What is the best way to visit Hutong, explore on my own or take a guided Hutong Tour Beijing?
You can do either way. However, hiring a guide would make your trip more interesting and easier. The guide knows the route very well, which may save you much time on walking or hunting for food. He/she will explain and tell you stories about Hutong, which will enhance your knowledge on it. If you have enough time, we suggest you do a guided trip first, and then spend time on your own to explore the area freely. If you have a short time such as 1 to 2 hours, a guided trip would be better to make full use of your time.
Which part of Hutong is the best to go?
There are many Hutongs in Beijing and the most popular ones are Nanluoguxiang and Yandaixiejie, which are very prosperous and full of shops, restaurants and bars. For first time travelers, they are always the first choices for a Beijing Hutong tour. The two Hutongs are close to each other and you can explore both in one time. If you prefer others which are more authentic and have less tourists, you may visit Wudaoying Hutong, Liulichang Culture Street or Dongjiaomin Lane.
Are there any activities that children are interested in?
Hutong is a perfect place for children to visit. The activities here are rich and varied. You may take a rickshaw tour Beijing or hire a bike to ride through the alleys. If you are interested, you may also join the activities like dumpling making, cooking class, learning Chinese folk art like papercutting, Chinese knot, Peking opera mask painting, traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy and so on.
What is the best time of the day to visit Hutong?
You can visit Hutong anytime of the day from morning till night. While it is more alive from noontime. If you would like to experience a rickshaw ride or any other activities, better to arrange it before 16:00 as they will be off duty after that time. But if you just want to enjoy the food and bars, night would be better.
Is it easy to hire a rickshaw or bike at Hutong area?
Yes, it is easy. The rickshaw can be found at Shichahai area. They have different routes at different prices so it is advisable to check with them first before you pay.
You may rent bike at Houhai, Yindingqiao and Shichahai. They will charge you some deposit and the rental fee is around CNY30 per person. Please remember to keep the receipt, which is necessary to get your deposit back while returning the bike.
