Shichahai is not a single lake, but consists of three connected lakes: Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai (Jishuitan), which share the same origin as Beihai and Zhongnanhai. It is located on the west side of the central axis of Beijing and is the terminus of the Yuan Dynasty's transportation system. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it became a gathering place for the mansions of the powerful, religious temples, and common culture. Nowadays, this is a comprehensive leisure destination that combines historical residences, hutong style, royal gardens, bars and restaurants, summer boating, and winter ice rinks.
Historical and Cultural Heritage (Wangfu and Former Residence)
Prince Gong's Mansion: The most famous scenic spot in the Shichahai area, it was once the residence of the powerful officials He Jun and Prince Gong Yixin during the Qianlong Dynasty. Its architecture is luxurious and its gardens are exquisite. It is said to be the most well preserved royal palace in Beijing, with a history of half of the Qing Dynasty.
Former Residence of Soong Ching ling: Located on the north bank of Houhai, it was originally the garden of Prince Chun's mansion, with an elegant and peaceful environment.
Guo Moruo Memorial Hall: On the west bank of Qianhai, a standard quadrangle courtyard, showcasing Mr. Guo Moruo's life and work.
Bell and Drum Tower: Although not directly facing the water, as a high point and landmark in the Shichahai area, climbing the tower overlooks the hutong block, and the evening drum and morning bell are memories of old Beijing.
Hutong and urban life
Cigarette bag diagonal street: a small street connecting Qianhai and Gulou, resembling a cigarette bag. The streets are filled with specialty small shops, handicraft shops, and snack shops, making it a popular channel to experience the commercial atmosphere of old Beijing.
Hu Tongyou: The area around Shichahai is one of the best preserved hutongs and quadrangle courtyards in Beijing. You can take a human powered tricycle and shuttle through Jinsi Hutong, Nanluogu Lane (adjacent to the east), and other places under the guidance of the rickshaw driver to visit ordinary people's homes and learn about Hutong culture.
Silver Ingot Bridge: A small stone bridge at the boundary between Houhai and Qianhai. In the past, standing on the bridge, one could gaze west at the Western Hills, which is one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Yanjing" called "Silver Ingot Viewing Mountain".
Bar and Catering Culture
Houhai Bar Street: Along the coast of Houhai, there are numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants with different styles. At night, when the lights are on and the music is melodious, it is a popular choice for young people's nightlife (pay attention to discerning consumption).
Old Beijing Snacks: There are all kinds of Beijing snacks in the area, such as fried tripe Feng, cheese Wei, barbecue season and other time-honored brands, as well as Bingtanghulu and porcelain bottle yogurt that can be seen everywhere.
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Voltage and socket
The standard voltage in China is 220V. The commonly used socket shape is as shown in the picture. Most luxury hotel rooms are equipped with universal sockets, and tourists can also rent socket adapters at the hotel front desk.
Make a phone call
When a foreign mobile phone dials a Chinese fixed-line phone in China, it is necessary to dial the China area code (+86) and the city area code (e.g. Beijing +10) before the fixed-line phone number to be dialed.
When a foreign mobile phone dials a Chinese mobile number, it is necessary to dial the Chinese area code (+86) before the mobile number of the person being called.
Emergency call:
Call the police: 110
Fire emergency: 119
Traffic police: 122
Emergency: 120
Purchase a SIM card for a Chinese mobile phone
At major airports serving as ports of entry in China, there are designated counters for communication service providers, such as China Mobile and China Unicom. Foreign tourists can purchase SIM cards for Chinese mobile phones simply by presenting their passports.
Traffic safety tips
In China, all vehicles drive on the right side of the road, and both drivers and passengers must wear seat belts.
Health and medical tips
It is recommended to bring along commonly used medications (such as painkillers or gastrointestinal medications). If you need to take prescribed medication for an extended period, it is advisable to prepare sufficient quantities before departure and carry along doctor's certification documents, medical records, etc.
It is recommended to visit the international medical department of a general hospital or a foreign-funded hospital for treatment, as they generally provide medical services in English.
It is recommended to purchase relevant insurance before departure, and properly keep diagnosis certificates, outpatient medical records, fee lists, prescriptions, invoices, etc.
Cultural taboo
China is a multi-ethnic country, and there are significant differences in customs and habits among various ethnic groups. Especially when traveling in ethnic minority areas, it is important to pay attention to cultural taboos, such as taking off shoes when entering a Dai bamboo house, avoiding pork in Hui restaurants, and treating Buddhist statues, scriptures, and beads as sacred objects that must not be touched. It is recommended to listen carefully to the pre-trip introduction provided by the accompanying personnel and respect local culture and customs.
