November 6 2007: This is a bare-bones hotel but is well worth it for the price, location and authenticity. Lu Song Yuan is a traditional 19th century courtyard house in an excellent location in the middle of the ancient city, not far (25 minute walk/ 10 minute taxi) from the Forbidden City. The hotel arranged my pick-up from the airport which was very easy. My room was small and sparsely decorated but comfortable, and the staff was friendly and extremely helpful with how to get around the city. Though there are certainly no Frette sheets on the beds, I would recommend this place to anyone looking for the charm and character you probably won't find in any 5* hotel in Beijing.
Date of stay: April 2001
Purpose of stay: Leisure (Alone)
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Located in the heart of the ancient city in eastern Beijing everything about this hotel oozes tradition. The façade is quintessentially Chinese and the rooms, though well furnished with modern amenities, reflect authenticity.There is internet access, currency exchange and faxing facilities at the front desk plus a tea house and study room on the first floor as well as open areas for chess and tai chai practice. Guests can dine in the courtyard on Chinese and Western while watching traditional cultural performances.The hotel is a short walk from Beijing’s famous Old Bell Tower, the Drum Tower and Shichahai Lake.