By Ye Jun (Beijing Weekend)
Updated: 2006-08-08 09:40

If you are walking along the south bank of Houhai and want to rest or find a quiet place for a good chat with a friend, the Cha Jiafu Teahouse is an excellent option. The teahouse is a converted pavilion and is still mistaken as one. Many locals still assemble outside the building to play chess.

The teahouse has a small outdoor area, which offers good views of life passing by. Inside, the area is arranged in traditional Chinese style and includes an interesting antique collection. There is a broken stone tablet with an inscription on it, an old pipa (plucked string instrument) on the wall and small pieces of jadeware decorating a Chinese screen.

The most common Chinese teas are offered and prices start at 38 yuan (US$4.75) per person. At that price you also get a tray of traditional dim sum. There is one refill included in this price. Order any tea that is more than 68 yuan (US$8.5), and you will be treated to a tea ceremony performance. If you haven't watched this before, it is well worth trying. There is no time limit in the teahouse, except in one serene private room in a corner.

Cha Jiafu Teahouse
Location: South Bank of Houhai, Deshengmennei Dajie
Opening time: 10am-midnight
Tel: 010-66166343