Having lived in Beijing for over 20 years and visited Wudaoying Hutong many times, I'd like to take a moment to share some travel tips with you.
Hello! I'm Laura. I came to Beijing for my education in 2005, and after graduating, I worked as a tour guide here. I have lived in Beijing for 20 years, and it has always held a special place in my heart! I am fascinated by the city's rich history and culture. I love strolling through the hutongs, where time seems to slow down. The traditional courtyard houses and the delicate performances of Beijing opera make me feel like I'm part of a living history book.
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What's the Difference Between Wudaoying and Other Hutongs?
Wudaoying Hutong may not be the most famous hutong in Beijing, but it offers a unique experience. It is more refined than many other hutongs. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the hutong atmosphere while capturing great photos and shopping, Wudaoying Hutong is an excellent choice.
Authentic Style Close to Traditional Beijing
Antique shops in Wudaoying HutongWudaoying Hutong is less commercialized than Nanluoguxiang Hutong and Yandaixiejie Street. You can see electric boxes that indicate how many families reside in the courtyards.
Here, you can wander through literary and artistic niche shops, gaining insight into local expenses, housing prices, and living standards in Beijing.
Enjoy a Cup of Coffee and Capture Stunning Photos of the Lama Temple
Lama TempleYou can head to the three-story terrace of Full Ding Coffee, where you'll enjoy views of the grey roofs in the hutong area.
This spot is perfect for photographing the Lama Temple as it offers a higher vantage point, providing a bird's-eye view of Lama Temple's architectural layout and roofline.
Capturing images from this angle allows you to showcase Lama Temple's red walls, yellow glazed tiles, upturned eaves, and unique architectural style, highlighting its grandeur and rustic charm.
Savor Authentic Beijing Cuisine
Restaurants in Wudaoying Hutong are worth recommending:
- The King Joy Restaurant: Famous for its vegetarian dishes.
- No. 56 Courtyard: Specializes in hot pot with a graceful dining atmosphere.
- Liumian Long Life Noodles: Known for handmade noodles with Beijing-style sauce. Their long-life noodles with soybean paste and shredded cucumber are also my favorites.
If you're looking to experience Beijing's nightlife, visit the School Live House Bar, where you'll meet many local young people. Compared to the touristy areas of Sanlitun and Houhai, the School Live House Bar offers a more niche atmosphere.
How to Plan a Wudaoying Hutong City Walk
Wudaoying Hutong is approximately 630 meters long, making it a two-hour stroll. Nearby, you can visit famous attractions such as the Lama Temple, Confucius Temple, and Imperial College.
Based on my experience, a suitable travel route would be:
- Lama Temple (1 hour visit) - 10-minute walk - Confucius Temple and Imperial College (1 hour visit) - 10-minute walk - Wudaoying Hutong (2 hours visit)
The Lama Temple is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist temple featuring a unique architectural style that blends Han, Manchu, Mongolian, and Tibetan cultures. It offers a serene environment for contemplation and reflection. The opening hours are from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
I suggest starting your tour at the Lama Temple around 9 AM. After an hour there, it will be 10 AM, when most shops and snack stores along the route to the Confucius Temple will be open, making your walk more enjoyable!
Additionally, visiting early in the morning allows you to experience the tranquility and sacred atmosphere of Lama Temple.
As you explore the area, you'll have the opportunity to try local snacks, such as Sanyuanmen yogurt, tea-flavored ice cream, sugar-coated haws on a stick, and juicy beef pies.
Walking in the afternoon or late evening also reveals a vibrant Wudaoying Hutong. If you want to embark a hutong city walk or want to visit Wudaoying Hutong when visiting the Lama Temple, just contact us by telling us your interests and requirements.
If you visit in autumn, especially from October 15 to November 15, Wudaoying Hutong is the perfect place to enjoy the fall scenery of Beijing.
During the Spring Festival, usually happening between late January and late February 20, you can experience the festive atmosphere, with red lanterns and couplets adorning the doors. Wudaoying Hutong hosts a series of activities that blend traditional and modern elements:
- Exhibitions of Calligraphy and Paintings: Here, you can appreciate the beauty of traditional Chinese art. Some workshops also offer the opportunity to learn basic calligraphy skills and create your own masterpieces under the guidance of professional artists.
- Guessing Lantern Riddles: Colorful lanterns adorned with riddles are hung throughout the area. You can test your luck by guessing the answers, and those who guess correctly may receive small prizes. This engaging and intellectual activity adds to the festive atmosphere.
How to Get to Wudaoying Hutong
You can reach Wudaoying Hutong by subway. Take Line 2 or Line 5 and get off at Yonghegong Lama Temple Station. Exit from C or G, and it's just a 3-minute walk to Wudaoying Hutong.
We also offer personalized private tours in Beijing, including a hutong experience tailored to your needs. Your questions will be answered, and you can stay as long as you wish. Just contact us to create a custom trip.