Yandai Byway

Yandai Byway is an old commercial streets that showcase Beijing’s past, originally formed in Yuan Dynasty (1271 – 1368) and further developed and reached its height in late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Yandai, literally “Smoking Pipes”, was once lined up with many shops selling smoking pipes, hence the name of Yandai. Beijing’s oldest commercial street links Di An Men with Houhai Lake and the Drum and Bell Tower, but it’s an attraction in and of itself and not simply a thoroughfare. Lined with charming handicraft shops, bars, and cafes, it’s the perfect place for a stroll or to buy a souvenir. The shopping experience and the scenery themselves would worth a daylong visit. However, if you go with a local you would get a lot more. #beijingtrip #urbanexplorer #cityoverlook