With overhanging willows lining its banks and cafee, bars tucked away in its many secluded corners, Houhai at the center of Beijing is a delightful area to relax over a drink while watching life on and off the water. Curios are on sale, and Pedi cab drivers chat while waiting to take passengers for a ride around the neighboring alleys or hutongs.
Houhai is situated between Qianhai and Xihai, just north of Qianhai. Houhai is in the center of the traditional hutong areas of central Beijing. The ancient Drum and Bell Towers are nearby.
The area of Houhai, Qianhai and Xihai collectively is often referred to as Shishahai. The water for these lakes comes via canal past the north of Beijing Zoo from Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace. In turn, the water in Kunming Lake comes from rainfall in the Western Fragrant Hills.
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 (right) 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 (Si He Yuan), 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 1949, who officially frowned on such extravagance.
The whole area is very close to Wangfujing Street, where you can have a stroll in the evening after dinner.
Just tell the cab driver Houhai and you will arrive there in 10 minutes if you stay at the center of Beijing. When you want to return to your hotel after a relaxed night, show the cab driver you hotel key board and you will reach home safe and sound in a couple of minutes.

How to enjoy your Beijing Tour in a relaxing way

Beihai Park and Hutong tour with shared Coach and Guide

Beijing Coach-shared Daily Tour 5: Summer Palace, Lama Temple and Pandas

Beijing Coach-shared Daily Tour 4: Another Look of the Great Wall

Beijing Relaxing Tour in the evening: Evening Tour ( Roast Duck & Peking Opera

Beijing Coach-shared Daily Tour 2: Great Wall and Ming Tombs

Beijing Coach-shared Daily Tour 1: Forbidden City, summer Palace and Temple of Heaven

Beijing Highlights Daily Tour (join now)