In the times we live in, nothing fires the imagination of cool kids quite like a disused industrial wasteland turned arty space complete with cafes and bars. But you’ve been to 798 so many times that you started seeing Yue Minjun’s “laughing face” in the mirror. Welcome to Fangjia 46, a former factory yard located in a hutong off Andingmennei Dajie. Although it’s a haven for hipsters, it’s also a good place for families to explore. Don’t miss Old-Toxin Tin Toys or Cenci Coffee for a cozy afternoon. Get down before the crowds show up – we think Fangjia could emerge as one of Beijing’s hutong hotspots into 2010 and beyond.
Cenci Coffee
Cozy cafe serving warm drinks and arty photography. Daily 10.30am-10pm. 46 Fangjia Hutong (just south of Guozijian Jie), Dongcheng District. (8400 2673) 参差咖啡馆, 东城区方家胡同46号艺术园区 (国子监南临)
Old-Toxin Tin Toys
Kids’ toys for grown-ups, with some genuine antiques thrown in for good measure. 46 Fangjia Hutong (just south of Guozijian Jie), Dongcheng District. (138 1091 6465, duckulagao@sina.com) 东城区方家胡同46号艺术园区 (国子监南临)
Aimo Town
Chock-full of ethnic minority accessories, with a long menu of Yunnan dishes.
Reasonable prices and efficient service. Daily 11am-10pm. Bldg G, 46 Fangjia Hutong (just south of Guozijian Jie), Dongcheng District. (6400 1725) 埃蒙小镇, 东城区方家胡同46号艺术园区 (国子监南临) G座
Shall Shine
Chuan’r, wings and Beijing draft beer in a cool contemporary space with requisite roof terrace. 46 Fangjia Hutong (just south of Guozijian Jie), Dongcheng District. 东城区方家胡同46号艺术园区(国子监南临)
Beijing Modern Dance Company Theater (No. 46 Theater)
The leading modern dance company in town hosts regular classes for all skill levels, and master classes once a month taught by invited international artists. Performances always feature student discounts. Seating is limited, so call ahead to reserve. 46 Fangjia Hutong (just south of Guozijian Jie), Dongcheng District. (8403 3799, info@bmdc.com.cn) 北京现代舞团 (46号剧场), 东城区方家胡同46号艺术园区(国子监南临)
