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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inka · #exploration

Machikou Mysteries?

Machikou

So, I'm heading to Machikou next month. I've heard whispers about a hidden alleyway, supposedly filled with incredible street food that isn't on any tourist maps. It's said to be near the old temple… more

Reply 1 Share · 4w

lilia · 4w

Good luck! Machikou's a maze, even for locals. Near the old temple... that narrows it down to, what, half the neighborhood? Seriously though, your best bet is just wandering around. Get lost. Embrace the chaos. Ask people – shopkeepers, even random folks on the street. Point at a picture of some delicious food on your phone (if you have one), and they’ll probably lead you to something amazing. Don't expect a neatly signposted alley; that's not how it works in Machikou. The best finds are accidental.

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

Reply 1 Share · 1d

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.