The truth is out there: Nessie, Bigfoot, and the Hutong Weasel.

Mustela sibirica. The Siberian weasel. A near-mythical denizen of Beijing’s ancient hutong alleyways. In Chinese, this animal is called a 黄鼠狼 (huang shu lang) – literally ‘yellow mouse wolf’. Most folks have never seen one. Many question their existence at all. But with their long, lithe bodies and little legs, these elusive creatures can dart across grey rooftops like gold streaks of lightning. Adult males grow up to 40cm long, with soft, thick fur well adapted to Beijing’s brisk winters.

Elderly locals say it’s good luck if you manage to encounter one of these noble beasts; and inversely unlucky if you bring harm to one. It is also said in China that the Siberian weasel is a wandering spirit (shen) that can steal and replace people’s souls. Eek.

Read More…

Woof! Say ni hao to this canine cutie (featured on our Facebook page last year) and its doting, hair-style copying owner. Why is it that folks in Beijing like their dogs so bloomin’ diminutive? Since 2008, a city ordinance has prevented residents from keeping dogs taller than 35cm at the shoulder. But we’ve come across mutts so minuscule they would struggle in a scrap against a pair of frisky hamsters. The moral? Be careful where you step. You might squash it.

The amazing fitting room

Wuhao, a boutique and arts space hidden behind a hefty wooden door on Mao’Er Hutong, may well be one of Beijing’s most exciting hidden gems. A mesmerising Spring installation currently inhabits the space (Wuhao changes its themes and wares seasonally) consisting of paper butterflies, eco-friendly clothing, foldable furniture and limited edition designs inspired by the elements of wood and earth.

But Wuhao’s best kept secret – the pièce de résistance if you will – is its fitting room.

Read More…

For some reason, the name of this restaurant makes us want to sing a certain Phil Collins song, but the main reason we are telling you about it is because it’s a great new addition to Beijing’s dining scene.

Don’t get us wrong, we love Chinese food. Otherwise we wouldn’t be here. But sometimes it’s nice to eat something a little lighter, and Susu -a new Vietnamese restaurant-  delivers just that.

Read More…

We heaved a sigh of relief when we first visited The Orchid. Not just because it took us a while to find the first time around, you understand, but because someone finally succeeded in creating a truly chic and comfortable hutong hotel in our beloved city.

Situated in the maze of lanes surrounding the city’s ancient Drum and Bell towers, The Orchid feels like a hidden gem from the outset.

Read More…