Seeing China

There are 4,500 youth hostels around the world, with many in China offering reasonably-priced accommodation and scenic locations. Some have been converted from heritage buildings and lots of these offer a special experience.

Historic Qixian (7 sages) Hostel in Xi'an

The square courtyard known as Siheyuan dates back about 3,000 years. The layout is meant to represent traditional Chinese morality and the concepts of the five elements. The Qixian (7 Sages) Youth Hostel in Xi'an is in a heritage building built about 100 years ago by a banker. Despite its older appearance, the hostel is replete with modern facilities.

Address: Courtyard 5, QixianZhuang 1 Beixin Street, Xi'an
E-mail: gaoming55514@yahoo.com.cn
Web site: www.yhachina.com/ls.php?hostID=1&id=94

Lakeside Mingtown Garden Youth Hostel in Hangzhou

Hangzhou is one of the most scenic places in China and the classic Mingtown Garden Youth Hostel at Yanggongdi offers a quiet haven by the West Lake.

Address: 4 Yanggongdi Zhaogongdi Road, Hangzhou
E-mail: mingtown@foxmail.com
Web site: www.yhachina.com/ls.php?hostID=1&id=35

Art LOFT Youth Hostel in Shenzhen

The Shenzhen LOFT Youth Hostel is 600 metres from OCT-LOFT. It looks nondescript from the outside but is full of life and culture like art exhibits and more. It is an oasis of creativity in fast-paced Shenzhen.

Address: 3 En Ping Street, Hua Qiao Cheng (Overseas Chinese Town), Shenzhen
E-mail: loftyha@yahoo.com.cn
Web site: www.yhachina.com/ls.php?hostID=1&id=63

Hostels for all ages

A common misconception is that hostels are just for young people. They are actually open to people of all ages as long as they are members. Youth hostels provide cheap accommodation for backpackers and take part in a range of charitable activities. The Hong Kong Youth Hostels Association will be holding the second Ngong Ping Charity Walk on January 20, 2008 to raise funds for the environment and cultural heritage preservation.