Field notes

Mixed feelings over Beijing's move to clean up hutongs

Urban upgrade has positives, but some lament loss of character and bustle

Once the homes of Chinese nobles and royalty, Beijing's hutong alleyways have in recent years seen trendy bars and restaurants moving in. But a government campaign has turned many of the once-lively streets silent.
Beijing is cleaning up its ancient alleyways as part of a three-year plan to sanitise its image. About half of the city's hutongs, which are home to people from all walks of life, have been sanitised so far. Many observers believe that the initiative
Beijing is cleaning up its ancient alleyways as part of a three-year plan to sanitise its image. About half of the city's hutongs, which are home to people from all walks of life, have been sanitised so far. Many observers believe that the initiative is an attempt to drive out migrant workers. ST PHOTO: DANSON CHEONG
The government has been bricking up Beijing hutongs' illegal storefronts since 2017, affecting local businesses. Some residents have criticised the move, but others say it has restored peace and quiet.
The government has been bricking up Beijing hutongs' illegal storefronts since 2017, affecting local businesses. Some residents have criticised the move, but others say it has restored peace and quiet. ST PHOTO: DANSON CHEONG
Danson Cheong
China Correspondent
Updated
Mar 02, 2019, 05:40 AM
Published
Mar 02, 2019, 05:00 AM
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BEIJING • A signboard with the words "community services" is displayed outside Mr Chen Baodong's home in Baochao Hutong, one of Beijing's narrow alleyways.

For more than 20 years, Mr Chen has been the neighbourhood's resident handyman, mending locks, gas stoves and electric cookers.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on March 02, 2019, with the headline Mixed feelings over Beijing's move to clean up hutongs . Subscribe

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