Find the Real Beijing on an Amazing Hutong Journey of Discovery

BEIJING - Jan. 11, 2016 - PRLog -- The main hotel and its ultra-luxurious Hutong Courtyard wing have been designed to reflect the rich history of its surroundings, and to deliver a charming, elegant and unique experience in a modern-day setting.

Located at the former site of Xianliang Temple, the late Qing Empire’s Viceroy of Zhili and Minister of Beiyang Mr. Li Hongzhang’s former permanent residence in Beijing, who was the first Chinese guest to have stayed at the Waldorf Astoria New York and his visit served as a hallmark of great political, economic, diplomatic, religious and cultural significance to China’s long history of diplomacy. The Waldorf Astoria Beijing is not only a landmark but also the perfect place to embark on a journey of discovery of a bygone era.

The story of old Beijing is captured in its hutongs – alleyways which still house the homes of ordinary folk, artisan workshops and memories of the past. By intertwining the past with how the capital has evolved and transformed into a modern metropolis presents a richer tapestry for visitors to admire.

Every stay at the Waldorf Astoria Beijing is memorable and in keeping with its promise to deliver True Waldorf Service, guests can now experience an unforgettable, specially curated and personalized escorted tour of Shijia Hutong with expert guides and storytellers.The journey starts with the story of the hotel’s exclusive art and masterpieces followed by a carefully planned and executed hutong itinerary.

Shijia Hutong is a short 15-minute walk from the hotel and guests can choose to witness the busy morning rush hour or when it is less frenetic in the afternoon. They can choose to spend anywhere between an hour-and-a-half to three hours on a leisurely journey of discovery.

The walking tour begins with a visit to 1928, a shoe-themed cafe, followed by a closer look at the treasures housed in the Shijia Hutong Museum and a well-deserved rest stop at a tea shop in Slow Lane.

Starting life as a bespoke shoe shop, 1928 is a charming throwback to that era. The café is filled with delightful decorative items – such as an old-fashioned gramophone, antique telephone and sewing machine – which help to create a sense of nostalgia and take the guest back in time.

Imagine enjoying a delicious coffee and tasty snack and listening to the enthralling stories of the artisans who learned their craft from their grandfathers. If they wish, guests can also be measured for a pair of quality, handmade, one-of-a-kind shoes that reflect the unique style and personality of the wearer.

The hotel can assist guests with shipping the shoes once they are ready and receiving them will certainly bring back fond memories of the visit.

The Shijia Hutong Museum is a must-see as it is a treasure trove of knowledge on the history of the hutong and the celebrities who used to live there.

The Prince of Wales's China Foundation and The Prince's Foundation for Building Community helped to restore the building and the Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, visited the museum when he was in Beijing earlier this year.

The museum provides an authentic look at old Beijing and how life in the hutong has evolved. Guests can enjoy impactful images in the photo archive and take a closer look at the specially chosen artifacts used by residents tin the past. Guests can also listen to oral recordings and watch insightful documentaries at the museum.

As tea is another important aspect of Chinese culture, a visit to a tea shop in Slow Lane, in the heart of the hutong, is a most pleasant and enjoyable way to complete the tour.

As guests browse around the tea shop, they will learn the fine art of Chinese tea culture and get the chance to admire elegant handmade tea ornaments. They can also savor the delightful aroma and taste of exquisite tea and imagine how Beijingers enjoyed life in days gone by.

The culture and refinement associated with drinking tea is not only preserved but is also promoted as a sustainable way of life, and guests also support the local community when they shop.

It can be said that the Shijia Hutong Tour gives the hotel’s honored guests the perfect opportunity to discover and appreciate the real Beijing.

To make reservations, please call the hotel directly at +86 10 8520 8989