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Photo: Cygnus78, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
A large area north of Beihai Park that encompasses 3 adjacent lakes (Xihai, Houhai, and Qianhai) enjoyed by locals for a long stroll along the lakes. The quiet lake area turns into a busy nightlife hub around the crossing point of the eastern end of Houhai and Qianhai.
Houhai is a lake and its surrounding neighborhood in Xicheng District of central Beijing, China. Houhai is the largest of the three lakes, along with Qianhai 'Front Lake' and Xihai 'Western Lake', that compose Shichahai, the collective name for the three northernmost lakes in central Beijing. Since the early 2000s, the hutong neighborhood around Houhai has become known for its nightlife as many residences along the lake shore have been converted into restaurants, bars, and cafes. The area is especially popular with foreign tourists visiting Beijing and is also often visited by the expatriate community and the younger generations of locals.
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恭王府花园 Gōngwángfǔ Huāyuán
The mansion displays the life of princes during the Qing dynasty. The garden is packed with Chinese tourists. The mansion stages Peking Opera and magic shows now and then.
宋庆龄故居 Sòngqìnglíng Gùjū
Museum and garden showing the life of Soong Ching Ling (1893-1981). Soong was a politician in the early days of communist China, vice president 1959–1975. She was married to Sun Yat-sen and also related to Chiang Kai-shek.
梅兰芳纪念馆 Méilánfāng Jìniànguǎn
Museum showing the life of Mei Lanfang (1894-1961). Mei was the greatest star of Peking Opera, acting for more than 50 years, primarily playing female roles. Furniture as well as costumes and other opera stuff are exhibited here.
德胜门箭楼 Déshèngmén Jiànlóu
City gate built in 1437 as part of the city wall, which was torn down in 1969. Now only an archery tower and a barbican is left. The gate houses an ancient coin exhibition and a snack bar.