With the country’s COVID-19 prevention and control policy further optimized and the infected people recovering, Beijing becomes a hive of activity again. The number of passengers taking public transportation is steadily growing. Shops, restaurants, and entertaining venues are also opening to the public. The hustle and bustle in the streets of Beijing has started to appear and the festive atmospheres have been fired up as the quiet city has finally returned to the vibrancy we were once used to. Through the camera lenses, we can see the vitality of a city that is in recovery. The bustle and harmony are giving great confidence and hope to everybody. 

After the COVID-19 policy was adjusted, the number of visitors to Beijing’s landmark Qianmen Street has climbed significantly. In front of the Zhengyangmen, a tour guide is retelling the stories of its past and present to a tour group. 

On a sunny day, a family is taking their baby out for fresh air in the Malls at Oriental Plaza. 

Visitors throng the business street Dashilan as shops attract customers with alluring discounts. 

A child is attracted by a set of “Harry Potter” LEGO toys at a LEGO store in Xidan. 

A boy is playing “rock paper scissors” with one of his families while waiting for their orders outside a crowded Heytea store in Beijing. 

 Even the cold weather can’t stop foodies’ enthusiasm. A long queue is seen at the traditional Beijing noodles restaurant No. 69 Fangzhuanchang Zhajiangmian which is recommended by the Michelin Guide. Customers can enjoy a wide selection of Beijing cuisine at this restaurant. 

Several young players are enjoying and trying out the latest e-games at a SONY store in Wangfujing. 

A guide dog is quietly waiting for his master under a table at an Apple Store in Xidan. 

The number of visitors to the Wangfujing Pedestrian Street has risen sharply as the previous hustle and bustle returns. 

A family is enjoying a meal of hotpot at a Haidilao restaurant in Xidan. December 30th is also the 8th day of the last lunar month (called “laba” in Chinese -- “la” meaning the 12th lunar month and “ba” meaning eight). The restaurant also offers a hot serving of Laba congee to each customer. 

The famous U.K. toy brand Hamleys’ store in Wangfujing has become a true paradise for children. They can enjoy a comprehensive experience of shopping and entertainment by selecting various toys and riding the merry-go-round. 

The doll marking the 15th anniversary of Mountain Toys in front of the Xidan Joy City has attracted many people to stop and take photos in front of it. 

Be it quaint hutongs or modern tall buildings, they all demonstrate the vitality once seen throughout the city. Beijing embraces the sunrise of a new year with full vigor. [Photos by Yu Xiangjun]