is a monthly feature that explores the lives of famous historical figures who lived in Beijing’s
hutong. In this edition, we look at the life of Tian Han, the man who wrote the lyrics to the Chinese national anthem and who once lived in Xiguan Hutong.
A small and fairly run-down gray courtyard home lies in Xiguan Hutong, Dongcheng district. As far as
hutong go, Xiguan is a far cry from more gentrified areas like Nanluoguxiang.
Nearby you’ll find the Beijing No. 5 Middle School, a bathhouse, convenience stores and a bar that looks like it’s seen better days.