Beijing has about 4,550 alleys, which were scattered around the Forbidden City. Most of the alleys came into being during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. On both sides of the Hutong (alleys) are traditional siheyuan, the traditional Chinese compound with houses around a courtyard. The face-in structure has been seen as manifestation of the introspective Chinese culture. One of the best ways to visit the alleys is to go by pedicabs. With someone else pedaling for you, you just relax and take a good look at the alleys. The best route for a pedicab tour is around the Prince Gong’s Residence, where there are quite a few interesting alleys like the Dajinsi (Big Golden Line), Xiaojinsi (Little Golden Line), and Liuyin (Willow Shade) alleys.
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