The Lake District is a traditional neighborhood in central Beijing.
In ancient times the Bell and Drum Towers were musical instruments and timekeeping devices. Today, they are historical landmarks.
The locals regularly take strolls through their beloved hutongs.
Small fortunes are won and lost in games of Mahjong, often played in public parks.
Doorways leading to central courtyards are sometimes left open.
Other doors are locked with chains and padlocks.
Sanitation workers ride through the hutongs on bicycles...
And emerge carrying full loads of trash and recyclables.
Street food is abundant in the hutongs...
As are bicycle rickshaws...
And smokers...
And street performers.
Unfortunately, some of the houses are crumbling...
And others are being demolished.
