Neighborhoods reflect city traditions

Editor's Note: While the number of Beijing's hutong has shrunk dramatically over the past two decades, the character of the old neighborhoods has continued to evolve, offering an irreplaceable glimpse of the fast-changing city's past. China Daily explores.

Routes offer glimpse into capital's past

When one talks about Beijing, one of the first things that comes to mind, in addition to the signature historical scenery such as the undulating Great Wall, or the Forbidden City with its red walls and green tiles, is hutong.

Special streets boast interesting features

Stretching for 6.5 kilometers, Dongxijiaominxiang is the longest hutong in Beijing.

Names of hutong recall both common folk, elite

There is an old saying that circulates widely in Beijing: "There are 360 hutong with names, and countless nameless ones". It accurately reflects the state of things in a city densely covered by hutong within its central areas.

China leads fight against AIDS

Country has the potential to eradicate the dreaded epidemic and the lessons learned can re-engineer HIV efforts across the world

Cartoon

Silk Road initiatives fit into EU recovery goals

In recent years, the West has urged Beijing to shoulder more global responsibility, and since the 2008-09 financial crisis, these demands have become ever more insistent. But when Beijing offers its solutions to the world, other powers are inclined to simply turn the other way.

Mayor sets example by heeding public voice

The mayor of Zhengzhou, capital of Henan province, Central China, has been praised by the public for replying to a recent open letter by a city resident criticizing his government's failure to reduce air pollution. That such a normal act has become news itself testifies the lack of a regular interaction mechanism between government officials and grassroots people.

Civilian aircraft union on the way

Chinese aircraft parts manufacturers will set up a union soon to improve development of the civilian airliner industry, according to Zhang Hui, executive vice-president of AVIC International Holding Corp.

Fares in Beijing to increase on Dec 28

Beijing residents will soon bid farewell to ultra-low subway and bus fares.

Public transport

Metro: Passengers will pay 3 yuan (49 cents) for a metro trip if it is within 6 km, 4 yuan for 6 to 12 km, 5 yuan for 12 to 22 km, 6 yuan for 22 to 32 km, and an additional 1 yuan when the trip increases by 20 km after exceeding 32 km.

Yearlong inspection aims to halt environmental violations

China is to launch a yearlong comprehensive inspection aimed at checking for environmental protection violations, according to a circular released by the State Council.