In winter, a season when most things lie dormant and the world is largely dominated by gray, if you’re looking to find some vibrant street scenes in Beijing, your best bets are the Forbidden City and 798. Strolling around the Forbidden City, compared to the bustling, noisy crowds inside, the area outside is unusually tranquil. No matter the season, you can feel the essence of Beijing here.
798 Wine Bottle Wall
There are still quite a few visitors at 798, but many shops are closed. Personally, I think 798 is the most "colorful" place in all of Beijing.