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Discover Local in Beijing

Nestled in Beijing’s vibrant Dongzhimen area, Jianguo'er Coffee is a unique haven founded by two entrepreneurial Beijing women. The ambience reflects a blend of upbeat charm and traditional touches, offering a welcoming retreat in the bustling city. The creatively curated menu has artisanal coffees and light bites, specialising in one of Beijing’s most beloved street foods, the jianbing. The cafe elevates this classic pancake into an art form. Each one is made with care, combining traditional flavours with a touch of modern flair. The result is a satisfying blend of nostalgia and innovation. A warm, inviting space, this is the perfect setting for you to enjoy a hearty jianbing alongside a rich, freshly brewed cup of coffee, blending comfort and sophistication.

Try an innovative jianbing at Jiaguo'er Coffee Bar

Legend has it that the chief of the emperor’s army invented it 2,000 years ago for his soldiers, who held their shields over the fire as griddles. Fillings vary between regions. Beijingers eat theirs with egg, herbs and spicy sauces. You can find vendors all over the city, such as Huangtaiji, a chain of street stalls specialising in traditional fast food.

Jianbing are always cooked while you wait, for maximum freshness. The chef spreads batter over the hot griddle with a wooden paddle, breaks onto it one or two eggs and sprinkles over coriander leaves, spring onions and sauces. A crispy-fried wanton wrapper is added for some crunch. Once it’s cooked, expert hands swiftly fold it into a portable pocket for you to eat as you explore the city streets.

Breakfast on a jianbing crepe at a Huangtaiji stall

Locals of all ages gather in places like the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace and Jingshan Park, moving through slow, flowing motions that mimic the grace of animals and birds. It’s a stimulating way to start the day, and joining in gives you a real sense of the balance and harmony that are so important in Chinese culture. The morning light streaming through the trees, the symmetry of temple architecture and your movements synchronised with those around you all serve to elevate the experience. 

Tai Chi isn’t just for experts — it’s gentle, easy to follow, and improves your health and energy. Some tour companies even offer beginner-friendly sessions in these parks, so you can jump right in. Whether you’re looking to try something new or just enjoy a calm morning, Tai Chi in Beijing is a meaningful way to connect with the city and its people.

Stimulate mind and body with Tai Chi in Jingshan Park

A TCM clinic can open your mind to ancient healing methods like acupuncture, herbal remedies and therapeutic massage. They cure ailments, promote well-being and overall balance.

Visit the Tongrentang Zhima Health Coffee Bar, blending ancient wisdom and contemporary lifestyle. This century-old brand dates back to the 1700s, when Tong Ren Tang was appointed as the imperial court’s supplier of herbal medicine. It's now a hotspot in the heart of Beijing. At street level, a cosy cafe serves healthy creations like goji or motherwort latte — subtly infused with beneficial herbs that flavour the coffee without overpowering it. Upstairs, a clinic combines TCM diagnostic expertise with cutting-edge technology to craft personalised health plans. It’s more than just a clinic; it’s a “third space” where you can sip, shop, relax and explore holistic health.

Traditional Chinese medicine at Tongrentang clinic

This is not only an opportunity to discover Chinese culinary culture and techniques, it will also equip you with creative skills that will remain with you wherever life takes you. You can learn how to make hand-rolled noodles and dumplings, how to slice, grate, mince and debone using a cleaver, often the only cutting tool in Chinese cuisine.

At Hutong Cooking School in the Dongcheng district, a 90-minute class will teach you to prepare three regional dishes, and you can take the recipes away to recreate an evocative memory at home. Make Beijing street food in your own kitchen! Classes end with lunch or dinner around the table, where you enjoy what you and your classmates have cooked using your newly acquired skills. Times and menus are flexible. Private lessons can even be arranged if none of the public ones suit your schedule.

Dive into local cuisine at Hutong Cooking School

The game developed in 19th-century China and has since spread throughout the world. The beautifully crafted tiles, depicting winds, dragons, bamboo, flowers and seasons, add to its charm. Whether it’s in homes, teahouses or parks, mahjong is a spirited affair filled with laughter, chatter and the occasional triumphant shout. Played by four people, it’s a mix of skill, strategy and luck, making it both fun and mentally stimulating. 

For locals, it’s a way to relax, bond with family and friends, and keep the mind sharp. Visitors can easily join in on the tradition, with clubs like the Hutong offering workshops where friendly locals are happy to teach the basics. Whether you’re new to the game or just curious, playing mahjong in Beijing is a wonderful way to experience the city’s culture and share in its sense of community.

Discover Local in Beijing

Breakfast on a jianbing crepe at a Huangtaiji stall

Try an innovative jianbing at Jiaguo'er Coffee Bar

Traditional Chinese medicine at Tongrentang clinic

Dive into local cuisine at Hutong Cooking School

Stimulate mind and body with Tai Chi in Jingshan Park

Try your hand at mahjong at Hutong cultural centre