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The Most Beautiful Areas in China
With overhanging willows lining its banks and caf¨¦ bars tucked away in its many
secluded corners, Houhai in the Xicheng District of Beijing is a delightful area
to relax over a drink while watching life on and off the water. Curios are on
sale, and pedicab drivers chat while waiting to take passengers for a ride
around the neighboring alleys or hutong.
Houhai is popular all day with small
shops in hidden alleys and lots of rickshaws passing by. In the evening, trendy
lighting and neon mixes with traditional red lanterns to create a lively yet
relaxing atmosphere.
Follow the lake southwards on the west side to reach the popular
area where Qianhai joins Houhai and Lotus Lane beyond.
If you take a rickshaw tour around the Houhai area, there are two historical
spots that you are very likely to visit. China's last emperor, Puyi, was born in
a mansion near Houhai. Another courtyard house (Siheyuan), in this case a very
large one, was the longtime residence of Song Qingling, the wife of Sun Yat-Sen.
Both these mansions are now museums. The expansive gardens and ponds provide a
glimpse of what life was like for the privileged before the Communists, who
officially frowned on such extravagance.
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