Haidian District

Haidian stretches across the northwestern part of Beijing and forms a part of the city where large universities, research institutions and residential areas connect with each other. The streets are mostly wide and lined with modern buildings, older quarters and some green spaces.

During the Yuan Dynasty a small village stood here, which later under the Qing emperors grew into a trading post and administrative seat. In the 20th century several large universities were established here and later the area developed into an important site for science and technology.

Locals often call this area simply Haidian and many young people come here to study or meet in the many bookshops and cafés around the universities. On weekends and evenings you can see students on the squares and parks that belong to the campus or cycling through the wide avenues.

Several metro lines run through the area and connect it with the center of Beijing and other parts of the city, so you can find your way around easily. Many places are reachable on foot or by bike, but distances can stretch out, especially in the outer parts.

In Zhongguancun, which is known as the center for technology, you can find many electronics shops and markets where you can often buy the latest devices and rare components. Many young entrepreneurs also meet here in co-working spaces and cafés that are often open until late evening.