Shichahai Scenic Area

The Shichahai Scenic Area encompasses three lakes—Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai—along with their surrounding neighborhoods. It stretches from the north side of Di'anmen Outer Street in the east to Xinjiekou North Street in the south, Xinjiekou Huokou in the west, and the Bell and Drum Towers in the north. This picturesque waterfront district is one of Beijing's most iconic historic quarters, dotted with former residences of notable figures, princely mansions, and other cultural relics. The area also boasts diverse local cuisine and vibrant nightlife, with Houhai Bar Street being a legendary hub for evening entertainment.

Take a cruise this summer

Upon your first visit to Shichahai Scenic Area, you'll immediately be captivated by the vast shimmering lake. The lakeside offers a refreshing retreat in summer when lotus flowers bloom, perfect for enjoying the scenery on a cruise. Numerous piers line the lake, including Dreamlike Jiangnan Pier and Lotus Market Pier at Qianhai, as well as Wild Duck Island Pier and Willow Shade Ferry Pier at Houhai – all offering delightful cruise experiences.

Enjoy pedal boats and rowboats at your own pace, or opt for a guided sightseeing tour on a traditional punt boat that circles the lake in about 1 hour. The boatman will also provide a guide to the attractions in Shichahai Scenic Area.

Ice skating on the lake in winter

In winter when the lake freezes over, cruises are suspended but visitors can still enjoy the winter scenery. Once the ice reaches sufficient thickness, the Shichahai Ice Rink (Qianhai section) opens on the lake, offering skate and ice bike rentals.

Explore ancient architecture

The ancient architecture around Shichahai Scenic Area preserves the authentic charm of old Beijing. Attractions include the Temple of Huishui, Deshengmen Arrow Tower, Prince Chun's Mansion, Guanghua Temple, Yinding Bridge, and the Bell and Drum Towers.

Among the most famous is Prince Gong's Mansion, the former residence of Heshen, located on Qianhai West Street. Besides marveling at the opulent home of the Qing Dynasty's corrupt official Heshen, the mansion also houses over 10,000 "fu" (blessing) characters. The "Fu" character stele, personally inscribed by Emperor Kangxi, is so renowned that visitors are willing to queue for a long time just to see it.

If interested, you can also detour to Yandai Xiejie to visit the Great Qing Post Office, which marks the birth of modern postal service in China. At the post office, you can stamp beautifully designed postmarks as souvenirs—just remember to purchase postcards from the post office first for stamping.

Try some authentic Beijing snacks

If you're in the mood for casual snacks, grab a candied hawthorn stick and lean against the marble railings of Shichahai Scenic Area while enjoying the view of cruises gliding across the lake. For authentic Beijing street food, head to Huguo Temple Snack Street west of Mei Lanfang Memorial Hall, where you'll find delights like Guan's Chicken Wings, imperial cheese, and shoe sole pancakes—all bursting with hutong flavors. Don't miss the Quanjude Roast Duck restaurant in Lotus Market either.

Nightlife & bars

As night falls, the lively atmosphere begins. Melodies drift from the numerous bars surrounding Shichahai Scenic Area, where some talented bar singers truly shine—each performance carrying stories of Beijing's migrant dreamers. Notable bars like Hutong Sketch and Jiadingfang offer perfect spots to unwind. Grab a seat, enjoy the performances, and you might just hear the passion of these northern drifters echoing through every note.

Nearby attractions

Shichahai Scenic Area borders Nanluoguxiang to the east and Beihai Park to the south, with Jingshan Park, the Palace Museum, and Tiananmen Square located just a bit further south. A typical itinerary involves visiting the Palace Museum or Tiananmen Square during the day, then unwinding at Shichahai's bars in the evening. If you prefer lakeside views over imperial landmarks, combine Beihai Park with Shichahai for your excursion. For those focused on shopping and street food, continue your adventure from Shichahai to neighboring Nanluoguxiang.