The 700 year old watchtower of Deshengmen once protected triumphant emperors. Now the ancient city gate of Beijing presides over rush hour gridlock. But on September 9, a crowd of ‘old Beijing’ nostalgics and locals packed into the watchtower area, bringing with them a hint of the heydays of the tower. The picturesque area of narrow lanes and lakes in the north of the Forbidden City is now the hottest place in town, popular with locals and foreigners alike.

The club street in Shichahai has long been popular for its beautiful scenery and its many bars. But now that autumn is here, the opening of the sixth Shichahai International Tourism Festival is drawing even more visitors.

On the night of September 9, visitors joined in the countdown to the brilliant firework display that turned the lights on for this year's Shichahai Tourism Festival.

During the two－month festival, tourists will be encouraged to relax amidst the ancient area's natural charm -- exploring ancient temples and the famous homes, wandering the hutong, and enjoying special activities provided by the organizers.

(CCTV.com September 16, 2003)