Special report: 2008 Olympic Games

The newly renovated historical commercial area, Qianmen Street is a must for visitors' sightseeing.(CCTV Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Aug. 2 -- Olympic spectators in Beijing will likely spend some time sightseeing. The newly renovated historical commercial area, Qianmen Street, is a must. The street has a history that goes back a long time.

    The Wupailou gate is the entrance to Qianmen street and foretells its traditional flavor.

    Qianmen Street lies on Beijing's historical central axis just south of Tian'anmen Square and the Forbidden City. It took shape about 570 years ago and reached its peak in the 1920s and 30s, with restaurants, theaters, silk stores and tea houses.

    A tramway was also restored after it being discontinued in the 1960s, adding a sense of modernness to the ancient shopping street. But the tram won't be operational during the Olympics, since marathon runners will pass along the street.

    Next Thursday, the oldest commercial area of the city will be opened to the public. A dozen local brand-names originating from Qianmen in the past century, such as the Quanjude roast duck restaurant and the Zhangyiyuan tea house, will also open new outlets the same day.

(Source: CCTV.com)