By Ren Na

For a genuine flavor of old Beijing, take a trip to the hutongs around the Houhai district, where a new generation of stylish bars and restaurants has revitalized an ancient neighborhood. In recent years the district has become very popular with tourists from all over the world.

Houhai is a lake in central Beijing, sandwiched Qianhai to the south and Xihai, to the north – which together make up the area known as Shichahai. Houhai is a great place for tourists all year round. At Spring Festival, the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar, its totally differentiated style, scene and feeling create a unique experience for visitors to enjoy.

Follow us to take a look at what Houhai has to offer at Spring Festival:

Bustling ice rink

In the summer, Houhai lake is popular for a lakeside stroll but also for boating and even swimming for the more adventurous. But in winter the lake turns into a natural ice rink for both visitors and locals. Here you can see dozens of people skating happily in the sunshine of a winter afternoon.

Even you don't skate yourself it is fun to watch others as they gracefully, or clumsily, skim across the ice.

Quiet bars

There are countless bars and restaurants along the lakeside and adjoining alleys where visitors can sit down for a drink or something to eat while watching the world go by. Each bar has its own unique design, décor and atmosphere. Whether you are looking for beer, wine, tea or coffee, you're sure to find something to suit your taste. With its mixture of traditional and modern, Chinese and overseas styles, Houhai is a place where cultures collide and intermingle. While many of the bars and restaurants may be closed for the Spring Festival holiday, you are sure to find somewhere to sit and enjoy a drink. Lazy strolls along the street Even a quiet stroll along the lakeside is fun. What could be more relaxing than walking along chatting in the warm afternoon sunlight against a background of birdsong with a light breeze rustling the branches?

A festival atmosphere doesn't have to be noisy and crowded. The simple and serene lakeside can be a charming holiday idyll.

Relax on a rickshaw tour

A rickshaw tour of the hutongs has become a must-do activity in Beijing and Houhai, with its charming lanes and experienced guides, is one of the best places in the capital to enjoy the experience.

Take a trip around the lake and surrounding areas such as Yandai Xijie; visit rooftop bars and grab bargains in the excellent jewellery and nick-nack shops.

Houhai is a great outing at any time of the year but for a unique winter experience take a trip there at Spring Festival.

Ren Na currently work as account manager in one company which is focused on conducting business with regards to public relation. After completion of her BA degree, she went to United Kingdom to finish her Master Degree for almost four years.