Houhai and Qianhai Lakes and the Hutongs

On our second day in Beijing we once again braved the crowded, but efficient Metro system and headed off to Houhai and Qianhai Lakes and the Hutongs. The air was still reasonably clear and it was lovely to find such tranquil spots in amongst the bustle and crowds. Beijing's population is about 22 million, almost the same as the population of the whole of Australia.

Looking across Qianhai Park.

As it was Sunday, lots of families were out boating.

The water lilies were beautiful.

The Jinding Bridge.

Of course tea is very big here and this is a Chinese Tea House. The woman is performing a traditional tea making ceremony.

We wandered through the Hutong area. Hutong means water well and the Hutongs are the preserved alleyways of old China.

This is one of the fancier doorways. Behind the doors there are small courtyards and several generations live here together. Actually with so many people living there they are quite ramshackle. There is no plumbing, so public facilities have been built in the alleys for them to share.