XinXiangYaYuan Courtyard

From the time we entered the XinXiangYaYuan Courtyard hotel through the impressive red doors we were treated wonderfully and felt like part of the family during our 6 nights at the hotel. The breakfasts had a wide range of delicious local and western foods, and the afternoon teas had lovely sweets and fruits. Our kids loved making coloured candy floss with the friendly staff. We loved how convenient the location was, a few minutes walk to either Dongsi or DengshiKou metro stations. While it looks like a traditional hutong accommodation from outside, and beautifully decorated and complemented with goldfish and tweeting birds, the inside is super modern and comfortable with its smart toilet and lighting. We loved our stay, and the delightful service, and would love to come back.

Set in a typical Beijing hutong, this charming little boutique hotel (with nine guestrooms) exudes the traditional feel of a siheyuan (courtyard), yet comes replete with modern amenities like wi-fi, projector tv and the ever helpful smart assistant XiaoDu to operate the lights, tell you the weather, provide wake-up calls, play music and other little tasks. The room is clean and comfortable with an ensuite bathroom complete with toiletries. The service staff are excellent from the point of checking in to checking out, and everything else in between. Dressed in somewhat traditional garb, always friendly and cheerful, they are the very charm of the establishment. Requests either made in person or via Wechat are met with prompt efficiency and a smile. Breakfast, which is included, is served in a small but well-appointed dining room. Typical Beijing breakfast fare is served, including porridge, noodles and various steamed and fried fare. For the weary guest after the day's exploits, "afternoon tea" is also available until late in the evening, with Chinese tea and assorted local snacks. Engaging conversation with the friendly and chatty owner tops up the wonderful experience.

It was a small property but the staff made it very welcoming for the guests with personalized services including breakfast and afternoon tea. It was about 10 minutes walk to Wangfujing shopping street and surrounding the accommodation there were some other f&b options and cafes.