Fueling Up in Shichahai Snack Street in Beijing

Ready to indulge in some matcha ice cream or grilled meat skewers generously dusted with spicy seasoning? Let’s head to Shichahai food street!  I used to wonder why so many travel blogs and vlogs focus so much on trying local food — until I traveled to Beijing. That’s when I truly understood just how diverse and flavorful Chinese cuisine is. Let me tell you, it was tough going back to my own bland cooking after that.

One of the best ways to experience food in China is through its street food. We got our first taste of juicy, meat-filled buns in one of the Beijing’s famous tourist attractions Shichahai — a lively food district that not only offers an incredible variety of local delicacies, but also picturesque views of three of Beijing’s famous “seas”: Lake Xihai, Lake Houhai, and Lake Qianhai.

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In our story about Shichahai snack street:

The 3 Seas of Shichahai in Beijing

During the day, the area around the three lakes in Shichahai is wonderfully peaceful. The calm, blue waters are shaded by tall trees with delicate, dangling branches — I think they’re weeping willows? The lakes are bordered by elegant white stone railings, and the surface is dotted with wooden boats. Some glide gently across the water, carrying tourists, while others rest quietly, waiting.

Let’s pause here for a moment and soak in the serenity of Shichahai while I share a fun fact of the day. Why did I call these lakes seas? Well, if you translate the names from Chinese to English you get: Qianhai – Front sea, Houhai – Back sea and Xihai – Western sea. It’s a little hint on how huge these lakes are.

The Chill Vibe of Shichahai Snack Street During the Day

From the lakes, we wander into the nearby streets of Shichahai, which are filled with all kinds of souvenir shops and street food stalls. You’ll see everything from spiky durians to crispy rice snacks, calamari tentacles, and so much more. Meat skewers are grilled right in front of you, and some of the drink stalls have glasses that are mysteriously smoking — can someone explain to me what’s going on there?

Choosing what to try is a challenge in the best way. Eventually, we settle on a warm, juicy meat bun, a bucket of crispy fried calamari, and oil-fied stinky tofu. This one wasn’t too stinky though.

Snacks in hand, we wander further into the heart of the street, watching others nibble, sip, and snack their way through the afternoon.

And just to clear up a common misconception — you won’t find scorpions in Shichahai snack street. While some food streets in China might feature exotic offerings for curious tourists, our guide explained to us that Chinese themselves don’t actually eat scorpions.

With so much still left to taste, I’m already thinking: we’ll definitely be back for dinner.

The Upbeat Atmosphere in Shichahai Snack Street After Dark

As the sun dips below the Beijing skyline, Shichahai undergoes a transformation — and begins to glow. Neon lights buzz to life, casting shimmering pinks and electric blues across the surface of the quiet lake. What was a laid-back street just hours ago is now pulsing with energy. Every bar seems to be in a friendly rivalry, each one trying to outdo the other with live music that spills into the street and draws customers in.

The change in pace is unmistakable. Where there was space and quiet earlier, now there are waves of people moving from one snack stand of Shichahai to another, drawn in by the sizzling aromas and tempting displays. Vendors, mellow by day, have turned up the volume — calling out to passersby, advertising their specialties with contagious enthusiasm.

At first, it might feel like pure chaos — glowing signs, clashing sounds, the buzz of the crowd — but somehow, it all blends into something magical. It’s a vibe. And honestly, I’m here for it.

Now the only question is: what are we having for dinner?

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Thoughts?

I found the area of Shichahai to be very beautiful by day and very fun by night. There is just something about the buzz and endless possibilities of foods you have never tried that draws you in. 

PS: if you’re planning a trip to China – check out my list of tips, tricks and things you need to know when planning a China trip. It covers the basics like payments, navigation and more.