The historic Miaoying Temple (or Baita Temple) in Beijing's Xicheng District, renowned for its ancient white pagoda, is experiencing a vibrant renaissance. Once a quiet, traditional neighborhood, it now buzzes with trendy cafes, stylish shops and lively eateries. Despite this modern surge, the area still harbors many long-standing residents and century-old shops, creating a unique blend of old and new that is transforming it into an emerging cultural hotspot. The manager at Jm Cafe shared that they serve nearly 100 cups a day, with numbers soaring to 300 to 400 on weekends and holidays. Many young visitors are drawn to the area's fresh vibe. Walking upstairs at Jm Cafe, it's easy to see why it's become a favorite hangout spot. The neighborhood's lively atmosphere extends beyond cafes, with a glimpse into its traditional charm. Deeper into the area, a more authentic, local scene unfolds. Master Gao's Grain and Oil Store, a humble shop, remains a staple for residents buying groceries such as rice, flour and cooking oil. Gao Jishun, the shop owner, said the shop has been here for 34 years, things have really improved over time, and that the environment is much better than it used to be. Nearby, a small stall named Bing Ge and Gao Jie is famous for its fried snacks that locals, especially seasoned Beijingers, can't get enough of. Chen Zhonglie, the owner, has been running the stall for over 30 years. Many returned customers couldn't stop praising the crispy and sweet meatballs. Meanwhile, for Tian Xinmiao, who has lived here her whole life, the neighborhood's vibrant transformation feels both refreshing and inspiring. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, it embodies a delicate balance, preserving its historic hutong charm while embracing modern vitality. It's a place where tradition and innovation coexist, making it a compelling symbol of Beijing's ongoing cultural renewal. Hutong is the name given to a narrow lane, alley, or small street between rows of single-storey courtyards dwelled by Beijingers in the past. Shotlist: Beijing, China - Recent: 1. Various of storefront, decorations of Jm Café; 2. Various of customers, shop assistant making coffee; 3. SOUNDBITE (Chinese, dubbed in English) Wang, customer (full name not given/starting with shot 2/ending with shots 4-6): "I've noticed that since the old area was renovated, there are now many coffee shops, including this café, which also offers attractive merchandise that really appeals to young people. The products are quite creative, and it's also a great place for taking photos."; 4. Photos on display; 5. Wang talking with reporter; 6. Various of shop assistant making coffee, cups; 7. Various of storefront of Laogao's Grain and Oil Store; 8. Various of reporter entering store, customers, grains, goods on shelves; 9. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Gao Jishun, shop owner (with reporter asking question/ending with shot 10): (Reporter: "How long have you had the store?") "We've been running it for 34 years. Things have really improved over time -- the surroundings are much better than they used to be."; 10. Various of Gao talking with reporter; 11. Various of residents queuing; 12. Shop sign; 13. Chen Zhonglie, store owner, frying meatballs; 14. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Chen Zhonglie, store owner (with reporter asking questions/partially overlaid with shot 15): (Reporter: "Mr. Bing Ge, what are you doing there?") "Frying meatballs." (Reporter: "How long have you been running this shop?") "Over 30 years now." [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 15. Chen frying meatballs [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 16. Residents queuing; 17. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) residents (with reporter asking questions/starting with shot 16): (Reporter: "There are quite a few places selling meatballs these days, what makes these so special?") "They're crispy and sweet, and really fresh." "Yeah, they're still crispy even the next day." (Reporter: "Do you come here often?") "Yeah, I do."; 18. White Pagoda; 19. SOUNDBITE (Chinese, dubbed in English) Tian Xinmiao, resident (starting with shot 18/ending with shot 20): "This area really showcases the hutong culture. And when you look at the food and drinks here, everything feels fresh and lively."; 20. Customers in bakery; 21. White Pagoda; 22. Visitors taking photos. [Restriction - No access Chinese mainland]