Yannan Canteen then (left) and now

Peking University, June 1, 2023: After nearly a year of renovation, Yannan Canteen (Yannan) has re-opened on June 1, 2023. 

Before, dining in Yannan proved to be rather unique: the canteen would be swarmed during peak hours, so many students and teachers ate standing in the canteen or at the outdoor stone tables. This made for unforgettable dining experiences that became Yannan’s trademark. 
 

What does the newly renovated Yannan Iook like now? To solve the problem of limited dining space, the “central island” on the first floor has been reconstructed into a dining area, such that the first floor accommodates 96 seats instead of 42. The dining area on the second floor has an additional 46 seats, and the basement now hosts 132 seats.

Old Yannan with a “central island” that sold food on the first floor

 

New Yannan with increased seats

Yannan Canteen also lets in natural lighting by combining side lighting and top lighting. Combined with shading facilities, the canteen creates a pleasant dining atmosphere. Other facilities and designs, such as a conveyor belt for tray disposals, different seating arrangements, and cushioned seats, also add to the comfort.     


 

Different seating arrangements in Yannan

Built in 1978, Xuesi Canteen was the predecessor of Yannan. In 2000, after a complete renovation, Yannan Canteen was born, and has since become the mainstay of PKUers’ youths. According to the former manager of Yannan, Yannan aims to provide PKUers from all around the globe with a taste of home.

Xuesi Canteen’s large dining hall

Old Yannan during peak hours

Students also expressed their longing for Yannan. "I first stepped foot into Yannan in 2021, and it was the first time that I had a dish that suited me so much! That moment was wonderful. Studying alone in PKU, I finally found something that reminded me of home," said Du Yongxi from the Department of Information Management.

We look forward to PKUers making more memories with Yannan Canteen! 


Written by: Zou Xueyang
Edited by: Li Wanqi
Sources: PKU Official WeChat