On a cold January morning, I ventured out with my winter gear to explore Beijing's hutongs once again. Having roamed around these alleys and neighbourhoods before, my better equipment this time would offer a refreshed look at these disappearing city scenes. Alternatively, some have become "Disney-fied" and are no longer authentic.
The Drum Tower was originally built in 1272 and rebuilt several times since then. Today's structure dates from the late 1800s. While its timekeeping function ended in 1924, it is now open to the public as a tourist attraction.
Just to the north is the grey Bell Tower, which also had a timekeeping function until 1924. The 60-ton bell was once sounded with the drums for morning and night.
Nanluogu Xiang is a renovated hutong whose main street has been pedestrianized. It is an example of a "Disney-fied" historic neighbourhood. Venture onto the side streets leading from it for more quieter residential areas.
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