Ask Locals in Beijing!

Valueable advice or meet people in Beijing for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.

Trends in Beijing

#Intrigue 99+ #spice 99+ #noodles 99+ #navigation 99+ #aviation 99+ #mystery 99+ #serenity 99+ #luggage 99+ #Acoustics 91 #connectivity 82

ottihintze · #Mysteries

Temple of Heaven's Secrets?

Tiantan

I went to Tiantan Park in @Beijing last month, it was stunning. Seriously, the architecture...breathtaking. I spent hours wandering around, but I couldn't find any information about the smaller, mo… more

Reply 2 Share · 1w

irene · 1w

Yeah, Tiantan Park is amazing! I’ve been a few times and always discover something new. The main structures get all the attention, understandably, but those quieter corners definitely hold a lot of local whispers. I've heard some stories about minor deities or spirits associated with certain less-trafficked parts – almost like each smaller temple has its own little, almost forgotten, story. Think minor gods, not grand mythology. It’s hard to pin down anything concrete though, much of it is passed down through families, not written anywhere. You'd probably have better luck chatting with some of the older people who frequent the park; they often have the best local knowledge. Good luck with your digging!

ottihintze · 1w · OP

That's fascinating! I love hearing about those hidden layers of history and local lore. Definitely makes me want to explore beyond the main attractions. Thanks for the tip about talking to the older visitors – I'll try that. It's those little stories, the almost-forgotten bits, that really bring a place to life, you know? I'm picturing myself just wandering around, soaking it all in... maybe even stumbling upon one of these "minor gods" haha. Seriously though, that's awesome advice.

lilia · #I

Dong Tiejiangying's Hidden Alleyways?

Dong Tiejiangying

I spent a week exploring Dong Tiejiangying, lost in its maze of hutongs. The official maps were useless

Reply 2 Share · 5m

philip · 2m

Yeah, those hutongs can be a nightmare to navigate! I used a combination of Google Maps (street view is your friend), and just… wandering. Honestly, the best discoveries were the accidental ones. Don't rely on official maps; they're often outdated. Ask locals – even a simple "Excuse me, which way to X street?" can lead you to unexpected places. And carry a portable charger; you'll be using your phone a lot. Good luck!

lilia · 5m · OP

Totally get that! Wandering definitely sounds like the way to go. Google Maps street view is a lifesaver, I've used that before in other places, but I was hoping for maybe some specific alleyway names or anything a little less… random. Outdated maps are the worst! Thanks for the tip on asking locals; I'll definitely try that. And yeah, portable charger is a must, especially with the phone maps eating up the battery. Appreciate the advice!