Shichahai is a scenic area located in the Xicheng District of Beijing, China. It is a popular tourist destination and cultural hub, known for its historic buildings, traditional hutongs (narrow alleys), and three interconnected lakes: Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai.
Shichahai is located approximately 3.5 kilometers northwest of the Forbidden City, and there are several ways to get there.
Bus: take bus 124 at Gate of Divine Prowess, the north gate of the forbidden city, get off at Gulou Stop (鼓楼 Drum Tower), walk along the street to the north for about 100 meters, and then turn left for another 100 meters to reach the park. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs 2 RMB. This should be the best option to get to Shichahai.
Subway: Take subway line 8 at Jinyu Hutong (金鱼胡同) near the east gate of the Forbidden City, get off at Shichahai Station, exit from Exit A2, and walk about 230 to the northwest to reach the park. This journey takes about 25 minutes and costs 3 RMB.
But since most people finish their tour in the Forbidden City at the North Gate, this option means you need to first walk a long distance to get to the east gate, which can be pretty time-consuming.
Bike: You can also scan the QR code and rent a shared bike on the street. In this way, you will get to Shichahai in about 20 minutes and pass through alleyways that most tourists ignore.
Taxi: It takes about 20 minutes and 18 RMB by taxi to reach the park. But traffic congestion can be exceptionally serious in Beijing during peak times, which can significantly prolong the time and boost the cost. So, Please pay attention to the time. If you do not speak Chinese, you can show the following words to the driver “请带我去什刹海望海楼”.