeside teahouses
  7. 07Sample local Beijing snacks like jianbing savory crepes and tanghulu candied hawthorn
  8. 08Visit the Bell and Drum Towers nearby for panoramic views of the historic area
  9. 09Take photography tours capturing traditional courtyard homes and lakeside scenery
  10. 10Enjoy evening entertainment at the lively Houhai bar street with live music venues

Good to know

Historical Period
Yuan Dynasty to Present
Total Area
1467 hectares
Water Surface Area
34 hectares
Best Visiting Season
Spring and Autumn
UNESCO Status
Part of Beijing Central Axis World Heritage Buffer Zone
Architectural Style
Traditional Beijing Siheyuan Courtyard Houses
Main Lakes
Qianhai Houhai Xihai
Transportation
Subway Line 8 Shichahai Station

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