"Skyscrapers can be seen anywhere around the world, but
Hutong (lane or alley) is the unique feature of Beijing," said a
Canadian tourist after his tour of Nanluoguxiang Hutong.
Nanluoguxiang Hutong is located near the axis of Beijing. In the
beginning of 2006, Beijing municipal government started a project
to rebuild some famous Hutongs, including Nanluoguxiang. Some
Beijingers are worried lest the rebuilding damage, even destroy the
original feature of Hutongs; however, the project has its aim only
to restore the Hutongs to their original conditions.
The protection of Hutongs together with the quadrangles in
Beijing is actually to protect the Hutong culture, as it will play
a very important part in responding to the BOCOG's "humanistic
Olympics" slogan, as Hutongs are the live record of history and
culture of Beijing as an ancient capital.
Hutongs have not changed much since they were built, which will
make it easy to restore their original appearance. After
rebuilding, the names of the alleys and quadrangles will all be
kept.
Though the Hutongs will still look the same as before from the
outside, life in Hutongs will be more convenient, as tap water and
sewerage will be installed.
(Chinanews.cn August 14, 2006)
