• Journal of the Korean association of regional geographers
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• v.15 no.1
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• pp.53-66
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• 2009

This study explores the geographic characteristics of Hutong(alleyways) in Beijing. The word 'Hutong' originated from the Mongolian language, pronounced 'hottog' and meaning 'well'. In ancient times, people tended to gather and live around wells. After liberation, Beijing witnessed a rapid development in urban construction. A large number of residential areas were established and the number of alleyways in the city increased to over 6,000 from about 3,000 before liberation. In recent years, with the city's further modernization, more and more tall buildings have appeared in Beijing while the number of alleyways has been decreasing. 'Siheyuans(quadrangles)' are buildings with unique architectural features in Beijing's alleyways. In recent year, Siheyuans are changing to guesthouses, shops, bars, souvenir shops, restaurants and so on. Especially Nanluoguxiang(alleyway) is becoming an attractive area for tourism and cultural creativity in the ancient capital Beijing. Since 1990, 25 Hutong districts are protected for historical preservation by the Beijing Municipal Government.