Beijing Legation Quarter - Under The People's Republic

Under The People's Republic

At the time of the establishment of the People's Republic of China (1949), a number of foreign legations were still situated here, but after 1959 foreign missions were moved to Sanlitun outside the old city walls.

However, the area suffered much vandalism during the Cultural Revolution. More damage was inflicted since the 1980s due to Beijing's redevelopment. Several buildings, such as the former HSBC building, were demolished for road expansion. Some buildings are occupied by government institutions. A number of modern high-rise buildings have also been built, dramatically changing the area's streetscape. Nevertheless, as Beijing's most significant collection of Western-style buildings, the area is a tourist destination and is protected by municipal artifact preservation orders.

The former Legation Quarter is now home to several fine dining restaurants and retail shops. One such development operated by Handel Lee, a well known Beijing businessman, is "Ch’ien Men 23," as the place is branded, an integrated lifestyle development all within a restored building in the former Legation Quarter.