一条斜街在水岸

Core Points - The article discusses the historical significance and evolution of the ancient street "Baimixiejie" in Beijing, highlighting its origins and transformations over time [1][3][5]. Historical Background - Baimixiejie, a street included in Beijing's traditional place name protection list, has three theories regarding its name origin: it may derive from a temple called "Baimisi," from its historical role as a rice storage area, or from a phonetic misinterpretation of "hundred meters" due to its length of 353 meters [1][3]. - The street evolved from a busy granary and dock area during the Yuan Dynasty, where rice was transported via boats, leading to a thriving commercial environment with various businesses catering to the trade [3][5]. Notable Locations - The street features significant historical sites, including the former residence of Zhang Zhidong, a prominent figure in the late Qing Dynasty, located at No. 11 Baimixiejie, which is now a protected cultural relic [4][6]. - Another notable residence is that of Wenxiu, the last empress, who lived at No. 23 Baimixiejie, reflecting a contrasting narrative of her life after her marriage to Puyi [10][11]. Cultural Significance - Baimixiejie is characterized by its literary and culinary atmosphere, with notable figures such as philosopher Feng Youlan residing there, contributing to its scholarly reputation [5][8]. - The street also hosts famous dining establishments, such as "Huixiantang," which was a popular gathering place for officials and intellectuals [5][6]. Architectural Features - Zhang Zhidong's residence is described as a typical courtyard house with a combination of traditional Chinese and Western architectural elements, including a garden and a scenic view of Shichahai [7][8]. - The residence's layout and features reflect the lifestyle and status of its inhabitants during the late Qing period [7][8].