Beijing hutong

Author: Shen Yantai
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-06-01
Features: The layout of Beijing's hutongs took shape in the 13th century. From the 13th century to the beginning of the 20th century, hutongs were the living spaces of all social classes except the imperial family. To this day, most of Beijing's residents still live in them. Generations have lived, thrived, worked, and struggled here, and Beijing's historical and folk culture has developed and evolved based on these hutongs. Understanding hutongs not only allows one to trace the trajectory of Beijing's historical culture but also to experience its unique folk customs and feel the pulse of the people.
I was born and raised in Beijing, and after more than half a century, I could be considered a true "Beijing local." What makes Beijing unforgettable is its countless hutongs, which are called streets or lanes in the south. Whenever I return from traveling, especially from abroad, I am most eager to see those ancient, elegant, familiar, and warm hutongs. In a way, only by seeing these hutongs can I feel like I have returned to Beijing, returned home. Hutongs and home are inseparable, and Beijing and hutongs are inseparable. In a certain sense, hutongs are the soul of Beijing.