Exploring the Most Beautiful Hutong in Beijing: A Guide to Autumn Citywalks

Stunning Autumn Citywalk Route

Last Saturday, I woke up super early just to catch those few comfortable hours of Beijing's autumn. Starting from Dongjiao Minxiang, I walked west. I've taken this route at least ten times, but I always discover something new in the fall. The sunlight filtering through the ginkgo leaves onto the cobblestone path gives off a warm feeling that's so unique to autumn in Beijing.

This time, I intentionally slowed my pace, not rushing through, but focusing on those facades that are easy to overlook. Honestly, the facade designs in Beijing's hutongs are really something special; each one has its own little charm.

Autumn Atmosphere in the Hutongs

I started my route from Dongjiao Minxiang, which used to be an embassy area—it's got this cool mix of Western-style architecture and hutong vibes. As I walked, I reached Xixinglong Street, which is relatively quiet with fewer tourists, but the facades are all exquisite.

Crossing Xixinglong Street, I arrived at Sanlihe Park, my favorite resting point. It’s not a big park, but in autumn, the ground is covered in fallen leaves. Sitting on a bench with a cup of coffee while watching passersby is so relaxing. Coming out of the park, you hit Beijing Fang, which is a bit more commercial, but you definitely can't miss the second-floor terrace of Pageone bookstore—it has a great view of Zhengyanglou.

The last stretch takes you from Yangmeizhu Xiejie to Hubfangqiao Road, where you can really feel the old Beijing vibe, with many traditional shops around.

Step into Each Beautiful Facade

Jolly Jolly Gift Shop

This little shop is tucked away in a corner of Xixinglong Street; its facade is pretty tiny but super charming. There are various little trinkets outside, and every time you pass, you'll see different decorations. They mainly sell handcrafted items and small gifts—prices aren't the cheapest, but the uniqueness makes it worth it.

Water Coffee

I have to highly recommend this coffee shop! The facade features a huge circular design that you can spot from afar. The space inside is small, but every corner is Instagram-worthy. They make a consistently good latte, and sitting by the window in autumn watching the ginkgo leaves fall feels like time slows down.

Suzuki Eatery

The Japanese-style facade stands out in the hutong, with a wooden structure and warm yellow lights, which feels especially cozy at night. Their specialty is Japanese-style set meals, and I highly recommend their teriyaki chicken rice.

Beijing Flavor Time

This shop brings a fresh twist to traditional Beijing elements. The facade blends traditional architectural elements with modern colors. They mainly sell cultural and creative products, many of which are re-designed with Beijing motifs—perfect for souvenirs.

PANGEAISM

This is my biggest find this time! A standalone wooden building that stands out in the hutong, with a wooden structure and large glass windows, it has a modern feel yet maintains warmth. They mainly sell designer brands; prices are on the higher side, but the designs are definitely striking.

Beijing Fang Pageone

The second-floor terrace of this bookstore is my secret spot—you get a great side view of Zhengyanglou from here, and the angle is perfect. The bookstore itself has a unique decor, and the spiral staircase is a must-click photo spot. I'd suggest visiting around 3 or 4 PM when the lighting is at its best.

Recommended Route for Beautiful Facades

Based on my multiple visits, here’s a smooth route for checking out the facades:

Water Coffee (starting point, grab a coffee in the morning) → Jolly Jolly Gift Shop (browse for 10 minutes) → PANGEAISM (photo ops) → METAL HANDS (if Water Coffee is too crowded) → Beijing Fang Pageone (check out Zhengyanglou from the second floor) → Yangmeizhu Xiejie (shop around various stores) → Old Beijing Rabbit Master (traditional handicrafts) → Suzuki Eatery (lunch time) → VOYAGE (afternoon coffee) → Qiankun Space (cultural products) → Beijing Flavor Time (pick up some souvenirs) → Songjia Calligraphy and Painting (check out traditional artworks)

This route is about 3-4 kilometers long, and if you take your time, you'll need a whole day. I recommend setting off around 9 AM when it's less crowded and easier to take photos.

Discovering the Beauty of Autumn in the Hutongs

Honestly, the beauty of autumn in Beijing is really hidden in the hutongs. Those beautiful facades aren’t just decoration; each shop has its own story behind it. For example, the owner of Water Coffee is a designer, and every detail in the shop is meticulously crafted; the owner of Suzuki Eatery lived in Japan for ten years, bringing authentic Japanese flavors back to Beijing.

Walking this route, you'll find that autumn in Beijing is more than just ginkgo leaves and red foliage; it’s really about the warmth of life. Each shop has its own rhythm: some open at ten in the morning, others close by five in the afternoon. This casualness is the charm of life in the hutongs.

Make sure to bring a power bank because you'll be taking loads of pictures, and your phone’s battery will drain quickly. Also, wear comfortable shoes; although the distance isn’t far, walking on cobblestones can get tiring.

One last little tip: don’t rush to check off all the facades—find a few shops you really like, sit down for a coffee, and chat with the owners. That’s the right way to enjoy a Citywalk in the hutongs.