A cultural hub basking in ancient tradition and artistry, Beijing is a magnet for history buffs. By late 2020, China's capital counted nearly 200 museums, according to a blue paper released by the Beijing Society of Museums and Social Sciences Academic Press in May 2021. The city's development plan also outlined that by late 2025, the number of museums will reach 260.

COVID-19 has heavily affected the normal operation of museums as offline visits are oftentimes not permitted due to pandemic prevention policies. Fortunately, many museums have been able to make the most of hi-tech advancements and launched different forms of online exhibitions to meet public demand.

But there is one other option to satisfy one's hunger for historical exploration: the hutongs. A walk through Beijing's winding network of old-style alleyways is getting more and more popular with visitors. Once they go off the beaten urban path and dive into these smaller lanes, they are sure to encounter some underrated hidden gems of history to spice up that itinerary. 

(Text and photos by Wei Yao)

Copyedited by Elsbeth van Paridon

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