2025 Houhai Area Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#summervacay The breeze in Houhai, carrying songs and the clinking of glasses, whispers past your ear. This iconic Beijing spot truly embodies a unique, "national-level aesthetic" that feels deeply personal and captivating. Experience Houhai's Charm Houhai (后海) offers a blend of serene beauty and lively atmosphere, making it a quintessential Beijing experience, especially in the evenings. Scenic Beauty: The tranquil lake, surrounded by traditional hutongs and weeping willows, creates a picturesque setting that feels both ancient and vibrant. Vibrant Bar Street: The famous Houhai Bar Street (后海酒吧街) comes alive at night with a mix of cozy pubs and bustling live music venues. The air is filled with melodies, laughter, and the clinking of glasses, perfect for a relaxed evening out. A "Northern Chill" with Style: It perfectly captures that "北方整个浪儿" (Běifāng zhěnggè làng'er - Northern vibe) – a cool, laid-back atmosphere with an underlying current of energy. Perfect for Night Strolls: Whether you're looking for a lively night out or a peaceful "night walk" by the water, Houhai delivers. It's an ideal spot to soak in Beijing's unique charm after dark. Houhai is more than just a destination; it's an experience that lets you connect with a distinct "Chinese aesthetic" in a truly memorable way. #Houhai #Beijing #BeijingTravel #HouhaiBarStreet #NightLife #NightWalk #ChineseAesthetic #TravelChina #BeijingNights

I chose Nanluoguxiang Hutong Street to walk around. It turns out that it is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Beijing, with a history of more than 740 years. The place is well connected and very lively. You can walk all day without finishing it. There are so many delicious foods in Nanluoguxiang that it is a bit overwhelming. You can't eat everything. Here, you can choose to eat mutton skewers grilled with charcoal. The fresh mutton is tender and has no smell. The charcoal grilling is very delicious. Paired with a glass of freshly squeezed watermelon juice, it is a perfect enjoyment. #Nanluoguxiang #Beijing snacks #Charcoal grilled mutton skewers #Watermelon juice #Beijing food #Beijing Hutong #July post message event 2025

Lively nightlife area around Houhai Lake with music, food, drinks.

For most of my travels, I am always looking for souvenirs to bring back home For my family and friends. Usually travelling friends brings back souvenirs like keychain and magnets which are easy to get but could be quite boring sometimes. I try to bring home differently from each travels. I found these dried foods and flower tea perfect souvenir from Beijing as products are good in quality and most people will enjoyed it. This is one of the shops located along HouHai lake. This is a good place to buy as you are able to sample them before buying. One tip though, pls request the seller to weigh the goods before they pack for you, to make sure it’s the quantity you have placed your order. We realised they have packed few hundred grams more than we requested for each order, making the total cost amount more than expected 🙀 #beijing #cwnanaexplores

One of the must eat in Beijing. Mutton hot pot with mix base soup (hot/clear). This is one of the restaurants in Hou hai (后海). Very affordable and the mutton is delicious and fresh. This restaurant is call 双魁楼南门铜锅涮肉（后海店). The staff are all friendly, polite, prompt and attentive. Restaurant is clean and well maintained. Many dishes in the menu to choose from and I suggest ordering one type of your favorite sauce per table enough as the sauce is a big portion. No point each person ordering one.

The best and most calming time to visit Houhai lake in Beijing is early in the morning. Old aunts and uncles clearing the streets, people running, walking, and enjoying the peace. Of course you might also catch a glimpse of the daring ice swimmers here, too! One of my favourite places early morning in Beijing. Of course, hanging out here in the night is fun too! No crowds here! #houhai #Beijing #historicallandmarks