Bamboo Garden 竹园宾馆

A haven from Beijing's bustle, this traditional Chinese courtyard hotel near the Drum Tower has a rich past as the former home of a head eunuch of the Qing dynasty, a Republican era minister and Kang Sheng, one of the architects of the Cultural Revolution. The compound's pavilions, bamboo garden and red lacquered walkways further channel the spirit of "olde Cathay." Some rooms are far better appointed than others, so compare before pulling out your wallet. Offering views of the garden, the restaurant boldly claims to have the best gongbao jiding in town. RMB 520-1760.