Houhai Because of its proximity to the Forbiddent City, this area was historically home to court officials and the city's elite. Some of their residence still stand.

Qianmen Dajie (Dashilan) This has been a shopping strip for more than 500 years, and remains one of the most memorable experiences in the city.

Liulichang The Liulichang Street of Chinese Culture is a 750 meter long collection of all kinds of Calligraphy, art, antiques and paintings that China has to offer.

Nanluoguxiang Located several kilometers north of the Forbidden City is Nanluoguxiang, an 800-meter north-south alleyway filled with cafes, bars, and shops all designed in classical 'hutong' style.

Nanchizi and Beichizi This hutong was once included within the imperial city grounds. Today the Ming and Qing dynasty archives were kept in a grand pavillion here.

Silk Street Market The Silk Street Market reopened in its shiny new 5-storey shopping mall in March 2005, replacing its notorious predecessor, the outdoor Xiu Shui market.

Wangfujing This is the city's best-known shopping area. The street is always busy, mostly with pedestrians, but that's part of its charm.

Dongsi Beidajie Dongsi Beidajie shopping street, along with Wangfujingand Xidan, completes the trio of main shopping areas in the city center.