High-rise buildings and shopping malls are littered throughout Beijing. But smaller, less visible buildings in the alleys of this modern metropolis are an indispensable part of the city: the hutongs. The gray-tiled old houses and alleys give a wonderful glimpse into traditional Beijing lifestyle and culture.

People play, chat, eat and relax together in the hutongs, painting the picture of a lifestyle that is much different from life in the city’s high-rise apartments. The historic hutong buildings are also becoming popular pads for young, hip foreigners. Many of them come to Beijing looking to experience and the traditions and culture of this ancient capital.

Beijing is a modern, buzzing city, but the hutong culture is rooted in old Beijing customs; for this reason, they become a top choice for eager foreigners to live. This video introduces the audience to a Portuguese woman named Carolina. Carolina chats about the charm that drew her and some of her foreign friends into the hutong lifestyle.

Related Readings:

Deep in the Hutongs Part I: The old Beijingers	Deep in the Hutongs - Part2: Migrant workers	Gourmet renaissance in Beijing's hutongs