Businesswoman spreads local culture in courtyard

The hotel has been converted from a traditional Beijing courtyard house into a hotel. It has only four rooms measuring between 50 and 115 square meters, it can only accommodate up to eight adult guests at the same time.

In the courtyard, there are two large ceramic goldfish ponds decorated in the lustrous blue glaze style of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). In one of the hotel rooms, a beautiful antique carpet imported from Nepal around 150 years old adorns the floor.

Hotel guests can sit at a table made from a precious wood dating back to the Qing Dynasty. These objects are not just decorative or historical relics put on display. People can actually use them.

"I hope people from both overseas and other parts of China, can feel the taste of the city of Beijing in this place," Li said. "I really love Beijing. It's both ancient and modern, quiet and vibrant, noble and local."

By feeling the ancient atmosphere of Beijing, people can also try the modern French cuisine.

"The hotel is much like me－a mixture of Chinese and western cultures. But all in all, the pursuit of beauty is something we all have in common."

For this National Day holiday, Li has prepared something special for her guests.

Since the hotel is located at the center of downtown Beijing, guests of the hotel can go to Tian'anmen square, the Forbidden City and Beihai Park on foot or by cycling.

"I hope to spend some time together with my guests in my hotel lobby where there is great natural sunshine and comfortable sofa," Li said. "There will be great afternoon tea for them to enjoy after they come back from flag-raising ceremony on the National Day."

Li said autumn is the best season during the year for Beijing and she is happy to put her enthusiasm into her job.