Beijing Hutong Authentic: Chinese-Japanese Comparison

Author: Shen Yantai (editor), Shen Yantai, Wang Changqing (photography)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-01-01
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 upon generations have lived, thrived, worked, and struggled here, and Beijing's historical and folk culture has also developed and evolved on this foundation. Understanding hutongs not only allows one to trace the trajectory of Beijing's historical and cultural development but also reflects its unique customs and traditions, as well as giving one a sense of the pulse of the people.