Through the Lens: China’s Back Roads, Byways and Alleys

A Photo Essay

Story and Photos by John Penisten

Beijing temple along the backroads.

With the post-pandemic reopening of China to visitors in the past year, this may be a good time to take in the renowned attractions of the ancient kingdom before visitor arrivals increase dramatically.

Flute peddler demonstrating his skills.

While the attractions like the Great Wall, Xian’s terra cotta soldiers, Beijing’s Forbidden City, and many others beckon visitors, it is perhaps the common people that are a main attraction and best represent today’s China.

Dumpling maker street vendor.

With a burgeoning economy, highrise buildings seemingly everywhere, and a modern transportation system with trains, planes, and cars galore, China’s people still cling to a traditional Oriental past. And while there have been geopolitical controversies and challenges in recent years, China’s strength lies in its people who adhere to traditional lifestyles and a culture that has remained intact for centuries. The new China and old China seem to co-exist side by side in the daily lives of its people.

Back road beer delivery.

And perhaps the best way to experience China and get a closeup look at its people is to walk, stroll and meander through its back roads, byways and alleys, visit their shops and neighborhoods, and sample their traditional cuisine. Then you can say you have been to China.

Crowded back road shopping street with shops on both sides.

There are some pandemic restrictions still in place and China does has varied entry requirements for foreign visitors. So you need to check on visa requirements and other restrictions before planning a trip. A good source of current information and advisories for travelers to China is the U.S. Department of State travel website: https://travel.state.gov/

An orange peddler working the back roads and alleys.

The following are a few glimpses of China’s people as they go about their daily activities along the back roads, byways and alleys from Beijing to Shanghai and places inbetween.

Soda delivery on the way.

Street treats food vendor.

Herbal medicine merchant street vendor.

Back alley beer break.

Neighbors gather to chat at the local store.

Neighborhood back road bakery.

Back road bakery goodies look inviting.

Back alley snack time for the youngster.

Official back road greeter.

Baby riding the dragon.

Back alley offers varied services.

Neighbors enjoy a back alley Chinese checkers game.

Recycler picks up the day’s load.

Street vendor’s grilled seafood sticks to go.

Varied snack foods are featured at back road vendor booths.

Busy Beijing businessman on the road.

Young boy playing along the back road.

Temple guardian deity along the back roads.

About the Writer

John Penisten is a photojournalist and longtime resident of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai’i. He has authored the guidebooks Hawai’i the Big Island, Kaua’i the Garden Island, Adventure Guide to Hawai’i, and Experience the Big Island: The Road to Adventure. His personal adventure book Green Hills and Blue Lagoons: A Peace Corps Memoir, covers his travels and adventures as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer in the Fiji Islands, South Pacific. His travel stories and photos have appeared in a variety of print and online publications.