From Luxury Listings NYC: Historic hutong homes — traditional courtyard property lining narrow alleyways — are the hot (old) new thing in the Chinese real estate market. They provide a much-needed sanctuary in the middle of the bustling city of Beijing. Those seeking a more traditional living experience seem to prefer street-level homes to luxury high rises, so these properties tend to be particularly coveted by ex-pats or newcomers to the city. [more]

Source: Well-heeled ex-pats are buying up historic homes in Beijing