Tourism GuideShichahai 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
Key Information
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
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
Things to Do
- Take a traditional rickshaw tour through the ancient hutongs surrounding the lakes
- Rent a paddle boat or take a guided boat tour to explore the interconnected lakes
- Visit Prince Gongs Mansion one of Beijings bestpreserved Qing Dynasty royal residences
- Explore the historic Yandai Xie Street Tobacco Pouch Lane with its traditional architecture
- Enjoy ice skating on the frozen lakes during winter months December to February
- Experience traditional Chinese tea culture at one of the many lakeside teahouses
- Sample local Beijing snacks like jianbing savory crepes and tanghulu candied hawthorn
- Visit the Bell and Drum Towers nearby for panoramic views of the historic area
- Take photography tours capturing traditional courtyard homes and lakeside scenery
- Enjoy evening entertainment at the lively Houhai bar street with live music venues