Beijing, China
Lakeside area with hutongs, bars, and live music. More authentic than Sanlitun but watch for tea ceremony scammers. Stick to main areas.
Houhai Lake is where historic hutongs meet lakeside bars and restaurants. Since the early 2000s it's become a nightlife spot with 120+ bars along the lake - jazz clubs, craft breweries, live music venues. You get traditional courtyard architecture next to neon-lit bars. Popular with foreign visitors and young locals, busy from 8pm-2am. During the day the lake is calm - locals doing tai chi, families walking. Main lakeside areas are safe with steady foot traffic and police around. Places like Great Leap Brewing and The Roots get a friendly crowd. East Shore Live Jazz Café is Beijing's main authentic jazz bar. This is also a major spot for the tea ceremony scam - decline invitations from overly friendly strangers. More authentic and local than Sanlitun, lower prices, though less English spoken.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Good"Nice setting but lots of tea ceremony scammers"
"Main areas felt safe with people around"
"More authentic than Sanlitun"
"Good live music and casual bars"
"Stay on main lakeside areas, avoid isolated hutongs"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
UNESCO heritage area around the Drum and Bell Towers. Mix of traditional hutongs, cafes, and nightlife. More local feel than Sanlitun, still accessible.
Historic hutong alleys with cafes and courtyard architecture. Good during the day, cheaper than international districts. Stick to main streets after dark.
University district with student cafe culture and budget prices. Safe, local atmosphere. Limited nightlife but good for working in cafes away from tourist areas.
Help other women stay safe in Houhai Lake Area
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.