For those who are willing to probe the way the Chinese live, a jaunt down the intricate maze of BeIjing's hutongs is essential. Organized tours of Beijing hutongs are available. You will be taken by pedicab (a tricycle cab), which was very popular in the old days to visit the Bell and Drum Towers, Prince Gong's Mansion and even to pay a visit to an ordinary Beijing family in the compound houses. If you are there at a meal time, you may be invited to a family "banquet" with local diSHes.

In the rich and historical culture of Beijing, the Hutong has a very special and important position. Beijing's Hutongs are not only an appellation for the lane but also a kind of architecture. It reflects the vicissitude of society.