Their siheyuans were far smaller in scale and simpler in design and decoration, and the hutongs were narrower.

In Beijing, hutongs are alleys formed by lines of siheyuans, the traditional courtyard residences.

Nearly all siheyuans had their main buildings and gates facing south for better lighting, so a majority of hutongs run from east to west.

The large siheyuans of these high-ranking officials and wealthy merchants often featured beautifully carved and painted roof beams and pillars and carefully landscaped gardens.