Yangmeizhu Xiejie
Yangmeizhu Xiejie, a 500-meter-long historic alleyway in Beijing’s Xicheng District, is renowned for its Qing Dynasty-era architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Dating back to the 17th century, it was once a hub for traditional bookstores and printing houses, earning the nickname “Scholar’s Lane.” Today, it preserves gray-brick courtyard houses and wooden archways while hosting contemporary cafes, art galleries, and independent bookshops. A symbol of Beijing’s literary heritage, it offers a blend of history and modern creativity.
Historical Overview
Yangmeizhu Xiejie emerged during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) as a residential and commercial hub for scholars. In the early 20th century, it became a center for publishing, with over 20 bookstores, including the renowned Shijie Shuju (World Bookstore). The lane’s name, meaning “Willow, Plum, and Bamboo Lane,” reflects its poetic charm. Post-1949, it retained its historic character, and in 2010, it underwent renovations to become a cultural district, attracting artists and writers.
Structural Layout
The lane runs northeast-southwest, connecting Dashilar Street to Qianmen Avenue. Key features include:
- Courtyard Houses: Over 30 Qing Dynasty residences with wooden doorframes and central courtyards.
- Archways: Several well-preserved paifang (ceremonial gates) marking family honors.
- Historic Bookstores: Restored buildings housing modern bookshops and printing museums.
- Cultural Spaces: Galleries, cafes, and workshops in traditional settings.
Major Attractions
Modu Bookstore: A modern bookshop in a restored Qing Dynasty house, offering rare editions and literary events.
Qianmen Printing Museum: Displays historic printing presses and Qing-era books.
Traditional Archways: Over 10 Qing Dynasty archways with floral and calligraphic carvings.
Cultural Cafes: Coffee shops in historic buildings, such as Solitude Coffee.
Art Galleries: Contemporary exhibitions in converted courtyard houses.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (1–1.5 hours):
Start at Dashilar Street → Modu Bookstore → Qianmen Printing Museum → Traditional Archways → Exit at Qianmen Avenue.
Highlights: Core historic sites and literary heritage.
- Cultural Deep Dive (2–3 hours):
Add: Art galleries → Cultural cafes → Side lanes (explore hidden courtyards).
Highlights: Interactive exhibits and modern art.
Ticket Purchase
Qianmen Printing Museum: ¥15 (adults), ¥8 (students). Free for children under 1.2m.
Other Sites: Most bookstores and cafes are free to enter.
Online: Book museum tickets via WeChat mini-programs.
On-Site: Tickets available at museum entrances; cash preferred.
Subway: Line 2 to Qianmen Station (Exit A), walk 5 minutes west.
Bus: Routes 2, 5, 8, 20, 22, 48, or 59 to Qianmen Stop.
Taxi: Direct to “Yangmeizhu Xiejie” (Yangmeizhu Lane).
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Visit early (9–10 AM) or late (4–5 PM); weekends are busiest.
Season: spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather.
- Essentials:
Wear comfortable shoes (cobblestone paths).
Bring cash for street vendors and small cafes.
Photography allowed (respect residents’ privacy).
Prohibited: Selfie sticks, drones, and loud noise.
Try Local Snacks: Laba porridge (sweet rice porridge) from vendors near Modu Bookstore.
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What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
