Hutong offers authentic experience of 'Beijing life'

Zhonglouwan hutong, located near Beijing's iconic Drum Tower and Bell Tower in Dongcheng district, is the closest hutong to Beijing's Central Axis, the newly recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a rich history, the traditional alley has attracted tourists from around the world eager to experience the authentic "Beijing life."

"This area is really beautiful with so many old buildings, and the atmosphere here is really chill and relaxed," said Arnold Geels, a tourist from the Netherlands who encountered local seniors playing shuttlecock on Saturday morning in a community park in front of the Drum Tower.

"It's my first time and first day in China," he said. "The Drum and Bell Towers are our first site during our seven-day China tour. I love ancient buildings and it's cool to see locals are living a peaceful life in the ancient buildings here."

"The weather is great, too!"