An Absolute Hangout in Beijing---Houhai

Situated in the center of Beijing,Houhai is both sophisticated and cool at daytime or night. In the evenings the lakeside's shores buzz with activity — people come here to enjoy a relaxing drink and dinner in the bars, cafes and restaurants that line the lakeside.And, during the daytime it is really lovely to spend time walking around the three man-made lakes that make up the Houhai area. It is also the ideal place to get a feel for Beijing's changing seasons. In winter you see people skating on the lakes and particularly hardy locals diving into their icy depths.

But once spring hits, Houhai offers quite a different atmosphere. Ducks are out swimming at this time, while many visitors enjoy boat-rides on the lake. You will also spot sunbathers resting after a dip in the water.

Although in recent years Houhai has become yuppified, this part of Beijing has been considered chic for centuries. Houhai and the adjoining lakes of Shichahai and Qianhai are collectively known as the Back Lakes. They were created in the 14th century to berth barges from the Grand Canal that were bringing goods from around China and beyond to the emperor in his nearby Forbidden City.

This proximity to the palace is what gives this area its charm, and as you stroll around the lakes you can see the homes that were frequented by the country's former elite. Former residents include Zaifeng, Prince Chun II, who was the father of Puyi, China's last emperor. The prince's mansion and gardens later became the residence of Soong Ching-ling who is sometimes regarded as Asia's first female non-monarchial head of state. Along with her husband, the revolutionist and political leader Sun Yat-sen, Soong Ching-ling is considered one of China's most significant political figures of the early 20th century. She was made Honorary President of the People's Republic of China just weeks before her death in 1981.