A pair of stone lions usually stands in front of the vermilion studded door with a painted lintel on the top. There are decorative patterns of flowers and birds.
Stepping over a high wooden threshold, you will find a stone screen standing ahead. It is built to avoid direct inspection from outside and also believed to dispel evil spirits. Next comes the outer courtyard, flanked by rooms to the east and west. These serve as kitchens and servants' living quarters.
On the northern end of the outer courtyard is the "Main House" which faces southward to get maximum daylight in the front 3-5 rooms. The up-turned eaves provide a pleasant shade in summer. One room located in the middle of the house is for living or community purposes with smaller bedrooms or studies beside it. Two passages on either side of the Main House, give entry to the inner yard. Rooms on each side were for married children and their families.
Some courtyards have greenery planted there, making an inner garden. Some large compounds have two or more courtyards, inhabited by an extended family with several generations. "Four Generations under One Roof", a novel by the contemporary writer Laoshe, depicts Beijingers in the 1930s and 1940s living in quadrangles.
Rickshaw Hutong (Walking + Rickshaw)
If you would like to have a glimpse into Beijing’ Yesterday, you are highly recommended to have a short adventure trip to the Hutongs.
Beijing Hutong Tour (Rickshaw Hutong, Bike Hutong and Walk Hutong) is organized by Beijing Xinhua International Tours.
Half Day Hutong Rickshaw Tour A (on foot and by rickshaw)
Activities: Visiting 300-year old courtyard, Rickshaw hutong tour, Walking along Yandaixiejie, Ascending the 69 steep steps to the Drum Tower
Pick-up point and time: Your Hotel either 8:30am or 1:30pm
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