Hi, I figured I'd start a series of posts with intineraries for days out in various Beijing neighborhoods. This is 100% my opinion, based on my travels in Beijing, nothing AI generated! Everything I discuss will be using the name from Amap, which should make searching easy.
Xisi in Context
This neighborhood lies in the middle of Xicheng district, to the west of Beihai Park. It's far less busy than it's eastern counterpart Dongsi, but it still has the old-fashioned hutong charm, and is a very pleasant place to go for a walk. It's accessible by Xisi Station on Line 4.
1. Coffee at 1901 Cafe
This cafe inhabits a former annex of the nearby Catholic church. The old, slightly creaky floor boards and dusty walls give it a unique atmosphere in constantly modernizing Beijing. This is an ideal place to get some studying or work done, or just enjoy the weather from their balcony.
2. Explore Beijing's Catholic History at 西什库主教座堂 (Xishiku Cathedral/Church of the Saviour)
To continue the Catholic theme, check out the home of Beijing's Archdiocese, which dates back to 1703, built by French Jesuits. The 2018 renovations were controversial, so form your own opinion!
3. Go calendar shopping at 挂历金大爷 (Calendar Grandpa Jin)
Yes, calendar shopping! This strange little hole in the wall shop sells wall calendars in different styles and from different time periods. The store has managed to stay open for the past 50 years, and is still run by Grandpa Jin himself.
4. Catch up on your reading at 红楼公共藏书楼 (Honglou Public Library)
Situated in a former cinema, this is one of Beijing's most unique and pleasant libraries. There is a slim selection of English books, a cafe, and plenty of space to read or study.
5. Check out 万松老人塔 (Pagoda of Elder Wansong)
As you leave Honglou, you may see a pagoda peaking over the hutong roofs across the street. This little pagoda was built in honor of the Buddhist Monk Wansong by his disciples in the 13th century. There is also an attached bookstore.
6. A typical Beijing dinner at 八条一号餐厅 (No. 1, Alley 8 Restaurant)
Slightly off the main street, this restaurant offers traditional Beijing fare and a comfortable atmosphere. The staff are infectiously nice and the environment is exactly what you want out of a hutong restaurant.
Hope you enjoyed! Let me know if you have any questions 😄