Hotel in Beijing 100009, Beijing, Beijing
Beijing Downtown Backpackers
One of Beijing's longest-running backpacker hostels, set directly on Nanluoguxiang. Offers basic dormitories and simple private rooms. The location is ideal for hutong exploration. Staff can arrange Great Wall tours and other excursions. A rooftop terrace provides views over the hutong neighborhood.
Beijing Downtown Backpackers is one of the capital's most enduring backpacker hostels, operating on Nanluoguxiang since the early years of Beijing's independent traveller scene. Its address at number 85 on this famous Dongcheng hutong places it among the cafes, boutique shops, and local residences that line the 800-metre lane, a short walk from the Drum Tower to the northwest and a fifteen-minute stroll from the Forbidden City's northern moat. The hostel's longevity on Nanluoguxiang reflects both its competitive pricing and its location advantage in one of Beijing's most sought-after pedestrian neighbourhoods.
The property offers basic dormitory accommodation in various room sizes alongside simple private rooms. Facilities are in line with the budget segment: clean shared bathrooms with reliable hot water, free Wi-Fi, and a communal area for socialising. The standout physical feature is a rooftop terrace providing elevated views across the surrounding grey-tiled hutong rooftops — a perspective on historic Beijing that is inaccessible from street level and provides a memorable backdrop for morning coffee or evening gatherings.
Staff are experienced in helping first-time visitors navigate Beijing and can arrange transport and bookings for the major excursions. Great Wall day trips to Mutianyu, Simatai, or Jinshanling sections are a standard offering, with the hostel acting as a booking intermediary for established operators. Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and day trips to the Ming Tombs are also regularly facilitated. The travel office is open daily and provides advice on ticketing, transport, and local dining.
The Nanluoguxiang location provides immediate access to cafes and casual restaurants from morning until late evening. For more substantial dining, the Gulou and Shichahai neighbourhoods offer traditional Beijing restaurants and roast duck establishments. The nearby Houhai lake area hosts Beijing's main hutong bar district. Subway access from Beixinqiao Station on Line 5 or Shichahai on Line 8 provides connections into the broader city. Nightly dormitory rates start at approximately CNY 80, among the most affordable on the Nanluoguxiang strip.
Amenities
- Dorm and private rooms
- Rooftop terrace
- Common room
- Tour bookings
- Wi-Fi
- Luggage storage
Location
85 Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100009
Highlights
- Rooftop hutong views
- On Nanluoguxiang
- Affordable Great Wall tours
- Classic backpacker vibe
Tips
- The rooftop terrace is best at sunset when the grey hutong rooftops catch the evening light — bring a drink from the convenience stores on Nanluoguxiang.
- Book Great Wall tours at least the day before; the hostel's operators fill quickly for the popular Mutianyu section, especially on weekends.
- Nanluoguxiang is at its least crowded on weekday mornings before 10am — ideal for a slow walk and breakfast at one of the local cafes.
- An international ATM can be found at China CITIC Bank on Di'anmen East Street, a five-minute walk from the hostel.
- Luggage storage is available for guests checking out before their transport departs — confirm storage hours at the front desk when checking in.
FAQ
Does Beijing Downtown Backpackers have a rooftop?
Yes, the hostel has a rooftop terrace with views over the surrounding Nanluoguxiang hutong rooftops. It is open to guests during daylight hours and is particularly popular at sunset.
Can the hostel book Great Wall tours?
Yes, the hostel arranges day trips to several Great Wall sections including Mutianyu. Bookings are made through the front desk and trips typically depart the following morning.
How long has Beijing Downtown Backpackers been operating?
The hostel is one of Beijing's longer-established backpacker properties, operating on Nanluoguxiang for well over a decade. It retains a classic backpacker atmosphere compared to newer boutique hostel entrants in the area.
What is the nearest subway station?
Beixinqiao Station on Line 5 is approximately a ten-minute walk south from the hostel. Line 5 connects to the Lama Temple area to the north and Beijing Railway Station to the south.
Accessibility
The hostel occupies a multi-storey building with shared stairwells and no elevator. Dormitory beds on upper floors require stair access. The property is not suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations. Nanluoguxiang itself is a paved lane that is accessible on foot.