Huguosi Street, Beijing, also commonly known as Huguosi Snack Street or Huguosi Hutong Snack Street, is a treasure trove of traditional snacks, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. This lively 600-meter street is perfect for travelers seeking to experience authentic Beijing life. Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, Huguosi Street offers a delightful blend of flavors and stories that capture the spirit of old Beijing.
Huguosi Street Overview
Huguosi Street is steeped in history, dating back over 700 years to the Yuan Dynasty. It was originally named Chongguosi Street and later renamed during the Qing Dynasty to Huguosi Street, after the Huguo Temple. This charming street runs from Xinjiekou South Street in the west to Deshengmen Inner Street in the east. Despite its modernization, it retains an authentic and vibrant atmosphere, bustling with merchants, snack shops, and visitors.
In 2011, Huguosi Street was officially recognized as one of Beijing’s characteristic commercial streets. It showcases over a hundred regional snacks, drawing both locals and tourists.
Unlike overly commercialized hutongs, Huguosi Street remains full of life. Local residents shop at the butcher’s or grocery stores, snack on street food, and enjoy performances at the historic People’s Theater. For visitors, this is a chance to explore a quintessential Beijing street that blends the old and the new seamlessly.
How to Get to Huguosi Street
Getting to Huguosi Street is simple and convenient. The easiest way is by subway. Take Beijing Subway Line 4, 6 and 19 and exit at Pinganli Station (Exit B).
From there, walk about 100 meters, and you’ll see the large Chinese characters “護国寺街” marking the west entrance to the street.
If you prefer a taxi or ride-sharing service, just input “Huguosi Snack Street” or “护国寺街” into your app for navigation. Walking the entire length of Huguosi Street takes around 10–15 minutes, but you’ll want to linger at its many attractions and snack shops.
Huguosi Street Snack Guide
Huguosi Snack Street is a paradise for food lovers. Below is a guide to some of the must-try snacks and popular eateries:
1. Huguosi Snack Flagship Restaurant 护国寺小吃（总店)
This is the most iconic eatery on Huguosi Street. It offers a wide range of traditional Beijing snacks like wandouhuang (pea cake), douzhi’er (fermented mung bean milk), jiaoqian (crispy dough rings), naiyou zha gao (cream fried cake), ludaguan (steamed glutinous rice rolls), and miancha (noodle tea).
Huguosi Snack Flagship Restaurant Address： No. 93 Huguosi Street (Opposite People’s Theater).
Tel: 010-83281700
Each dish costs around 30 yuan, making it affordable for first-time visitors. The shop is always busy, so plan ahead. It’s a great introduction to the authentic flavors of Beijing.
2. Huifeng Men Ding Meat Pie Restaurant 惠丰门丁肉饼店
This shop is located at the eastern end of the street. Known for its Men Ding Rou Bing (fried meat pie), zha guanchang (fried sausage), and zha jiang mian (noodles with fried bean paste).
It’s a must-visit for those craving savory snacks. The noodles are especially popular for their authentic taste and perfect texture.
Huifeng Mending Meat Pie Restaurant Address: No. 67 Huguosi Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
Phone: 010-83223298
3. Honghua Pastry Shop 红花点心局
For dessert lovers, this shop is a dream come true. Their specialties include Queen Rolls, Tiramisu, and Butterfly Pastries. While you might need to queue, the sweets are worth the wait.
The storefront is clean and tidy, and customers pay in an orderly manner. The kitchen is open and transparent, with fresh ingredients that give customers peace of mind while dining.
Honghua Pastry Shop on Huguosi Street is located at No. 68 Huguosi Street (opposite Huguo Xintiandi). Business hours are from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
4. You’s Old Beijing Court Cheese 游氏老北京宫廷奶酪
This tiny eatery specializes in nai lao (court-style milk cheese) and dou sha nai juan (red bean milk rolls). These desserts are light, creamy, and melt in your mouth.
It is different from Western cheese. It was introduced to the Qing Dynasty court from Mongolia, refined in the imperial palace, and eventually became a traditional snack popular among the people of old Beijing.
You’s Old Beijing Imperial Cheese Address: No. 80 Huguosi Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (near Huguosi Hotel)
5. Huguosi Snack Culture Experience Center
护国寺小吃文化体验馆
The Huguosi Snack Culture Experience Center offers visitors a chance to experience making traditional old Beijing snacks.
In addition to the hands-on snack-making experience, the center sells various Beijing-style snacks. These include douzhi (fermented mung bean drink), jiaoquan (crispy fried dough), creamy fried cakes, crispy pork, and Jingbajian (eight traditional Beijing pastries). It is said to offer more than 100 kinds of Beijing snacks.
Address: No. 61 and 63, Huguosi Street. For a unique twist, try their douzhi’er ice cream or wandouhuang. This spot combines culinary delights with a cultural experience.
6. Fuhua Zhai Pastry Shop 富华斋饽饽铺：
Fuhua Zhai Pastry Shop was founded by Mr. Wang Xifu （王希富先生）, a descendant of the Qing Dynasty imperial kitchen. The shop follows traditional handcrafted methods to create a variety of palace-style pastries. The interior decor is rich in historical charm, featuring a golden, ornate facade, patterned small floor tiles, old-fashioned phonographs, palace lanterns, and luohan sofas, all of which create a strong imperial atmosphere.
Fuhua Zhai’s main products include rose fire cakes, old Beijing dried fruits, Sun Niefen’s white cake, rose chestnut paste pastries, watermelon yogurt, kidney bean rolls, pea cakes, and donkey rolls. These pastries not only inherit the essence of ancient imperial court desserts but also have a delicate, soft texture and a sweet, non-greasy taste, making them highly popular among customers.
The average cost per person at the shop is around 60-70 RMB, with both dine-in and takeout services available. Fuhua Zhai Pastry Shop is not only a great place to sample traditional pastries but also an excellent spot to experience old Beijing culture.
Address: No. 85 Huguosi Street
Phone: 010-83229001
Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Historical Buildings on Huguosi Street
The street also features many old and well-known shops and historic buildings, such as the Huguosi Hotel and the People’s Theater. The People’s Theater, with a history of nearly 70 years, was once the stage for legendary Peking opera artists like Mei Lanfang.
1. Huguo Temple
Huguosi Street is named after the Huguo Temple. This temple, built in the Yuan Dynasty, was originally called Chongguosi Temple. In the Qing Dynasty, it was renamed Huguosi Temple and became a center for Buddhist worship. The temple covered 18,000 square meters, with iconic structures like the Jingang Hall and Thousand Buddhas Hall.
Huguo Temple was once known as “The West Temple,” in contrast to “The East Temple,” Longfu Temple, located on the eastern side of Beijing.
Today, the only remaining part of Huguo Temple is the Jingang Hall, which can be found just north of the Huguosi Hotel and Huguo Xintiandi Mansion on Huguosi Street. Walk along Huguosi Street, then turn north into Huguosi East Lane (护国寺东巷). After about 50 meters, you will reach the Jingang Hall of Huguo Temple.
2. Mei Lanfang Memorial Hall
Located at No. 9 Huguosi Street, this is the former residence of Mei Lanfang, a legendary Peking opera artist. Originally part of a Qing Dynasty prince’s mansion, the house was transformed into a memorial in 1986.
Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and costumes that celebrate Mei Lanfang’s life and contributions to Chinese opera.
3. People’s Theater
Founded in 1953 and officially opened in 1955, the theatre has a charming and elegant exterior, blending rich cultural heritage with modern facilities. It was one of the first modern venues for Chinese opera performances after the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Many famous artists, including Mei Lanfang, performed here, witnessing the development of Beijing opera and traditional Chinese theatre in the new era.
In recent years, the Beijing People’s Theatre has evolved into a multifunctional venue. It now hosts live performances, film shoots, exhibitions, art training, and cultural displays. It serves as a base for the preservation of opera arts and has also made significant contributions to film production.
People’s Theatre is located at No. 74 Huguosi Street, Xicheng District, Beijing.
4. Liyuan Bookstore 梨园书社
Liyuan Bookstore is located at No. 74 Huguosi Street, Xicheng District, Beijing. It is a unique bookstore focused on Beijing opera culture. The store is right next to the People’s Theatre and is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Liyuan Bookstore stands out for its rich Beijing opera atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find a wide range of books about Beijing opera, from detailed professional works to accessible introductory books, catering to readers of all levels. Additionally, the bookstore has a tea and coffee area, where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea by the window and experience the lively ambiance of Huguosi Street.
Hotels on Huguosi Street
Staying near Huguosi Street is convenient for travelers who want to explore the area’s vibrant atmosphere and historical charm. Here are two popular options:
Huguosi Hotel (护国寺宾馆)
Located at the western end of Huguosi Street, this hotel offers a blend of affordability and convenience. Rooms are clean and comfortable, with easy access to Huguosi Snack Street and nearby attractions.
It’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a central location for exploring Beijing’s hutong culture.
Manju Hotel (漫居酒店)
This boutique hotel provides a modern and stylish experience close to Huguosi Street. Its rooms combine contemporary design with traditional Chinese touches, offering a unique ambiance.
Guests enjoy premium amenities and easy access to the street’s snacks and landmarks. Perfect for those seeking a cozy, upscale retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Experience the Authentic Hutong Life in Huguosi
Huguosi Street offers an immersive experience into the heart of Beijing’s vibrant hutong life. Unlike some of the more commercialized hutongs like Nanluoguxiang, Huguosi Street is a bustling, lived-in neighborhood where locals continue to carry on everyday routines.
As you stroll down the 600-meter stone-paved street, you’ll be surrounded by a colorful mix of street-front shops, food vendors, butcher’s stalls, and traditional groceries. The lively atmosphere here is unlike any other. The sound of sizzling snacks, the chatter of shopkeepers, and the occasional clink of bicycle bells create a true urban soundtrack.
This street remains a community hub, with many local residents still living in the area, making it a more authentic and grounded Beijing experience. You’ll find everything from old-fashioned eateries and snack stalls to antique stores and small boutiques. The narrow alleys open up to reveal hidden gems, from old hutong courtyards to local markets selling fresh produce.
While many visitors come for the food, the charm of Huguosi lies in its everyday street life. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, where you can experience the pulse of old Beijing in a way that feels both intimate and real.
Nearby Attractions and City Walk
Huguosi Street is ideally located for exploring some of Beijing’s most fascinating landmarks. From tranquil temples to scenic lakes, the surrounding area offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s a recommended walking route to help you make the most of your time exploring nearby attractions.
Morning:
Start your day by visiting the Miaoying Temple (White Stupa Temple) and the Emperos Temple of Past Dynasties, located just a short walk from Huguosi Street. These historical temples offer a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to immerse yourself in Beijing’s ancient cultural and spiritual heritage while enjoying beautiful architectural features.
Noon:
After a peaceful morning, head back to Huguosi Snack Street for a delicious lunch. Stroll along the street, exploring the many snack shops and local eateries. Try traditional Beijing delicacies like douzhi’er and jiaoqian, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this bustling historic street full of local life.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, continue your exploration by walking east to Shichahai, a scenic area with lakes and traditional courtyard houses. Take a relaxing stroll along the lakeside or rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding hutongs. This area offers a mix of history, nature, and local Beijing culture, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Final Tips for Visiting Huguosi Street
Plan Ahead: Huguosi Street is popular and can get crowded, especially on weekends. To make the most of your visit, it’s best to arrive early in the day. This way, you can avoid large crowds and have more time to explore.
Bring Cash: While many shops now accept digital payment, smaller food stalls or traditional stores might still prefer cash. It’s always a good idea to carry some local currency for convenience.
Try Something New: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Huguosi Street offers many unique snacks, such as douzhi’er (fermented mung bean milk), which has a distinctive taste that locals love. Trying new dishes will make your experience even more memorable.
