In the depths of Beijing's Wangfujing hutongs, you'll encounter Youlan Hotel

Soaking pools, guzheng performances, and afternoon tea—a hidden slow-paced life in old Beijing. When we talk about Beijing, images of golden palace walls, crowded tourist spots, and towering skyscrapers inevitably come to mind. But if you're looking for another side of the city—softer, quieter, and more steeped in history—then you must step into the hutongs. Near Wangfujing, tucked away in the Bensi Hutong of Dongcheng District within the Second Ring Road, lies a small courtyard that makes you "want to stay forever"—Youlan Hotel. 🌿 Not a hotel, but more like a private residence As you walk into the hutong, the noise of traffic fades, and the alley grows quieter. Pushing open Youlan’s carved wooden gate feels like stepping into another world. The courtyard is paved with gray bricks, stone lions guard the entrance, and bamboo and orchids grow in the garden. When the wind blows, the leaves brush against the walls with a gentle rustle. In the afternoon, sunlight filters through the trees onto the stone slabs, softening even your breath. There are no glass skyscrapers, no cold corridor carpets, nor generic lighting fixtures. Everything feels natural and effortless, as if this were the home of an old friend, and you’re just here for a short stay. 🛁 Soaking pool rooms｜Bathing under the moonlight, watching it climb the tiled eaves Youlan doesn’t have many rooms—just a few dozen in total—making it peaceful and private. If your budget allows, opt for a room with a soaking pool. At night, sink into the stone tub as warm water envelops you, and gaze up at the hutong rooftops and the night sky. The pool is filled with real mineral hot spring water, leaving your skin delicately warm afterward. Pair it with a cup of hot tea or a moment of quiet contemplation—pure, unhurried bliss. 🎶 Guzheng live performances｜A pot of tea, a melody, and the noise fades away At Youlan, a guzheng master occasionally performs in the courtyard. The moment the strings are plucked, the entire courtyard seems to hold its breath, leaving only the music echoing between the stone walls and wooden windows. Many guests say that sitting in the courtyard, sipping tea and listening to the guzheng, gives them a true sense of "Beijing’s unhurried grace." It’s not the contrived ambiance of a café but the natural ease and confidence nurtured by this ancient city. 🍵 Afternoon tea｜Savoring Youlan, one bite at a time Youlan’s afternoon tea is exceptional. The hotel uses seasonal fresh fruits and delicate pastries, serving floral tea in blue-and-white porcelain pots, still steaming when brought to your table. Sitting in the courtyard, watching the light shift across the stone steps, refilling your cup as it cools—this is the perfect vacation rhythm. 🚶 The bustle of Wangfujing and the tranquility of the hutong, separated by just a wall The hotel’s location is ideal: A 5-minute walk to Dengshikou or Dongsi subway stations Less than 2 km to Wangfujing Street A short stroll to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Jingshan Park Spend the day exploring Beijing’s lively attractions, then return to Youlan at night and sink into the hutong’s serenity. This is the best of Beijing: endless vibrancy paired with effortless relaxation. 💚 The little details that make you "want to stay" 🛏️ Modern room amenities: Underfloor heating, smart toilets, a full tea set, HD projector… Yet the bedding and pillows are meticulously chosen—soft yet supportive—with many guests praising how "soundly they slept here." 💁 Attentive but unobtrusive service. The front desk and staff offer just the right amount of help, never rushed, always putting you at ease. ｜If you want to slow down in Beijing, come to Youlan Youlan doesn’t offer flashy promotions or gimmicks. Instead, it pours its heart into the bamboo shadows in the courtyard, the details in the rooms, the aroma of tea and snacks, and the warmth of its service. That’s why so many guests return after their first stay, leaving with a quiet remark: "In Beijing, it’s so nice to just soak in a bath, listen to the guzheng, and gaze at the hutong sky." Next time you’re in Beijing, don’t rush from sight to sight. Stay at Youlan first—let time slow down and your heart soften.