Introduction
Shichahai is a historic scenic area of three interconnected lakes—Qianhai, Houhai and Xihai—in Beijing's Xicheng District, just northwest of the Forbidden City. Dating back to the Jin and Yuan dynasties, it is lined with willow trees, hutong alleys and siheyuan courtyards, and is home to sights like Prince Gong's Mansion and Soong Ching-ling's Former Residence. Today it's known for lakeside bars and nightlife, pedicab hutong tours, and pedal-boating in summer.