Beijing: Hutongs and Lakes Free Tour

This tour is operated by our partner Free Tours China.

Welcome to a side of Beijing where stories linger in every brick, and time folds into alleyways. In just 3 hours, this walk invites you into the city's most intimate spaces—its hutongs, the ancient residential alleyways that date back to the Yuan Dynasty. These narrow paths and interconnected courtyards reveal Beijing’s human-scale history, layered with generations of rituals, revolutions, and rice dumplings.

The journey kicks off on Beijing’s Historic Local Snack Street, where flavors speak louder than words. You’ll then step into the Mei Lanfang Memorial Courtyard Museum, a beautifully preserved tribute to China’s legendary opera star (entry fee: 10 RMB/pp, paid onsite). Along the way, you’ll pass landmarks like the Former Fu Jen Catholic University site and Prince Qing’s Mansion. We’ll uncover numerous historical courtyard residences, where old Beijing lives on in red doors and stone lions.

Then, stroll through the serene Shichahai Neighborhood, a scenic pocket of lakeside life that blends ancient royalty with today’s casual charm. From the lively Houhai Bar Street to the tranquil Fire God Taoist Temple, this walk is a perfect mix of spiritual calm and modern buzz. Finally, you’ll see the oldest bridge in Beijing and wrap up with views of the Bell and Drum Towers, once used to keep the city's rhythm.

This isn’t just a walk through Beijing’s backstreets, it’s a time-traveling stroll through the city’s heartbeat. As the echoes of old bells fade and the lake breeze lingers, you’ll leave with more than photos—Beijing’s stories will follow you.

A note on our tours in China

Free walking tours are about building bridges, not walls. They’re a unique opportunity to connect with local people, learn from different perspectives, and experience a city through the eyes of those who call it home.

That said, it’s important to keep in mind that history is often viewed through a local lens. Some topics may be presented differently depending on where you’re from, and certain subjects may not be openly discussed due to local laws and cultural norms.

Our partners in China are experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing the country’s rich heritage—from dynasties and revolutions to food culture and daily life. While not every topic can be covered in full, historical accuracy and storytelling remain at the heart of every tour.

We appreciate your understanding and invite you to come with an open mind—and maybe leave with a new perspective.