QianHai

Along the west side of QianHai is Lotus Lane, a delightful river-side pedestrianised lane with a variety of cafes, tea houses, bars and boutiques that blend modern and traditional elements in their design. There are also some cafes, restaurants and bars on the east side.

Lotus Lane is only a few years old. The origins of the 'Back Lakes' area as a trendy hangout go back a bit further.

Some say that it all began when ex-concert cellist Bai Feng opened his 'No Name' bar (it is still there today). This place had no sign and filled up by word-of-mouth. Then the scene was set for a whole new generation of stylish establishments and the reinvigoration of an ancient area. The areas close to HouHai, QianHai and XiHai have become increasingly upmarket and bohemian. Today, these areas are as popular with tourists as with the local trendsetters.

QianHai is especially popular in the evening as the artistic modern lighting and neon, mixed with traditional red lanterns, creates a lively and inviting atmosphere. One can even take a romantic river boat out on the lake with softly glowing lanterns and a choice of drinks and snacks.

Follow the lake northwards to reach the popular area where QianHai joins HouHai at JinDingQiao (JinDing bridge, 'Gold Ingot' bridge). Just to the east from here is the road from JingShan Park to the Drum Tower.

There are plenty of charming bars along both sides of HouHai also, especially around the southern end and you will still find interesting places even as you stroll further north to where HouHai meets XiHai ('West Lake').

Just north of XiHai (west side) is JiShuiTan subway station. In ancient times, there were docks at JiShuiTan where goods were unloaded for the city of Ji (a very old name for what is now Beijing) after being transported along China's Grand Canal from HangZhou. Some of the boats docked in the Back Lakes (XiHai, HouHai, QianHai and ZhongNanHai).

This area, just north and west from the Forbidden City was a supply center for the imperial palace - and also a place to relax for courtiers, poets and painters working in the old imperial city that surrounded the Forbidden City.

The Grand Canal dates from the 5th century BC. During the Yuan Dynasty (14th century) the canal was widened, the Back Lakes were enlarged and docks here were thriving. The area is often referred to as ShiChaHai.

QianHai - part two
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QianHai Two

QianHai Three

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