If this describes you, then the Ban Qiao 4 Courtyard Hotel might be a good option for you. Even if you're traveling with your family, this friendly little inn will be able to accommodate you. It's very conveniently located not only within the second ring road, but also just a three minute walk from the nearest metro stop.
- Very central location within second ring road.
- Clean and friendly, laid back atmosphere.
- Kid-friendly, free internet in the common room, bike rentals available from lobby.
- Local color - right inside a hutong, a much different experience from staying in a big hotel.
- Breakfast included.
- Bathrooms very simple - you'll be showering between your toilet and your sink.
- A little noisy in the neighborhood - don't expect complete peace and quiet.
- No restaurant service, just breakfast in the morning, simple drinks in the evenings.
- No refridgerator in rooms.
- Ban Qiao 4 Courtyard Hotel
- Address: 4 Ban Qiao Hutong, Beixinqiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing
- Tel: +86 (0)10 8403 0968
- Email: 4banqiao@sina.com
- Website: http://www.4banqiaocourtyard.com/
At double their usual rates for the Olympics, the value wasn't quite there, but then again, that was going to be the case no matter where I stayed. My taxi had trouble finding it - fair enough, he'd never been there before. With a few helpful directions from neighbors, we found our way. Having only walked through these courtyard neighborhoods, I was curious to see what was behind the walls.
The large front door opens onto a square courtyard. Low buildings surround the courtyard housing a small reception lobby where you can check out a number of free publications, maps, rent bikes and peruse postings on a bulletin board. Next to this is the common room where you can gather in the evening to watch TV over a beer and have breakfast in the morning. The large courtyard is the main feature of the hotel and they've done a nice job landscaping and putting comfy seating around.
The rooms are located around the courtyard. Simple and clean, they've decorated the rooms with Chinese furniture. I took a "honeymoon" room for the queen-size bed. Situated in an old-style wooden bed frame, I was happy to find the mattress very comfortable with plenty of pillows.
The bathroom (see cons) was a little too simple for my taste. But overall, I found it a comfortable and convenient place to stay.
