2026 Yu’er Hutong Beijing Travel Guide: Qi Baishi Former Residence Next to Nanluoguxiang, Tickets, Opening Hours and Transportation Routes

If you visit Nanluoguxiang in Beijing, don’t miss the quiet, story-filled Yu’er Hutong next door. Like a
“fishbone” on the western side of Nanluoguxiang’s “fish spine,” it hides centuries of history and the footprints of artistic masters.

Quick Overview

• Location: West of Nanluoguxiang, bordering Nanluoguxiang to the east and the Yuhe River Ruins to the west
• Highlights: Qi Baishi’s Former Residence Memorial Hall, historic Qing Dynasty siheyuan courtyard, the old course of the Yuhe River, and the old stone curbs
• Historical Background: Formerly known as Yulong Hutong during the Ming Dynasty and the site of the Yellow Banner’s garrison during the Qing Dynasty, this historic alleyway was once home to many prominent figures
• Recommended Visit Time: 30–45 minutes
• What Struck Me Most: A quiet oasis in the heart of the city—just a few steps away, yet a world apart

The Name and Location of Yu’er Hutong

Yu’er Hutong connects to the bustling Nanluoguxiang to the east and ends at the Yuhe Ancient Waterway to the west.

Known as “Yulong Hutong” during the Ming Dynasty, it was renamed “Yu’er Hutong” during the Qing Dynasty when it belonged to the Yellow Banner, a name both romantic and endearing. In 1979, it reclaimed this historic name.

A simple archway bearing the characters “Yuer” stands at the alley’s western entrance. A few steps further west lie the Yu River Ruins.

There, waterways run alongside the alley, shaded by lush trees and winding cobblestone paths. Some call it “the canal within the alley,” offering a serene beauty starkly different from the bustling Nanluoguxiang.

The Beijing Residence of Master Artist Qi Baishi

The most renowned spot in Yu’er Hutong is the Qi Baishi Memorial Museum at No. 13. Qi Baishi ranks among China’s most celebrated painters.

This courtyard represents a standard siheyuan (quadrangle courtyard) built during the mid-Qing Dynasty. In 1955, the state specifically purchased this residence for Qi Baishi.

Though the elderly master, accustomed to his former home, lived here for only about half a year, it remains a pivotal chapter in his artistic journey.

Following its restoration in 2011, it opened to the public as a free memorial museum.

Inside the museum, visitors can appreciate the distinctive features of Qi Baishi’s painting style. After settling in Beijing in 1919, he developed a unique approach known as the “Red Flowers and Black Leaves” school. Simply put, he painted flowers in vivid reds and leaves in deep black ink.

The stark color contrast radiates vitality and energy. Many of his subjects—shrimp, Chinese cabbage, lotus flowers—draw instantly recognizable, beloved imagery from daily life.

Other Notable Residents of the Hutong

This compact alleyway has also been home to numerous historical figures:

• During the Republic of China era, socialite Dong Shuping resided at No. 11-15 (Dong Family Compound).
• During the Qing Dynasty, the annual banner office managing Manchu affairs was located on the north side of the alley.
• Marshal Su Yu and Marshal Luo Ronghuan, founding generals of New China, once resided at courtyards 33 and 31, respectively.

Today’s Yu’er Hutong

Now, courtyard 30 has transformed into an intriguing public space called
“Yu’er Renjia.”Renovated from vacated residences, it serves as a community living room where locals gather for meetings, chats, and shared activities, keeping this ancient alley vibrant with life.

Yu’er Hutong | Complete Guide to Eating and Exploring (Includes Transportation + Route Connections)

 How to Get There? (Super Clear)

• Subway: Take Line 8 to Nanluoguxiang Station and exit via Exit F.
• After exiting the station, walk into Nanluoguxiang. When you reach the middle of the alley, look for the “Yuer Hutong” sign and turn right.
• Bus: Routes 107, 124, and 60
• Get off at the “Nanluoguxiang” stop, then walk into the alley for 3–5 minutes to arrive.
• Driving: Not recommended—there are no parking spots nearby, and the area is crowded.

Best Walking Route (No Backtracking)

Main Street of Nanluoguxiang → Entrance to Yuer Hutong → Former Residence of Qi Baishi → Photo Spot at Old Doorsteps → Ancient Yu River Course → Exit Connection

An easy, stress-free walk with no detours, no lines, and no crowds.

Where is the entrance? (Easy to spot)

It’s located in the middle section of Nanluoguxiang. Look for the blue sign on the wall that reads: Yuer Hutong.

Next to it are an old locust tree and an old stone doorstep—it’s incredibly artistic and peaceful.

Exit Connection (Direct Access to Scenic Views)

Exit through the west gate to reach the Old Yuhe River Path directly.

Just a 1-minute walk away, you’ll find:

small bridges, flowing water, green willows, stone-paved paths—a miniature version of Jiangnan in Old Beijing.

Surrounding Connections (Explore Everything in One Go)

Yuer Hutong → Qi Baishi’s Former Residence → Yuhe River → Mao Dun’s Former Residence → Chiang Kai-shek’s Former Residence → Nanluoguxiang Cultural and Creative Street

Explore famous figures’ former residences and Old Beijing culture all in one go.

Tips to Avoid Pitfalls (Truly Useful)

Don’t buy anything in Nanluoguxiang—it’s expensive, a rip-off, and the food isn’t good.

Yuer Hutong is completely free; there are no fees.

Qi Baishi’s Former Residence is free to visit; no reservation required.

Ignore the “tour guides” at the entrance—it’s most enjoyable to explore at your own pace.

You can walk the entire route; no need to take a taxi.

Best Time to Visit?

Dusk: 4:30–6:00 PM

As the setting sun casts its glow on the old walls, stone steps, and ancient locust trees,

the soft light, fewer crowds, and peaceful atmosphere make it a fantastic spot for photos.

Travel Tip

After exploring the bustling Nanluoguxiang, take a westward turn and spend half an hour strolling through Yuer Hutong.

Visit the courtyard where Qi Baishi once lived, take a leisurely walk along the Yu River Old Course, and experience the quiet, artistic side of Beijing’s hutongs.

It’s free, less crowded, and rich in stories.