Going Underground: Shichahai, Line 8

 

Shichahai station, located just a stone’s throw from Houhai, is a sparkling new addition to the 
subway map, having been opened in late December last year. With the exception of East Shore Jazz Club and 4corners, the streets and hutong alleys that surround the great lake are mainly made up of unimpressive storefronts and 
irritating bars and restaurants. This month, we focus on some of the less talked about, but essential spots in the area, for those of you that think you know everything about the neighborhood. 
Hopefully, you’ll find there’s more to the area than you thought.

Get over to the Jinfan Water Sports Club at 81A Houhai Xiyan. This northern end of the lake is where Beijing’s dragon boat teams are gearing up for the Duanwu Festival on June 2. Every Sunday at 4pm and every Thursday at 7.30pm, Jinfan offers the chance to go out and get wet with other paddle enthusiasts under the guidance of coach He Ming. Following practice, hang out on their furnished dock and throw back a couple of cold ones lakeside with your new crewmates.

 

 

Kao Rou Ji, at 14 Qianhai Dongyan, has been servicing Beijing since 1848. This historical restaurant specializes in dubo sheep, which is thinly sliced barbecued lamb (RMB 198) served on a small hot plate and flavored with onions and cilantro. It’s a pretty simple dish, but super fresh and delicious, which explains why this restaurant has been frequented by the rich and famous from around the world for over a century. We recommend renting a boat and 
dining on the lake if you’re looking for a romantic 
alternative to your conventional restaurant experience. 

 

 

The surrounding one-stop shopping ground isn’t exactly a secret, but it’s an essential place to visit if you are in the process of building your nest in Beijing. Conveniently located south of Shichahai Station at 158 Dianmen Waidajie is Tianyi Market – keep an eye out for the statue of Santa Claus on the roof. As well as everything you could possibly need for your kitchen and bathroom, they stock various electronics, exercise equipment, and festive Christmas decorations to deck the halls when that time comes around. Only a minimal amount of haggling is required.