I spent three unforgettable days wandering through Beijing without a plan, following my mood and discovering hidden gems I never knew existed. From the solemn corridors of the National Library to the bustling snack stalls of Niujie, from the quiet hutongs of Dongjiaominxiang to the vibrant art galleries of 798, this spontaneous journey revealed a Beijing that guidebooks rarely capture. If you're seeking authentic experiences away from tourist crowds while embracing the unexpected, this city delivers in ways that surprised even this seasoned wanderer.
Trip Overview
When: Autumn (October)
Duration: 3 days
Travelers: Solo
Budget: ~500 RMB (~$70 USD)
Transportation: Subway + Taxi + Walking
Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions
My love affair with Beijing began long before this trip. Back in high school, when my deskmate asked which university I wanted to attend, I replied, "Any university in Beijing will do." I didn't get in then. After graduation, I tried to find work here, but that dream slipped away too. So Beijing became this unreachable longing, a city that held my imagination hostage for years.
The first time I rode the Beijing subway as a child, I was mesmerized by its speed. During university, I came for a short study program and met the most welcoming friends who felt like instant family. As I grew older, I realized Beijing embraces everyone—here, you don't feel strange for being different. Thoughts and actions aren't confined by rigid rules; you just need the courage to be yourself.
I love the Beijing dialect, the hutongs and siheyuan (四合院 - traditional courtyard houses), the pea yellow cakes, the way locals walk, and my dear friend Changchang who lives here.
A Hearty Welcome Dinner
On my first evening in Beijing, I followed my usual tradition—joining Changchang for five-star quality traditional Beijing copper pot hotpot. We ordered so much lamb that we startled our server, who rushed over to stop us, insisting we had enough. We ignored her advice and finished every plate. Is there anything more satisfying than lamb and frozen tofu?
Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU)
For some reason, I felt drawn to visit BFSU's campus that day. Images of its red-brick gate and buildings had floated through my mind countless times, and now I was standing right before them. The campus was quiet—classes had ended for the semester, and some buildings were under construction. I wandered for a while before heading out.
The National Library of China
BFSU sits near the National Library, and I was curious about its scale and collections. I particularly wanted to browse the Korean language section. The library consists of two connected buildings—South and North Zones, with the South Zone housing foreign language collections.
I discovered that reading original foreign books requires advance online reservation, which I hadn't arranged. That was my first regret. However, the self-study rooms were magnificent—spacious, quiet, and perfectly designed for focused work. I could easily imagine spending an entire day there.
🎯 Practical Info
Entry: Free, but bring your passport/ID for registrationForeign Books: Advance reservation required for original foreign language collectionsLocation: South Zone for foreign languages, North Zone for Chinese collectionsBest Time: Morning to secure a good study spot
While I missed the Korean books, the Chinese collection was incredibly comprehensive, with rows upon rows of shelves stretching into the distance. Volunteer staff patiently guided visitors and helped locate books. Beyond literature, there were music scores and art collections to explore.
Niujie Snack Street
By noon, I was ready for Beijing's famous snacks. Following Changchang's recommendation, I headed to Niujie (牛街 - Ox Street). I could have taken the subway, but I opted for a taxi instead. Beijing taxi drivers are the city's most dedicated tour guides.
Along the way, we passed an unmarked palace-style building with plainclothes guards. The driver explained it was Diaoyutai State Guesthouse on Fuchengmen Street—one of Beijing's many understated but significant places.
Arriving at Niujie, the most popular spot with the longest queue was Baiji Snacks. Their ludagun (驴打滚 - glutinous rice rolls), wandouhuang (豌豆黄 - pea yellow cakes), tangerduo (糖耳朵 - sweet fried dough), and niangao (年糕 - rice cakes) are absolutely worth the wait.
Dongjiaominxiang Lane
After lunch, I found myself near Dongjiaominxiang, a narrow lane close to Tiananmen Square. Among Beijing's countless hutongs, this one might seem unremarkable, but its walls hold centuries of stories. During the Republican era, it served as a concession area where foreign embassies clustered.
Today, some buildings have become museums, others house offices, and some remain private residences. Walking through this lane, you can almost hear the echoes of history and sense the bustling energy of a hundred years ago.
Qianmen Street
The entire lane takes about thirty minutes to walk through. My next stop was Qianmen Street, where you can ride the old Beijing tram or wander through the maze of hutongs in Dashilan. Many famous Beijing brands have their flagship stores here—it's a must-visit for souvenir shopping.
Houhai and Guo Moruo's Former Residence
Leaving Qianmen, I had planned to visit Nanluoguxiang, but somehow ended up at Houhai instead. It seems every time I come to Beijing, I unconsciously find myself here. Unfortunately, it's always been during daylight—I've heard the bars at night, listening to live music, are quite special.
Walking along, I passed Guo Moruo's former residence. I'd never visited before, so I bought a ticket. Some say Mr. Guo had a complicated personal life, but his literary achievements are undeniable—his poetry and prose remain beautiful works of art.
Nearby sits the famous Prince Gong's Mansion, a popular attraction always crowded with tourists. Having visited before, I skipped the crowds this time.
Nanluoguxiang via Yandaixiejie
Crossing Yinding Bridge over Houhai leads to Yandaixiejie (烟袋斜街 - Tobacco Pipe Street), which feels like a typical commercialized ancient street. Passing through it and crossing the road, you arrive at Nanluoguxiang.
The lane is lined with interesting shops galore. A visit here isn't complete without trying Wenyu Cheese. When the heat became unbearable, I ducked into a small bar for a break.
An Unexpected Yunnan Dinner
That evening, I found myself eating Yunnan cuisine in the heart of Beijing. While savoring the food, I listened to Wa ethnic singers from Yunnan performing love songs. One of the Wa men even taught us some phrases in their language. The 52-proof plum wine was pleasantly sour, creating a beautifully tipsy evening.
Day 2: Art Districts and Temples
Life sometimes brings unexpected ideas and emotions that need unique expression. These moments converge at 798 Art District, where inspiration strikes instantly, but appreciation requires time. People slow their hurried steps here, giving their souls a holiday.
I visited on a scorching 33-degree day—not ideal for this open-air district. You'd want a cool autumn breeze instead. The heat was almost overwhelming, but I was thrilled to meet my favorite teacher, Xia Qing. We talked for hours that seemed to pass in minutes.
Gui Street and Yonghe Temple
With some afternoon time remaining, I wanted to explore Gui Street, famous for its late-night dining. Arriving too early, I found the restaurants only open for evening service. Wandering through nearby hutongs, I unexpectedly stumbled upon Yonghe Temple (雍和宫 - Yonghe Gong), the former residence of Emperor Yongzheng (the "Fourth Prince"), now a spiritual destination where people come to burn incense and pray.
🎯 Practical Info
Yonghe Temple Entry: ¥25 (~$3.50)Best Time: Early morning for fewer crowdsTip: Rumor has it that prayers at Yonghe Temple are especially effective
Not far from Yonghe Temple stand the Confucius Temple and Guozijian (国子监 - Imperial College). I visited what served as China's premier university during the Qing Dynasty, where the atmosphere felt solemn and serene.
Day 3: Unexpected Encounters
The final day brought unplanned adventures. I started at Qingfeng Steamed Bun Shop for fried pork liver and douzhi (豆汁儿 - fermented mung bean milk). Contrary to popular belief, I found the douzhi quite delicious and nutritious—I highly recommend trying it!
After breakfast, I headed to Sanlitun, taking the subway to Tuanjiehu Station, Exit A, near the current embassy buildings. My curious wandering attracted the attention of patrolling guards, who kept a watchful eye until I moved along.
Around the corner stood Taikoo Li Sanlitun. There weren't as many shops as I expected, and it wasn't very crowded—apparently, Sanlitun truly comes alive at night.
I enjoyed Western food and afternoon tea with my lovely teacher, Cui. After saying goodbye, I took a taxi toward the train station, passing Tiananmen Square one last time before bidding farewell to Beijing.
Quick Reference Guide
Must-Try Foods
Beijing Copper Pot Hotpot (涮肉) – Traditional lamb hotpotLudagun (驴打滚) – Glutinous rice rolls with red bean pasteWandouhuang (豌豆黄) – Pea yellow cakesTangerduo (糖耳朵) – Sweet fried dough twistsWenyu Cheese (文宇奶酪) – Famous dairy shop in NanluoguxiangDouzhi (豆汁儿) – Fermented mung bean milk (acquired taste)Fried Pork Liver (炒肝) – Traditional Beijing breakfast
Key Attractions
Beijing Foreign Studies University – Beautiful red-brick architectureNational Library of China – Massive collection, bring IDNiujie – Authentic Muslim snack streetDongjiaominxiang – Historic former embassy districtQianmen Street – Traditional shopping and tramsHouhai – Lakeside bars and historic sitesNanluoguxiang – Popular hutong with shops and cafes798 Art District – Contemporary art galleriesYonghe Temple – Active Tibetan Buddhist templeConfucius Temple & Guozijian – Ancient educational institutions
Transportation Tips
Beijing subway is efficient and affordableTaxis are reasonably priced; drivers often double as tour guidesWalking through hutongs reveals hidden gems