Xicheng DistrictThe Xicheng District provides travelers several nature and wildlife exploration options. One not-to-miss site is the Beihai Park – a garden with more than 1,000 years of history. In addition to the park, the Hou Hai (means "back lake" in Chinese) neighborhood of the Xicheng District features a lake that was discovered during the Yuan Dynasty. And, the Beijing Zoo can be found in this District, an area of Beijing that is also home to many of China’s most rich and famous residents.
Return to Insider's Guide to BeijingWhat to Do:
Dive Into NatureEnjoy a leisurely walk in the beautiful Hou Hai, just north of the Forbidden City. A walk around the lake can take 45 minutes, or several hours, depending on your pace and interests (you can enjoy lunch or shopping in the hutongs around the lake). Or, consider paddling over the lake in a rentable rowboat (approximately $5/hour) or bicycling around the natural wonder (less than $5/hour). Avoid taking a rickshaw around the lake – the drivers can be a bit aggressive.
Whatever your fancy, bring cash if you plan to rent or purchase anything.
Getting There: If you decide to take a taxi to the lake, tell the driver you want to go to “ho hi” and he’ll know where to take you.
Sizzling Delights If you're a fan of mutton and find yourself in the Hou Hai area of the Xicheng District, you’re in luck. Nestled next to the Xiaoshibei Hutong Bridge is Kao Rou Ji, a family-owned eatery that began as a mutton stall (by the same family) in 1848. Now a thriving restaurant in a beautiful two-story, green-colored traditional Chinese building, Kao Rou Ji’s house specialty mutton is juicy and served on a sizzling hot plate.
Kao Rou Ji
Qian Hai Dong Yan #14
Phone: +86-10-6404-2554
Lucas Film Fan AlertWhen in Beijing, think like George Lucas? If you’re interested in a themed dinner and a movie, head to Club Obiwan on a Thursday night.
Despite its name, Club Obiwan has nothing to do with "Star Wars." Instead, it's after the animated, yet dangerous 1930s Shanghai bar featured in "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom." The first floor boasts several red sofas and large, square, black and white tables. The second floor features a café/bar indoor lounge. And, the rooftop deck is perfect for moon gazing on a nice evening.
On special movie-filled evenings (Thursdays, between 8 and 10 p.m.), the chef chooses a unique, three-course menu tied to the theme of the movie being featured. Bring cash – this kitschy destination that sits next to the Xihai Lake, is cash-only.
Club Obiwan
Xihai Xiyan No.4
300m from Jishuitan Subway Station, Xicheng District
Phone: +86-10-6617-3231
Subway Stop: Line 2 Ji Shui Tan, Exit B
Expand Your Art & History Horizons If you're looking to expand your art and history knowledge, consider visiting Beijing's New Capital Museum. Regular exhibitions include Chinese porcelain, bronze wares and Chinese calligraphy and paintings. Temporary exhibits often feature historical artifacts and artwork as part of collaborations with other renowned museums around the world. Tickets run 30 RMB (less than $5).
New Capital Museum
16 Fu Xingmen Wai Street, XiCheng District
Phone: +86-10-6337-0491
Subway Stop: Muxidi Station, Line 1
Spaced OutLocated across the street from the Beijing Zoo is one of the best "space museums" in the country – the Beijing Planetarium. One of the city's most popular attractions, this hot spot reopened in March 2008 and is made up of two parts: The planetarium and observatory. The new facility features digital space theaters and an exhibition hall. Prices range from 10 RMB to 100 RMB depending on your interests ($1.50 - $13).
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