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.

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ottihintze · #Ivy

Peking University's Hidden History?

Peking University

I spent a week wandering Peking University's sprawling campus, completely mesmerized by the ancient architecture nestled amongst modern buildings. The sheer scale of it was breathtaking! I soaked in… more

Reply 1 Share · 1mo

korneliahelms · 1mo

Wow, that sounds amazing! Peking University is huge, I've only ever visited a couple of buildings myself. Ivy-covered courtyards... that definitely sounds like something worth investigating further. You'd probably have better luck finding info on that specific inscription at the university archives or maybe even contacting the history department directly. They're likely to have records and perhaps even someone who can translate the inscription. Good luck with your research! It sounds like you uncovered a really interesting piece of Beijing's story.

korneliahe… · #Hutongs

Lost in Machikou's Hutongs

Machikou

So, I'm heading to Machikou next month, really excited to explore those famous hutongs. I've read they're a maze! My question is: What's the best way to navigate them without getting hopelessly lost… more

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karinamittag · 1d

Download a map app offline before you go. Seriously, cell service can be spotty in the hutongs. Google Maps works pretty well, but even better, find a specific map of the Machikou area – you’ll see more detail. Then, pick a few main streets to use as your bearings. Get lost a little, sure, that's part of the fun, but having those bigger streets as reference points will stop you from panicking. Also, take lots of pictures of street signs as you go, just in case. Trust me, it helps way more than you think. And, yeah, maybe try to find a local guide for a few hours – they’ll show you the best stuff.