Beijing Dashilan

"Pronounced “Dashilar,” this area is one of the city’s heritage neighborhoods. Starting out as imperial Beijing’s original central business district, it served the emissaries and dignitaries of the neighboring Forbidden City (something as lowly as commerce was not allowed on palace grounds). Later, the district became home to artistic types, including Peking Opera performers. When performance opportunities ran short, actors or singers might turn to prostitution, which meant this area doubled as an early red light district.Daguanlou, one of the world’s oldest continually running cinemas, offers the city’s most historic and intimate viewing experience — a screening room that seats fewer than 20 on plush red couches. Nearby, visitors can also indulge in a cup of third-wave coffee at Soloist while peering out over the historic hutong. Down the lane, check out the cool zine shop Boismou." - MATADOR_NETWORK