The Ultimate Citywalk Guide in Beijing: Curated Shops and Culinary Delights

Recently, I’ve been having so much fun exploring Beijing, especially with the super popular Citywalk routes. Honestly, if I hadn't walked it myself, I wouldn't have believed that such a traditional route could be packed with so many surprises! I'm excited to share my comprehensive guide with you all; whether you love taking photos or hunting for hidden gems, this route is perfect.

The Most Stunning Citywalk Route

This Citywalk starts at Dongjiaomin Lane, passing through Xixinglong Street, Sanlihe Park, Beijing Fang, and finally ending at Yangmeizhu Lane and Hubofang Bridge. Along the way, you’ll get both the vibe of old Beijing and some amazing little shops. Plus, the places you visit are great for photos and delicious food—just a little lift of your camera and you’ve got a stunning view!

Route Plan:

1. Dongjiaomin Lane: A unique scene of old Beijing, quiet yet full of charm.
2. Xixinglong Street: A hidden gem for potstickers.
3. Sanlihe Park: A great spot for a walk and some relaxation.
4. Beijing Fang: A cultural landmark showcasing Beijing’s flavor – a must-visit hotspot.
5. Yangmeizhu Lane: A collection of artsy, niche shops.
6. Hubofang Bridge: The final stop and one of the liveliest streets in Beijing.

First stop is Dongjiaomin Lane. It’s not commercialized at all and isn’t too crowded. The morning sun streaming through the streets makes everything feel super chill. Start your journey here and soak in the quiet side of Beijing.

Must-Visit Little Shops

When you do the Citywalk, don’t just look at the scenery; take some time to step into those little shops hidden on the corners. That’s the essence of Beijing. Here are a few that I highly recommend:

• Jingwei Shiguang
  A lot of bloggers have recommended this place, and it really is worth a visit. They mainly sell souvenirs that showcase Beijing, like fridge magnets and keychains, all designed in a fun way. If you’re looking to get some gifts for friends, these are definitely a safe bet!

• PANGEAISM (Pu)
  This shop is a small building that everyone was taking photos in front of during winter. When I arrived, many were outside snapping shots. The building is quite unique, and the boutique items inside have a more modern design – not super local, but definitely a must if you like niche shops!

• Qiankun Space
  Don’t let the plain exterior fool you; once you step inside, you’ll see why it’s called “within lies the universe.” Almost everything here features Beijing elements. Although the designs might feel a bit rough around the edges (some items are quite simple), if you're after authentic Beijing vibes, this is the place to go.

Cozy Coffee Spots

Halfway through, you definitely want to find a café to take a break, and there are several great cafes along this route. They all have nice atmospheres, and even the terraces have their own Beijing flair.

• Cafe Notion
  This is my personal favorite. It’s an old Chinese courtyard converted into a café. After they opened the terrace last year, it got even busier. I ordered a latte and enjoyed the breeze on the terrace—it was super relaxing. However, the service can be hit or miss; mainly, people come here for the vibe.

• Fu 3 Coffee
  One of the first coffee shops in Beijing, this place holds a lot of memories for many. The terrace really adds to the experience, and on a nice day, sitting here sipping hand-brewed coffee makes you want to stay forever! Just remember to arrive early, as the terrace can fill up quickly.

• Wei Shui
  The entrance looks stunning, but I haven't actually been in to try the drinks. If anyone has been and can share their thoughts, that would be great! I’m just drawn to this shop’s beautiful exterior!

Delicious Restaurant Recommendations

A Citywalk isn’t just about exploring; eating is essential too! The restaurants along this route cater to all tastes.

• Suzuki Dining
  My top pick for Japanese food along this entire route. It’s a “go-to” place, whether you're dining solo or having a meal with friends. I had the sukiyaki and fried noodles, and both were fantastic!

• Ping An Potstickers
  If you're a potsticker lover, this place is a must-visit. The crispy skin wrapped around juicy filling is pure bliss in every bite! This shop was super popular in Tianshuiyuan, and now you can find it on Xixinglong Street.

• Zhang Yiyuan
  If you get tired, pop into Zhang Yiyuan. Grab some jasmine tea to bring as gifts, you’re totally safe here—classic and practical.

• PAGE ONE Bookstore
  Not strictly a restaurant, but I still want to mention this bookstore. It’s right next to Beijing Fang, so if you get tired, you can flip through some books while sipping coffee—so cozy you might not want to leave!

Ultimate One-Day Experience in Beijing

This whole route is truly satisfying! From local vibes to artsy spots, from delicious food to unique gifts, every stop has something surprising. Most importantly, whether you’re with friends or exploring solo, this route is full of fun. You can really feel the pace of Beijing, and every photo you snap captures a special memory.

Feeling tempted? Go ahead and plan your trip!