Back Lakes (Hou Hai), Beijing: How to Visit and What to Do Nearby

Houhai—the Back Lakes—is a cluster of three connected lakes in central Beijing's Shichahai historic district, surrounded by narrow hutong alleys and courtyard residences dating to the Yuan and Ming dynasties. The lakeside path runs roughly 3 kilometers around the main Houhai and Qianhai lakes and is lined with bars, restaurants, and small clubs, many with rooftop terraces facing the water. In winter, sections of the frozen lake are opened as a public ice-skating rink, a tradition dating back to the Qing Dynasty. The Bell and Drum Towers stand at the northern end of the Qianhai lake axis. is just one of many options in Beijing. Major attractions worth considering include 798 Art District, Beijing National Stadium, and Capital Museum.