Ximeichang Hutong

Wander through Ximei Chang Hutong where Beijing's soul lingers in every brick. Once a coal transport route, this alley now whispers stories through crumbling grey walls draped in ivy and carved stone doorsteps of siheyuan courtyards. Don't miss the unassuming dairy shop at the alley's end – their imperial-style yogurt with osmanthus syrup is like tasting a grandmother's secret recipe, best enjoyed while watching locals play xiangqi under ancient locust trees.