Shichahai is located in the northeastern part of Beijing's Xicheng District, consisting of three connected water bodies: Qianhai (Front Lake), Houhai (Back Lake), and Xihai (West Lake). Adjacent to Beijing's central axis, it is the only open scenic area with expansive water views within the inner city, and also the largest and best-preserved historical neighborhood in the capital.

During the Yuan Dynasty, Shichahai served as the terminus of the Grand Canal, where grain-laden ships from the south would dock directly — creating a spectacular scene of "masts covering the water." Over 700 years later, pleasure boats still glide across the lake, while red lanterns along the shore trace a warm, timeless skyline. At night, the lighting at the Lotus Market adds a special ambiance to the waterfront. The renowned Prince Gong's Mansion sits at the northwest corner of Shichahai, and as the saying goes, "A visit to Prince Gong's Mansion reveals half the history of the Qing Dynasty." Standing on the Yinding Bridge and looking west, visitors can also catch a glimpse of "Silver Ingot Viewing the Mountains" — one of the "Eight Lesser Sights of Peking."

What Visitors Love About It

What visitors appreciate most about Shichahai is its unique and authentic old-Beijing atmosphere. The renowned historical geographer Hou Renzhi once called it "the most people-friendly treasure spot in the capital." By day, winding hutong alleys hide traditional courtyards and tranquil teahouses. At dusk, swaying willows and shimmering lake waters turn an ordinary walk into an unforgettable moment — especially when an unexpected sunset paints the sky. As night falls, lantern lights reflect on the water, and music drifts from the Houhai bar street, creating a lively and slightly bohemian nightlife vibe. Belgian tourist Hanna said: "It's peaceful yet beautiful here. You can take a stroll and enjoy delicious local food — we all loved it."

A Story of Shichahai: The Lake in Lao She's Writing

The famed writer Lao She once described Shichahai in his essay "Longing for Peking": "There are green willows, vast lotus blooms, dense reeds, flocks of waterbirds, and the incessant chirping of cicadas." Over eighty years later, if Lao She were to revisit Shichahai today, he would still recognize the scenes he wrote about — the lake, after systematic restoration, is even clearer, wild ducks swim there once again, and the once-boisterous music has been replaced by birdsong.

But this body of water has also known another side. Zhang Zi'an, the fourth-generation heir of Baodu Zhang (a famous local tripe restaurant) who has lived by Shichahai for decades, recalls his childhood summers swimming in the lake and winters skating on the ice — "life was just so comfortable." But by 2003, when the bar street flourished, the waterfront became noisy, and beer bottles began piling up. Fortunately, later government efforts removed illegal structures, opened up a lakeside walking path, and built the Xihai Wetland Park. Shichahai finally quieted down, regaining the timeless charm of old Beijing.

Quick Tip

Shichahai is free to enter, and a 2-to-3-hour visit is enough. Take Subway Line 8 to "Shichahai Station" — it's the most convenient option; driving is not recommended. For a quieter, crowd-free experience, get to Yinding Bridge before 7:00 AM for the best photos.