Southern Districts: Chongwen and Xuanwu

Life in the southern part of Beijing has a completely different rhythm. The sites in this part of town are ancient reminders of the Beijing that once was—a more religious and artistically inspired Beijing, a Beijing as rich in culture and history as it was in resources and political power. This area is crowded with small shops, European architecture, opera and acrobatic theaters, and street performers and magicians. A lazy stroll through Source of Law Temple or Antiques Street (Liulichang) on a quiet afternoon is sure to remind you of the city's past.