Step into Ba Da Hu Tong (Eight Great Lanes) and time-travel to old Beijing! Once the playground of Qing Dynasty opera stars and literati, these grey-brick courtyards and maze-like alleys ooze authentic charm. Don't miss the intricate carvings on gate arches, grab candied hawthorns from street vendors, and eavesdrop on locals' lively chats – this living museum of 'hutong culture' will steal your heart!

This hotel boasts a prime location right next to the National Library, just 1 minute walk to the subway, with easy access to Beijing Zoo, Forbidden City and other attractions! Designed by an international team, it features arty and trendy aesthetics with retro yet smart rooms, signature scents and imported toiletries for ultimate comfort. Enjoy 24-hour front desk, fitness center, valet parking and more. Perfect for both business and leisure. What's most touching is their service philosophy: "We care not just how high you fly, but how tired you are"—truly heartwarming!
Everything you need to know about Eight Great Hutongs
Waldorf Astoria Beijing is a top choice, located just a 15-minute walk from the historic Eight Huts. This luxury hotel blends modern elegance with traditional Chinese design, offering elegant guest rooms and personalized butler service. Its on-site restaurant serves authentic Peking cuisine, allowing guests to immerse in local culture while enjoying premium comfort.
Another excellent option is Beijing Qianmen Hotel, nestled within the historic district with a century-old architectural heritage. The hotel features restored Qing Dynasty-style interiors, combining authentic courtyard aesthetics with contemporary amenities. It’s only an 8-minute walk to the Eight Huts, ideal for exploring traditional siheyuan courtyards and intangible cultural heritage sites.
Both properties offer complimentary shuttle services to major attractions like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, ensuring seamless access and a stress-free journey.
The most convenient route from Beijing South Station is taking Subway Line 4 to Xidan Station, then transferring to Line 1 and getting off at Qianmen Station—total travel time around 30 minutes. Exit the station and walk along Zhengyangmen Avenue for about 10 minutes to reach the heart of the Eight Huts.
For a more comfortable option, book a private car transfer, which takes approximately 25 minutes and costs around 120 RMB. The route follows the South Second Ring Road, avoiding traffic congestion. Many high-end hotels, such as Waldorf Astoria Beijing, offer complimentary shuttle services—just reserve in advance to enjoy direct drop-off at the hutong entrance, enhancing both convenience and luxury experience.
In the Eight Huts, visitors can enjoy a range of authentic cultural experiences: first, join a Peking Opera workshop led by seasoned performers, where you’ll learn basic movements and vocal techniques to truly appreciate this classical art form.
Next, visit a courtyard calligraphy studio inside a traditional siheyuan, where you can practice writing couplets or your name with ink brushes—a memorable keepsake to take home.
You can also book a night walking tour through the historic alleys, dressed in Hanfu, listening to stories about old Beijing life from local guides while sampling street snacks like zhajiangmian and douzhi (fermented soybean juice).
Other immersive activities include folk paper-cutting classes and traditional tea ceremonies, all hosted by resident artisans. These experiences are concentrated in the Qianmen district, easily accessible and highly recommended—book in advance to secure your spot.
Beijing Qianmen Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the Eight Huts district. This boutique hotel blends authentic Beijing siheyuan architecture with modern amenities, featuring traditional carved windows, hardwood furniture, and cultural-themed rooms that reflect old Beijing’s charm. The hotel offers exclusive guided tours into the surrounding alleyways, providing deep insights into Hutong culture and intangible heritage.
Another excellent option is Mercure Beijing Tiananmen, situated about 1.2 km away. With its contemporary Chinese design and convenient access to public transit, it balances comfort and location for travelers seeking both ease and authenticity. Both properties ensure an immersive experience in Beijing’s historic heart.
The most efficient route from Beijing Capital International Airport to the Eight Huts district is taking the Airport Express to Dongzhimen Station, then transferring to Subway Line 13 to Qianmen Station, a 8-minute walk away. The journey takes about 50 minutes and costs around 40 RMB. For greater convenience, consider HopeGoo a private car transfer, which takes approximately 45 minutes and costs 200–300 RMB, offering door-to-door service without transfers. Early morning flights are recommended to avoid rush-hour traffic and maximize time for exploring the historic Hutong neighborhoods.
Must-try experiences in the Eight Huts include attending an immersive Peking Opera performance at historic venues like Guanghe Lou, where you’ll witness the artistry of intangible cultural heritage. Join a guided hutong walking tour led by local residents, uncovering Qing Dynasty architecture, family histories, and daily life in old Beijing. Savor authentic Peking-style zhajiangmian and douzhi with jiaoquan at neighborhood eateries for a true taste of local flavor. You can also participate in hands-on workshops such as paper-cutting or calligraphy, creating personal souvenirs while engaging deeply with Beijing’s cultural roots.
See what other travelers say about Eight Great Hutongs

Staying at Xana Hotel near Tiananmen Square and Qianmen Pedestrian Street was an absolute delight. The hotel feels brand new—clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed with a quiet elegance. Check-in was quick and smooth thanks to the friendly and efficient front desk staff, especially Xiao X, who made us feel welcome right away. The room was spacious and bright, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The bathroom is well-designed with a clear dry/wet separation, and all toiletries were neatly stocked—no need to bring your own. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just a short walk to major landmarks like Tiananmen Square and Qianmen, yet surrounded by peaceful streets. It's perfectly balanced between convenience and tranquility. Every little detail shows care—from the lighting to the minibar selection. For the price, the value is outstanding. I’ll definitely be coming back on my next business trip to Beijing. Highly recommended!

I can't say enough good things about this hotel! The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful—always smiling and ready to assist with any request. Location-wise, it's perfect: just a short walk from Dongzhimen subway station and super close to Sanlitun for shopping and dining. I found the place easy to locate, and getting around to major attractions was a breeze. The room was spotless, with clean linens, a comfortable bed, and a well-maintained bathroom. Everything felt fresh and well-cared for. For the price, the value is outstanding. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit Beijing—and I’ve already told friends about it.

Staying at Beijing Jinlin Hotel was an absolute delight! The front desk staff went above and beyond—gave us a complimentary room upgrade, and the space was surprisingly spacious and comfortable. I especially loved the shower: strong water pressure and perfect temperature, making every evening soak feel like a mini spa treatment. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day exploring the city. The housekeeping team was incredibly friendly too—always smiling and greeting guests with warmth. You can tell they genuinely care about creating a welcoming atmosphere. Cleanliness and attention to detail were top-notch throughout the stay. I’d definitely come back again. Just one little suggestion: if they could add free bath mats in each room, it would be even more perfect! Definitely worth recommending to friends and colleagues—this is exactly the kind of hotel that makes travel enjoyable.

If you're transferring through Beijing South Railway Station, this hotel is an excellent choice. It's incredibly close—just a 15-minute walk from the station, and even more convenient if you're arriving by subway. I've stayed here multiple times, and every visit has been consistently clean, well-maintained, and professionally managed. Though it’s been around for years, the property has been thoughtfully updated with modern touches like keycard elevators and robot delivery service—both practical and reassuring. The staff, especially front desk agent Xiao Yang on floor 609, stood out for their genuine warmth and attention to detail. They went above and beyond to accommodate requests without hesitation. The room was spotless, the air conditioning worked perfectly, and the overall atmosphere felt safe and comfortable. With its unbeatable location, great cleanliness, and exceptional hospitality, this hotel offers outstanding value. Highly recommended—definitely a place I’d return to.

The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from major attractions, and public transportation options like buses and the subway are super convenient. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, calming atmosphere that made it easy to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Breakfast was a highlight—abundant variety and delicious flavors, especially the homemade bread and warm porridge. The lobby and common areas have a beautifully traditional design with a classic charm that really stands out. Best of all, the staff greeted guests warmly from the moment you step in—friendly, polite, and attentive without being intrusive. It truly feels like coming home. I also loved how close we were to Jingshan Park; just a 10-minute walk, and the view of the Forbidden City from the top is absolutely breathtaking. Overall, this was an exceptional stay. I’d definitely book again next time I visit Beijing.

This hotel completely exceeded my expectations! Located right in the heart of Nanluoguxiang, it’s surprisingly peaceful despite being surrounded by all the hustle and bustle. I stayed in the courtyard king room, and the moment I stepped in, I was captivated by the unique design. Lying in bed, I could see the open sky through the adjustable skylight — so serene and inspiring. The rooftop terrace is a real highlight, offering fantastic views and complete privacy. Even in winter, the room stayed cozy thanks to the underfloor heating — no chilly floors at all. The staff were incredibly thoughtful too; they helped carry our luggage upstairs without hesitation. And if you’re ever hungry, the ground-floor dining area serves up warm, comforting meals anytime — I had a steaming bowl of noodles that hit the spot. From the ambiance to the service, everything felt personal and authentic. A truly memorable stay, and I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at Beijing Asia Hotel was one of the best decisions I made for my trip to Beijing! The location is perfect—just steps away from subway stations and major shopping areas, making it super easy to explore the city. The room was immaculate, fresh, and free of any odd smells. Everything was well-maintained, from the bedding to the bathroom fixtures—comfortable and modern. The staff were attentive, professional, and always ready to help. Special shoutout to Manager Wang Pei at the front desk—so friendly, proactive, and genuinely welcoming. She even offered local tips and a small gift, which made the stay feel extra special. This hotel offers incredible value for money, and honestly, I’d choose it again without hesitation if I’m ever back in Beijing.

We stayed at Huale Song Hotel (Xidan Financial Street) during our trip to Beijing to catch a concert, and it was an excellent choice. The hotel is literally steps away from the subway station, making commuting super convenient—whether we were heading to the venue or exploring the city. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with everything we needed for a relaxing stay. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit. The location, service, and overall experience earned us a perfect score. We’ll definitely consider this hotel again on future trips to Beijing.

Staying at this hotel for nearly two weeks was an absolute delight. My parents were thoroughly impressed with every aspect of the service. My mom has mild cleanliness preferences, and she was particularly grateful—the room was spotless throughout our stay. Special thanks to housekeeper Xiao Wu for his exceptional attention to detail. The entire staff went above and beyond with their warmth and professionalism. It’s clear that genuine care is at the heart of their hospitality. This kind of service truly makes a lasting impression. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to others.

I stayed at Xingyi Hotel for one night and was genuinely impressed. The room was spotlessly clean, well-maintained, and felt very comfortable. Location-wise, it’s perfect—just a short walk from Temple of Heaven Park and the General Administration of Sport, tucked away on a quiet side street that keeps you far from the noisy main roads. It's also just a 10-minute walk to the subway station, making travel around Beijing super convenient. All amenities are modern and well-kept. I loved the robot delivery service—it added a fun, futuristic touch. The gas-powered water heater worked perfectly with consistent temperature and strong flow, ideal for a relaxing shower. The bed was surprisingly comfortable, offering good support without being too firm. But what truly stood out was the excellent soundproofing. As someone who struggles with sleep due to noise sensitivity, this was a game-changer. I slept deeply all night without any disturbances. For its price point, the value is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again when visiting Beijing.

Staying at Hotel Éclat Beijing was an absolutely delightful experience. From the moment I walked in, the artistic ambiance set a sophisticated tone—thoughtful design details throughout the lobby and guest rooms made it feel both modern and inviting. The room itself was spacious, impeccably furnished, and packed with all the amenities I needed for a comfortable stay. Special shoutout to Rina Stark at reception—her professionalism and genuine care made a huge difference. She responded promptly to every request and went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient—just minutes from subway lines, making it easy to explore downtown Beijing and nearby attractions. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers exceptional value and service. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

Staying at Jialong Hotel (Beijing Chaoyangmen Branch) during my visit to Beijing for medical treatment was a great choice. The hotel is exceptionally clean—every corner feels well-maintained and hygienic, which made me feel safe and comfortable throughout my stay. The self-service breakfast was a highlight: generous variety with both Chinese and Western options, fresh and delicious. I especially appreciated the quality and diversity of the food. The only minor downside was that my room was in Building C on the 4th floor, requiring a bit of walking up stairs—especially after a long day. However, this didn’t overshadow the overall experience. The price was very reasonable for the comfort and location, and the hotel’s proximity to public transport made commuting easy. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a clean, affordable, and convenient base in Beijing.
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