Nanluoguxiang’s Popularity Grows

Beijing’s trendiest hutong continues to attract crowds and commerce.

Once an obscure hutong rarely frequented by tourists and expats, Nanluoguxiang’s recent transformation into a bustling, Bohemian alleyway is symptomatic of Beijing’s extensive pre-Olympic makeover. Located several kilometers north of the Forbidden City and east of Houhai Lake, the 800-meter long North-South street is now lined with hip cafes and bars, bargain basement hostels, funky boutiques, and a wide assortment of restaurants serving up everything from fish and chips and chicken tikka to gongbao jiding and hawaiian pizza.

Nanluoguxiang’s first facelift happened in early 2006 – the uneven thoroughfare was leveled and paved with grey bricks, storefronts were renovated, and a stream of cafes and shops were opened. Today the area continues to thrive, with new businesses snapping up coveted spaces on the remodeled “old street”, despite rising rents and real estate prices. Thanks to a steady stream of publicity, Nanluoguxiang is now firmly established on Beijing’s tourist trail, with overseas visitors mingling with a young local crowd, trendy expats, and, of course, Chinese residents.

With its universal appeal it was little surprise when Nanluoguxiang held its first street festival in 2006. This was followed up by a second event last September, with the alley playing host to activities such as fashion shows, traditional Chinese dancing, storytelling and art exhibitions, and live music. Although it looks as though this year’s event has been postponed until after the Olympics, there’s no reason to think it won’t be more popular than ever.

Image source: Daniel Allen

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