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Houhai

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Houhai

Houhai

Houhai is a lake in central Beijing and the largest part of the Shichahai lake system. It is characterized by a perimeter of traditional hutong alleys and a shoreline lined with restaurants, bars, and cafés. Travelers visit this area to walk through the historic residential lanes or to access the nightlife and dining options along the water.

Getting There

The area is located in the central district of Beijing. From the city center, it is accessible via the Beijing Subway or by taxi. Depending on the starting point and traffic, the journey typically takes 20 to 40 minutes.

Duration of Visit

Allow 2 to 4 hours to explore the lake's edge and the surrounding hutongs. Those planning to dine or visit the bars in the evening should allocate more time.

When to Visit

The area is popular throughout the year, though the scenery changes with the seasons. It becomes crowded during weekends and public holidays. The shoreline is most active in the evening when the nightlife scene is in full effect.

Nearby Attractions

The location is well-positioned for combining several sites within a short distance:

  • Prince Gong's Mansion: 0.5km
  • Shichahai: 0.8km
  • Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel: 1.7km
  • Beihai Park: 1.9km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Houhai

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Houhai Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

Prince Gong's Mansion

Castles & palaces

Prince Gong's Mansion

A former princely mansion north of Beijing's Shichahai Lake, made up of sprawling siheyuan courtyards and gardens. It was once home to Prince Gong in the late Qing dynasty, and strolling through its ornate architecture and gardens offers a glimpse into the life of Qing nobility.

0.5 km away
Shichahai

Parks & gardens

Shichahai

An old lakeside district in Beijing facing Beihai Park, said to be where the merchant Shen Wansan once mined silver, according to legend. Strolling along the lakeshore, you can soak up the historic atmosphere.

0.8 km away
Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Temples & religious sites

Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

A Catholic church in Beijing's Xicheng District, locally known by the nickname 'West Church.' Its modest chapel and the quiet surrounding alleys make for a pleasant stroll.

1.7 km away
Beihai Park

Parks & gardens

Beihai Park

A former imperial garden northwest of the Forbidden City, Beihai Park preserves the classic look of a traditional Chinese garden. It has been open to the public since 1925, and anyone can now stroll its grounds.

1.9 km away
Church of the Saviour

Temples & religious sites

Church of the Saviour

A Catholic cathedral in Beijing's Xicheng District, first built in 1703 by French Jesuits. It's a great place to admire a church building with a long history.

2.0 km away
Jingshan Park

Parks & gardens

Jingshan Park

An artificial hill just north of the Forbidden City in Beijing, originally created as an imperial garden. Now open to the public as a park, it pairs well with a visit to the Forbidden City.

2.2 km away