These photographs were taken at the beginning of January (been traveling and unable to upload before), after I learnt that the wrecking ball would soon come to the neighborhoods surrounding the historic Drum and Bell Towers (Gulou and Zhonglou). There has been (to my knowledge) a single mention in the state run media.
There is much controversy surrounding the clearance of these communities. I don't have much to add to the debate, living with no plumbing or heating can't be fun, but it is sad to see another slice of old Beijing life vanish.
The wrecking ball is coming...
Hutong rooftops.
Street barber working in the shadow of Zhonglou.
Board games. Anyone know the name of this one?
Chinese hacky sack.
Policemen working hard.
Two wheels are still king in the hutong.
For all your wild fowl needs.
Earning a crust in the hutong.
Very few of the buildings have indoor plumbing (or heating), leaving residents reliant on public conveniences. The toilets are suprisingly clean and well looked after.
Toilet attendant relaxing in what remains of the afternoon sun.
An elderly woman buys a snack of baked goods.
As is often the case, the market is something of a focal point for the community.
A stall selling Cultural Revolution propaganda poster reprints, aimed at the tourist market.
Always time for a game of cards.
Many residents have turned the front rooms of their homes into restaurants or bars. Here one proprietor relaxes whilst waiting for customers.
A portrait of Zhang Manhao in his courtyard home.
Sunset over the hutong.
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