When you try to think of new projects Beijing needs, another shopping center is probably not the first thing that comes to mind.
However – and bear with us on this one – the city’s latest testament to its consumeristic culture is actually worth checking out.
On May 25, Zhonghai Daji Alley (aka Daji Alley) opened on Luomashi Jie alongside the Second Ring Road in Xicheng.
Design concept for Daji Alley. Image via AI
This isn’t just another modern mall monstrosity – it’s an elaborate hutong complex with meticulously restored courtyards and screen walls.
Daji Alley took over nine years to complete and covers more than 360 square meters above and below ground.
It includes numerous historical buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties that have been stunningly renovated.
image via Beijing Business Daily
It is part of the overpass project for Beijing Metro Line 4 and Line 7, and it is located just 2.5km from Tiananmen Square.
It features over 150 brands, with flagship stores and customized shops accounting for more than half of the outlets; it boasts everything from avant-garde boutiques, such as Double Boo, to popular lifestyle brands like MUJI.
Double Boo at Daji Alley. Image via Superfuture
It also has national stores such as an Oriental Aesthetics Collection Store and the Intangible Cultural Heritage Tea and Snacks Shop.
They’ve also got the culinary scene covered with renowned chains – such as Michelin-starred Qiao Dong Bei – serving up both signature and exclusive offers.
For those of you who have been missing the great days of Traktirr Pushkin, the Russian Kitchen restaurant at Daji Alley will not only offer the best borsch, but a great range of European dishes.
There are also restaurants that highlight Beijing’s local cuisine, including Yangfang Shabu and No. 69 Fangzhuanchang Zhajiangmian.
Furthermore, the complex is not just a place to shop and dine – it will serve as a cultural center with a variety of exhibitions.
The opening week will see an exhibition on ancient book restoration, a contemporary art exhibition, and a display of ‘Silk Road Civilization Art.’
For all of those who enjoy an Instagrammable outing, check out the Monet Garden Landscape currently on show – the 3D floral display makes a great backdrop.
Even fashion-forward ayis are getting in on the action!
Monet Garen Landscape. Image via Baijiahao
The project also includes six ‘cultural protection courtyards’ set aside as free museums.
It encompasses the former residence of the famous scholar and calligrapher Kang Youwei, which will display alternating collections his works – just one example of how this unique shopping center blends buying disposable objects with irreplaceable historical experiences.
Image via China Daily
In addition, the compound is a high-end eco-development and has earned prestigious certifications, including a Three-Star Green Building Rating, LEED Gold, and WELL Gold.
Each building in the cluster utilizes the latest zero-carbon impact technology, and the complex incorporates 12,000 square meters of ‘green lung’ for the city – including five major gardens.
There is also a basketball court and paths to stroll along – adhering to Beijing’s recent focus on creating ‘urban oases’ for city dwellers.
Image via Beijing Business Daily
Zhonghai Daji Alley strikingly stands apart from other major brand malls in Beijing – as a cultural hub that closely combines the protection of the city’s heritage with urban renewal.
It manages to organically blend traditional culture with modern elements, its mix of careful transformation and clever utilization of existing buildings creating a fashionable, high-end mall – making for a truly unique shopping destination worth spending a summer afternoon exploring.
[Cover image via Dajiale]
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