The guidebook overstates this place. It is relaxing and a pretty place and you can explore some hutongs (which are sadly a bit commercial now) in the area. The lake is pretty but the whole area has gotten touristy and it is a bit busy....More

The lakes were beautiful, but the streets were touristy.Maybe you can relax on the lake, just sitting on a bench, not strolling along the lakes. If you do not have much time to stay in Beijing, you can miss Houhai.

I had a blast here as a tourist alone, very safe! Felt like I experienced the culture here. Many people were taking wedding photos here that is how you know it is a pretty area. It is lively and family oriented. Also, there is a...More

The lakes were pretty and the Hutong areas authentic but the rickshaw ride we took was a complete tourist trap. The driver feigned not knowing english and kept saying ‘half hour 40 minutes’ then stopped at a ‘house’ which charged to enter the front door...More

Walked around both lakes and took in the sights and sounds of Beijing people and visitors playing on the ice - even swimming. It was during the day so I did not go to any of the bars around the edge of the lake. I...More

This place is nice to spend an afternoon walking along the lake side. Unfortunately the area (tea houses) and attractions (pedalling) are horribly expensive

A nice place to have a drink and listen to live music. It also sports many restaurants at which you can eat.