Beijing’s cultural heartbeat isn’t only in its museums or major theatres. Across hutongs and hidden alleys, you’ll find independent art spaces, small theatres, and indie bookstores that keep the city’s creativity alive. Often non-profit and artist-run, these places are authentic, raw, and inspiring — true hidden cultural gems in Beijing.
Here are 7 spots that show the capital’s alternative side.
📍 Location: Gulou West area
✨ Why it’s special: Xiaozu is one of the most versatile independent art spaces in Beijing. It combines live art performances, small exhibitions, experimental theatre, film screenings, and even massage workshops. It’s a creative playground for artists and audiences.
💡 Our Beijing Tip: Programs change quickly. Follow their WeChat for updates. If you join our Hutong Bike Tour, you’ll pass through Gulou West — making it easy to pair cycling with a stop at Xiaozu.
📍 Location: Jiaodaokou, Dongcheng District
✨ Why it’s special: Dajiaodao is a small non-profit venue dedicated to community-based projects, art sharing, and cross-disciplinary experiments. It’s less about polished shows and more about process, dialogue, and exchange.
💡 Our Beijing Tip: Expect casual, participatory vibes rather than big exhibitions. After visiting, you can walk over to Dongsi or join our Foodie Tour nearby for a perfect art + food combo.
📍 Address: No. 35 Dongmianhua Hutong, Dongcheng District (next to Central Academy of Drama)
✨ Why it’s special: Founded in 2008, Penghao is Beijing’s first independent theatre. Tucked inside a hutong courtyard, it hosts original plays, small-scale performances, and acting workshops for both professionals and theatre lovers. It’s the true hub of Beijing independent theatre.
💡 Our Beijing Tip: Seating is limited — book tickets early. Many performances offer English surtitles. Arrive a bit early to enjoy the small courtyard café, where you might spot actors before their show.
📍 Address: 49 Qianchaomian Hutong, Dongcheng District
✨ Why it’s special: This iconic independent bookstore in Beijing is more than just books. It’s a cultural hub that mixes literature, exhibitions, and coffee, sometimes even Beijing-style snacks like baozi. You’ll often find talks or readings by local writers.
💡 Our Beijing Tip: The vibe is especially good in the afternoon. Pair a visit here with our Hutong Tour — books + hutong history = perfect Beijing afternoon.
📍 Address: 58 Yangrou Hutong, Xicheng District
✨ Why it’s special: This spot is playful, stylish, and creative. Inside you’ll find magazines, photography gear, quirky objects, curry rice, and strong coffee. It’s half bookstore, half café, and fully unique — ideal for dates or slow weekends.
💡 Our Beijing Tip: Spend a lazy afternoon here, then explore nearby hutongs by bike. Our Custom Itineraries often include Xicheng hidden spots like this.
📍 Location: Hutong area (exact address shared via WeChat)
✨ Why it’s special: True to its name, Another Bookstore is small, curated, and cozy. Expect shelves stacked with art books, alternative literature, and occasional pop-up events like film screenings or poetry readings.
💡 Our Beijing Tip: It’s best to follow their WeChat — events are irregular but worth it if you’re into underground culture.
Q: Are these spaces foreigner-friendly?
Yes. While most signage is in Chinese, the atmosphere is welcoming. With Our Beijing, we help you navigate language and logistics so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
Q: Can I combine several spots in one day?
Absolutely. Many are in hutong neighborhoods. Combine an art stop with our Hutong Bike Tour or Foodie Tour for a cultural day that mixes art, history, and food.
From independent art spaces in Beijing to independent bookstores and Beijing independent theatre, these are the city’s cultural gems beyond tourist sights. If you want to explore them with ease, join Our Beijing. Whether it’s a Hutong Bike Tour, a Foodie Tour, or a Custom Itinerary, we’ll curate your perfect day of culture, creativity, and connection.