Abstract
This paper addresses the transition of Hutongs from alleys connecting the main streets to fully commercialized districts. Hutongs are narrow streets formed by rows of Siheyuans (quadrangle dwellings), a traditional type of Chinese architecture consists of four houses surrounding a courtyard. The architectural layout of Siheyuan is four houses surrounding a courtyard. There are several types of Siheyuans, including the Beijing Siheyuan. Along with the development of Beijing since 1949, numerous Siheyuans were demolished. However, since the 1980s, many Hutongs were brought under national and local protection. Some of the best preserved Hutongs, especially those in the center areas of Beijing, are now more commercialized than they were prior to the ‘80s. This paper discusses the causes as well as consequences of such commercialization. Literature concerning the Hutongs frequently discusses the Hutongs' history and the shift in their architectural design, as well as other aspects that have changed over time. By contrast, this paper discusses a special phenomenon of Hutongs in Beijing — commercialization — and focuses on the causes and results of it.
Highlights
With more than 740 years of history, Nanluoguxiang, is a typical example of a commercialized Hutong
The area has a relatively appropriate commercialization level compared to most of the commercialized Hutongs in Beijing because the buildings retain most of their original functions, the local living pattern art mostly kept in the 16 remaining Hutongs and the Siheyuans are preserved
The section of this paper explores a potential solution to these issues — a new method that could, possibly, help us define an “appropriate” level of commercialization. 4.2 A Solution to Avoid the Negative Consequences of Commercialization The two cases discussed in the previous section reveal how difficult it is it is for a successful commercialized Hutong to attract visitors while maintaining its culture and architecture
Summary
With more than 740 years of history, Nanluoguxiang (in Chinese: 南 锣 鼓 巷 ), is a typical example of a commercialized Hutong. Conservation districts with historic sites, such as Nanluoguxiang, have attracted a large number of visitors. In 2016, Nanluoguxiang attracted more than 30,000 visitors daily, while the number of visitors at any one time was 17,000 people, which exceeded what the site could handle. Nanluoguxiang stopped receiving tour groups so as to control the number of visitors. Nanluoguxiang's popularity is largely related to its commercialization. The commercialization of such Hutongs is a result of multiple factors, which will be discussed in the following pages. Before a discussion of these different factors, a brief overview of the government policies concerning the preservation and commercialization of certain Hutongs, as well as the change in form and number of Hutongs, is necessary
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