Understand

Sanlitun, also known as "Three mile village," is a bustling district in Beijing surrounded by foreign embassy districts. It is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, top-notch shopping, and exquisite dining options. After a day of touring Beijing, most visitors make their way to Sanlitun to experience the best of what this district has to offer. The heart of foreign nightlife in Beijing is located on a main "bar street" that is divided into north and south sections. Additionally, there is a side street with more casual and affordable bars, as well as a few clubs and discotheques scattered throughout. Sanlitun holds near legendary status among travelers, although it's important to note that you may encounter pushy bar-owners or knick-knack vendors. While it is considered the "old" nightlife district, since the opening of Western-style clubs in other areas, there might be better options if you're looking for a younger, party crowd. The main strip of bars along the east side of Sanlitun Lu, commonly referred to as Sanlitun North, boasts a variety of bars with pricey drinks. Don't be surprised if the doormen try to entice you into their clubs with special offers. On the other hand, the south section, located south of Gongti Beilu, is a commercial area with tall buildings. However, if you venture further into the compound area, you'll discover bars and restaurants that are popular among foreigners, particularly Westerners.]

Get in

Sanlitun is an exciting area located west of Tuanjiehu Station on Subway line 10. To get here, take exit A or D and follow the crowds away from the Third Ring Road, which is a huge expressway bridge over a major road intersection. It is one of those places that all the taxi drivers have no trouble understanding, so transportation won't be an issue. When it's time to leave, you might have to walk a short distance to find a regular taxi, but don't worry, there are many bus routes that run East-West, providing convenient options for getting around. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Sanlitun, where you'll find a mix of trendy shops, lively bars, and delicious restaurants.

Popular Foods

Dim Sum - A collection of small bite-sized portions of various Chinese dishes, which can include dumplings, spring rolls, barbecued pork buns, and egg tarts. These are often served as a brunch or pre-lunch meal, accompanied by tea.

Peking Duck - A whole roasted duck that is a specialty of Beijing, known for its thin, crisp skin, rich, tender meat, and flavorful fat. The duck is typically served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce.

Kung Pao Chicken - A stir-fried dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables (usually bell peppers and onions), and chili peppers, all coated in a spicy, savory sauce. It's a staple in Sichuanese and broader Chinese cuisine.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing