[caption id="attachment_1173" align="aligncenter" width="1179"] 南锣鼓巷牌坊 Nanluogu Xiang Archway[/caption]

What Makes Nanluoguxiang a Must-Visit Destination?

Nestled in Beijing’s old city, Nanluoguxiang is a 700-year-old hutong where ancient alleys meet modern flair. Here, past and present blend seamlessly, inviting you to wander, taste, and experience the heartbeat of Beijing. Stroll through Nanluoguxiang and unveil Beijing’s culture, from timeworn courtyards to vibrant street life, every step is a window into the city’s soul.  

How to Get There？& When to Entry?

• Subway: Take Line 6, Nanluoguxiang Station (Exit E), 5 minutes’ walk to main entrance.

[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] 6号线南锣鼓巷站 Nanluoguxiang Station of Metro Line 6[/caption]

• Bus: Multiple bus routes stop at Nanluoguxiang or nearby Drum Tower stops.
• Hours: The alley is open 24 hours, but shops and attractions usually run from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Tips: Nanluoguxiang itself is open to the public with no entrance fee. Some museums or old residences might charge a small fee (¥10–¥20).  

What Are the Best Routes and Must-See Scenes?

Considering the different needs and conditions of travelers, here are 3 different routes for tourists to choose from.

Top Itineraries for Every Traveler

     1. Classic Culture Walk (2.5–3 hours)

• Route: Nanluoguxiang Entrance → Yu’er Hutong → Mao’er Hutong → Qi Baishi Former Residence → Drum Tower
• For: First-timers, culture lovers
• No backtracking, just forward exploration!

     2. Family & Art Route (1.5–2 hours)

• Route: Nanluoguxiang Entrance → Ju’er Hutong → Central Academy of Drama → Maodun Former Residence → Bell & Drum Towers
• For: Families, art enthusiasts

      3. Foodie & Leisure Stroll (1–1.5 hours)

• Route: Nanluoguxiang Entrance → Explore side alleys → Snack shops → Boutique stores → Yandaixie Street → Houhai
• For: Foodies, leisure seekers

Five Unmissable Attractions

If you want to fully experience the charm of Nanluoguxiang, some must-see attractions cannot be ignored.

1. Drum Tower (Gulou)

Why: The beating heart of old Beijing, once marking time for the city. Details: Built in the Yuan Dynasty, the Drum Tower stands tall at Nanluoguxiang’s north end. Climb up for panoramic city views and catch a drum performance that echoes centuries of tradition.

      2. Qi Baishi Former Residence

Why: Step into the world of China’s most beloved painter. Details: This tranquil courtyard was home to Qi Baishi, whose brushwork shaped modern Chinese art. Admire his calligraphy, paintings, and the peaceful garden that inspired his masterpieces. [caption id="attachment_543" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] 齐白石故居 Qi Baishi's Former Residence[/caption]

      3. Central Academy of Drama

Why: China’s Broadway in a hutong! Details: The alma mater of countless Chinese stars, this academy pulses with creative energy. Wander the campus, spot rehearsal posters, and maybe glimpse students honing their craft.

       4. Yu’er Hutong

Why: A living gallery of Beijing’s hutong life. Details: Yu’er Hutong charms with its preserved siheyuan (courtyard homes), street art, and friendly locals. It’s the perfect spot for candid photos and soaking up authentic vibes.

       5. Maodun Former Residence

Why: Literary heritage in a classic setting. Details: Home to Maodun, a giant of Chinese literature, this site preserves his study and personal effects. Step inside to feel the intellectual spirit of early 20th-century Beijing.  

What Are the Local Restaurants You Can’t Miss in Nanluoguxiang?

[caption id="attachment_556" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] 南锣人家餐馆 Nanluorenjia Restaurant[/caption] In terms of food, there exists almost 3000 restaurants nearby Nanluoguxiang, ranging from street snacks to special dishes.

Fangzhuanchang 69 Hao Fried Sauce Noodles

1. Address: No. 69, Fangzhuanchang Hutong
2. Signature Dish: Fried Sauce Noodles (noodles with savory soybean paste)
3. Average Price: ¥35/person
4. Flavor: Umami, slightly salty—classic Beijing comfort

[caption id="attachment_549" align="aligncenter" width="1179"] 炸酱面面店 Fangzhuanchang 69 Hao Fried Sauce Noodles[/caption]

Yin San Douzhi Ice Cream

1. Address: Near Nanluoguxiang No. 108
2. Signature: Douzhi-flavored ice cream (fermented mung bean drink)
3. Average Price: ¥18/person
4. Flavor: Sour and creamy, a quirky local favorite

Ju’er Renjia

1. Address: No. 12, Ju’er Hutong
2. Signature: Beijing-style hotpot, local snacks
3. Average Price: ¥60/person
4. Flavor: Spicy, savory, customizable heat

 

What Are the Best Photo Hotspots and Activities You Can't Miss?

If you are a photography enthusiast, you will love this place; if you want to take a set of ancient style photos, you will also love this place; if you are an interesting person, you will definitely love this place!

Top Photo Spots

Here are some representative photo spots in Nanluoguxiang. Leave your photos here to prove that you have been to Nanluoguxiang.

“Nanluo” Wall (outside Yijing Café)

1. Location: Main street, Yijing Café exterior
2. Best Time: Morning for soft light
3. Tips: Face the wall for a shot with the iconic characters

[caption id="attachment_558" align="aligncenter" width="1179"] 南锣墙打卡地 “Nanluo” Wall for Photos[/caption]

Red Wall “Beijing” (outside Xiangyu Perfume Customization)

1. Location: Main street, Xiangyu Perfume entrance
2. Best Time: Late afternoon
3. Tips: Low angle for wall and street in one frame

[caption id="attachment_557" align="aligncenter" width="1179"] 北京红墙打卡地 "Beijing" Red Wall for Photos[/caption]

Gulou West Street Sign

1. Location: Intersection with Nanluoguxiang
2. Best Time: Early evening
3. Tips: Frame with Drum Tower in the background

Central Academy of Drama Gate

1. Location: Main entrance
2. Best Time: Daytime
3. Tips: Capture the lively student scene

Unique Experiences

Instead of hot spots, you can enjoy Chinese cultural and Chinese humor here!

• Stand-up Comedy: Laugh with locals at English-friendly comedy nights—China’s humor, up close!
• Handicraft Workshops: Try paper-cutting or clay figurines and bring home your own hutong art.
• Stamp Collection Hunt: Collect Nanluoguxiang-themed stamps from shops—fun, interactive, and a perfect souvenir.

 

Two Must-haves for Trip: Hotels and Transportation

When traveling to a new destination, it is very essential to get its hotels and transportation methods.

Accommodation by Distance/ Star Rating

Name	Star Level	Price/Night	Distance	Travel Time
Fuxue Qiuguo Hotel	★★★	¥970	0.3 km	4 min walk
Suise Place Hotel	★★★★	¥580	0.7 km	13 min walk
Ssaw Hotel	★★★★★	¥838	1.7 km	28 min metro

Getting There & Around

• Subway: Line 6 or 8 to Nanluoguxiang Station (Exit E). Trains every 5 min, fare ¥2–4, ~8 min from central Beijing.
• Taxi: ~4 min from downtown, fare ¥27–33.
• Ride-hailing: Use apps like DiDi for convenience.
• Self-driving: Not recommended—parking is tight, alleys are narrow.
• On Foot: Most attractions are walkable.

 

Nearby and Citywide Highlights

Close By (10–15 min)

• The Forbidden City (Palace Museum):

  • Why: China’s imperial heart, stunning architecture
  • How: Taxi, ~10 min from Nanluoguxiang
  • Visit Time: 2–3 hours

• Shichahai:

  • Why: Scenic lakes, lively bars, historic homes
  • How: Walk, ~15 min
  • Visit Time: 1–2 hours

• Yandaixie Street:

  • Why: Oldest commercial street, quirky shops
  • How: Walk, ~10 min
  • Visit Time: 1 hour

Other Beijing Icons

• Temple of Heaven:

  • Why: Ancient altar, UNESCO site
  • How: Subway Line 8, ~25 min
  • Visit Time: 1.5–2 hours

• Jingshan Park:

  • Why: Best sunset view over Beijing
  • How: Taxi or walk, ~15–20 min
  • Visit Time: 1 hour

Tip: If you have half a day or more, these sites are perfect after Nanluoguxiang. For a relaxed pace, pick one nearby spot to wrap up your day.  

FAQs & Insider Tips

Before starting your journey, please take a moment to review these frequently asked questions and find useful tips from the answers.

• Do I need a ticket?

  No, Nanluoguxiang is free to enter.

• Reservation needed?

Not for the main street, but some museums/workshops may need booking 1–2 days ahead.

• What to wear/bring?

          Comfortable shoes, sunhat, water, camera, light jacket in spring/autumn.

• Opening hours:

Street open 24/7; shops/attractions: 10:00–22:00.

• Souvenirs?

  Plenty of stores for crafts, snacks, Beijing-themed gifts.

• How to avoid crowds?

  Come early morning or late evening, explore side alleys, avoid weekends/holidays.

[caption id="attachment_544" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] 纪念商店 Souvenir Shop[/caption]  

Embrace the Spirit of Old Beijing

Lose yourself in Nanluoguxiang’s winding alleys and feel the smoky aroma of street food mingling with the echoes of history. Here, every corner tells a story, every flavor lingers, and every encounter brings you closer to the real Beijing. Whether you’re a culture buff, foodie, or casual explorer, Nanluoguxiang is a must for your China adventure.