Landmark
Ghost Street (Gui Jie)
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
Ghost Street, or Gui Jie, is a vibrant culinary destination in Beijing's Dongcheng District, stretching along Dongzhimennei Main Street. The street comes alive after dark, with hundreds of restaurants and food stalls glowing under red lanterns, creating an energetic and festive ambiance. It's particularly renowned for its spicy crayfish (xiaolongxia) and Sichuan-style hotpot, but you'll find a wide array of regional Chinese dishes, from Beijing duck to grilled skewers. The street's name, 'Ghost Street,' originates from its history as a night market where vendors operated by lantern light, and today it remains a favorite spot for locals and tourists seeking authentic late-night eats. Visitors can wander through the bustling crowds, pop into any restaurant that catches their eye, and enjoy a meal that's as much about the experience as the food. The area is also dotted with shops selling snacks and souvenirs, making it a lively cultural hub after sunset.
Don't miss
- Sample the famous spicy crayfish (xiaolongxia) at popular spots like Huajia Yiyuan or Gui Jie Xiao Yu.
- Try Sichuan hotpot at a bustling restaurant for a communal dining experience.
- Explore the street's red lantern-lit ambiance, especially after 9 PM when it's most lively.
- Visit the small souvenir and snack shops for local treats like candied hawthorn.
- People-watch and soak in the energetic street scene, a favorite among Beijing's night owls.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Ghost Street (Gui Jie)
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Ghost Street (Gui Jie) with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inBeijing Historic City Guided Walking Tour + Calligraphy Creation4.9★ · 78 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →
Most bookedForbidden City Guided Group Tour with Entry Tickets|Multi‑Departs4.9★ · 2,101 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Night Tour: Discover Beijing in Bustling Lights4.9★ · 78 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$89 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Ghost Street is busiest on weekends and holidays; arrive early to avoid long waits at popular restaurants.
- Many restaurants display live seafood in tanks; feel free to choose your own crayfish or fish.
- Cash is still common at smaller stalls, though most restaurants accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay.
- Food is often spicy; request 'bu la' (not spicy) if you prefer milder flavors.
A bit of history
Ghost Street's name dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties when it was a market for funeral goods and paper offerings for the dead, earning it a ghostly reputation. It later evolved into a night market, with vendors selling food by candlelight, and has since become one of Beijing's most iconic food streets.
Common questions
Is Ghost Street open during the day?
Yes, but it's much quieter. Most restaurants open around 11 AM, but the street's lively atmosphere only kicks in after dark.
What is the most popular dish at Ghost Street?
Spicy crayfish (xiaolongxia) is the signature dish, often served in large portions and eaten with friends.
Is Ghost Street safe for tourists at night?
Yes, it's generally safe and well-lit with many people around. Just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Can I find vegetarian options on Ghost Street?
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and noodles. Look for places with English menus or ask for 'su shi' (vegetarian food).
How do I get to Ghost Street from Tiananmen Square?
Take Subway Line 1 from Tiananmen East to Dongdan, then transfer to Line 5 to Dongzhimen. The walk from Dongzhimen Station is about 10 minutes.
Are there English menus available?
Some popular restaurants have English menus or picture menus, but smaller stalls may not. It helps to have a translation app handy.
More attractions in Beijing
