Shichahai and Houhai Lakes

Shichahai is the name for three connected lakes in north-central Beijing: Qianhai, Houhai and Xihai. The area's history goes back to the Jin dynasty, and under the Yuan dynasty it was the northern end of the Grand Canal, which linked the capital with Hangzhou far to the south. In 1992 it was declared a historical and cultural scenic area. Today it is one of the best places in the city to walk among old lanes and lakeside paths, with several historic residences close to the water.

The classic route starts on Yandai Xiejie and crosses Yinding Bridge, the Silver Ingot Bridge, between Qianhai and Houhai. From there paths follow the lakeshores past bars, cafés and restaurants. Prince Gong's Mansion, one of the two best-known royal mansions in the area, and the Former Residence of Soong Ching-ling are both close to the lakes, and the Drum and Bell Towers stand nearby on Beijing's central axis.

The Xicheng district government has set out several themed walking routes around the lakes. A classic route runs from Yandai Xiejie over Yinding Bridge and Desheng Bridge to Prince Gong's Mansion, while a World Heritage route starts at the Bell and Drum Towers and crosses Wanning Bridge and Jinding Bridge to the Guo Shoujing Memorial. A cultural route links the Mei Lanfang Memorial Museum with the former site of Fu Jen Catholic University.

Rickshaw tours are a traditional way to see the area. According to the Xicheng district government, the upgraded rickshaw hutong tours pass Prince Kung's Mansion, Soong Ching-ling's former residence, Yinding Bridge and the Drum Tower, with pullers explaining the history along the way and stops at time-honoured restaurants such as Tongheju and Makai and at a tea house on the central axis.

In winter many people skate on the frozen lakes. Evenings are lively, with bars and live music around Houhai; the East Shore Live Jazz Café is one of the area's long-running venues. The Lost Plate evening food tour also starts at Shichahai station on Line 8, which is the most convenient stop. Allow at least half a day to walk the lakes and side lanes. The area suits couples, photographers and anyone who wants to see a more lived-in side of old Beijing than the major monuments.