Shopping in Beijing
Discover 44 markets, shops, and shopping spots in Beijing, China. From local markets to specialty stores — curated from real traveler tips.
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Panjiayuan
Also called the "dirt market" or the "weekend market," this is China's largest and possibly its most entertaining flea market. It operates from Sun-Sat, most people visit there on the weekend, and it is located near Pan Jia Yuan bridge, on the eastern third ring road. It begins early, around 07:00 in summer and 08:00 in winter (04:00 on the weekend). The flea market includes mostly fake antiques and large sections selling admittedly modern porcelain, jade, carved stone and wood, paintings, furniture, and other decorative items, used books, maps, and Cultural Revolution kitsch replicas. There are also sections selling Tibetan goods, although mostly of low quality, especially the paintings. Textiles made by members of minority nationalities from Yunnan and Guizhou provinces are amongst the more interesting buys at the moment. Well worth a visit, unless you are allergic to crowds. Remember to bargain, try offer 1/10 to 1/3 of the original price and be sure to shop around as many stalls have similar or identical goods. Panjiayuan's established dealers also provide shipping service for large items to main ports around the world.
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Hong Qiao (Pearl) Market
Not far from the Temple of Heaven. Worth visiting for the state-run silk market but more especially for the pearl market in the building opposite. The top two floors of this market are filled with jewelry, and this may be the best place in China to buy pearls, coral, turquoise, amber and other semi-precious stones. The top floor features high-end jewelry stores, but the floor below has small merchant stalls still selling good quality pearls and other beads. Lower floors have the usual purses, leather goods, clothing, handcrafts like chess sets or chopsticks, and electronics. The presence of a large number of stalls keeps the prices fairly keen, but shop around, keep a smile on your face and bargain hard. On weekdays, when customer traffic is low, be prepared to be yelled at, have a range of products shoved into your hands and face and be physically grabbed and pushed. Anything to get you to buy their merchandise
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Silk Street or the Silk Market
The original foreign-oriented market, in the first embassy district (now the CBD). It was re-opened in March 2005 as a 5 storey air-conditioned building. You can find luggage, leather bags, electronics, sporting goods, jewellery, clothing and Chinese artwork. This market caters almost entirely to foreign customers. However, compared to other Asian markets in, say, Hong Kong and Bangkok, this market may be overpriced. Counterfeit Polo Ralph Lauren golf shirts in Hong Kong are roughly 30HKD (US $4) while at the Silk Market, the general starting price is roughly US $50 and you would be lucky after lengthy bargaining to get the shirt for US $20. As another example of prices: bargaining for fake Diesel-brand jeans might start at ¥1200 and end up at ¥85. Shoes may not be worth buying here, as their soles are often uncomfortably thin. Tourists may want to consider spending their money elsewhere.
8 East Xiushui St., Jianguomenwai Dajie -
Wangfujing
Beijing's most famous shopping street, nowadays with mostly the same international brands and modern malls you will find anywhere else in the world. The street is pedestrianised for several blocks, making it pleasant to walk around. Several large malls in the area such as Oriental Plaza (see below) and Sun Dong An plaza. One useful shop is the Foreign Language Bookstore, at the northern end of the pedestrian area, which has a good selection of guidebooks and maps (although expensive). Wangfujing snack street (see also "Eat") in the alleys just to the east has vendors selling souvenirs and crafts. Bargain hard.
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Xizhimen
One of the most popular markets for locals is located in '''Xizhimen''', next to the zoo. To get there, in front of the zoo (Beijing Zoo stop on subway line 4) there is a new huge building, which is just another big market, but behind it, there is the wholesale market, with the best prices, and a lot of genuine goods (clothing). This market is much more local than others listed here, and is perhaps not ideal for the less adventurous traveler. There is also a similar market nearby in the pedestrian underpass under the parking lot at the Yushuguan Bridge with good bargaining possibilities.
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Zhongguancun
For the more technologically-oriented tourist, is a must. Located directly south from Peking University and Tsinghua University (and accessible from Line 4 on the subway), this area is dubbed the "Silicon Valley of China." There are a number of large electronics malls that sell everything from phones to computer parts. Pirated software and DVDs are also not hard to find here. Many of the shady characters outside the malls shouting 'DVD!' also sell pornography (illegal in China).The largest and most well-known malls include:
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Liulichang
There is no production here any more, but rather antique stores, selling Chinese painting, handicrafts, and used books. The area was popular back to the Tang dynasty, but the small shops were amalgamated into state-operated units during the 1950s. It was redeveloped as a tourist area after 1979, but has failed to regain its former popularity. Nevertheless, it is picturesque and you can still find interesting things here. In the Chinese New Year, there's a 15-day folk fair here. Not far from the Hepingmen Subway Station.
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Ladies' Street
A varied shopping area in the new embassy district. Nuren Jie itself has restaurants and shops/market selling womens' clothing (hence the name). There is also the Laitai Flower Market, which sells potted plants, planters, cut flowers, and above and below has art and home decorations. Similar small shops line the street opposite the flower market. Opposite Laitai is an area called "Super Bar Street" with bars and restaurants, and during the day also has a large indoor market with mostly electronics.
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Guwan Cheng
On the 3rd ring road, just beyond Panjiayuan. This four story white building houses the more upmarket variety of Chinese antiques, with prices to match. The management have been making determined efforts to stamp out fakes and low quality items in recent years and, to some extent, have succeeded. However, the rule that applies to all antique shopping in China still remains in force: buyer beware.
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Qianmen Dajie Pedestrian Street
Qianmen Dajie is one of Beijing's oldest commercial streets with a 500 year old history. Now, this street is under reconstruction to bring it back as it was in the 1920s. Furthermore, trolley cars will re-appear in the street, after being absent for 40 years. The status in March 2009 is that the street is open to the public, but only very few shops are established so far.
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The Malls at Oriental Plaza
At one time this was the largest mall in Asia. Modern shopping mall is expensive but provides you with a lot of buying opportunities from diamonds, to real (affordable) DVD's, (international) music CD's and food. You can find lots of brands in Oriental Plaza, from high-end to low. Besides shopping, you also can eat here, from Western cuisine to traditional Chinese food.
East of Tian'anmen Square, on Wangfujing -
The Place
This outdoor complex is most well-known for having one of the largest LED screens in the world, which simultaneously serves as a futuristic roof. Come here in the evening to see various sorts of animations being shown over the full length of the screen. The Place also has a number of shops and cafes and is adjacent to another complex housing a number of restaurants.
9 Guanghua Lu / 光华路9号 Website -
Dashilan
Dashilan (and surrounding streets) is a shopping area dating back to the Ming dynasty. The name means big fences, which in earlier times were in place in both ends of the street. Everything burned down during the boxer uprising in 1900, but the area has since been reestablished as a shopping area
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Grand Pacific
Has a good selection of less expensive brands and attracts primarily younger shoppers. The shopping mall appears bright and clean and it is usually not too crowded. Here you can find makeup, clothes and sports. Restaurants include Bread Talk, DQ, Pizza Hut and Sizzler.
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Friendship Store
A relic of communist China: where all foreigners used to have to shop. Prices are very high, and (not surprisingly) there's hardly anyone there. Come here to browse in peace and see what items and styles you like: then go to Silk market or Yashow to bargain for them.
CITIC building, Jianguomenwai Dajie -
Sunny Gold Street
A small two-storey market selling clothes, T-shirts, luggage, purses, wallets, some souvenirs etc. They have nothing you can't also buy at Yashow, but they are much smaller and calmer, so more relaxing. Convenient if you're staying at Lido hotel or in the area.
2 Fangyuan Xi Lu -
Joy City
This mall opende in 2008 is the largest in Xidan and you can find almost everything here including an enormous cosmetic shop. The building has an impressive glass facade and inside the feel is spacious despite the hords of locals browsing here.
130 Xidan North St (西单北大街130号; Xīdānběidàjiē) Website -
New Wudaokou Clothing Market
4-storey market packet with clothing, footwear and accessorizes, especially popular with students from nearby universities. A lot of Korean and Japanese style fashion. Staff is not pushing, drinks/snacks are available on the top floor.
2 Qinghua Donglu, Golden Tower, 清华东路2号 金码大厦 9AM-7PM -
Nanluoguxiang
This restored hutong, just east of Drum Tower and Houhai, is lined with boutiques and small shops. Not the place for bargains, but this is where to come for unique and distinct gifts including T-shirts, pottery, jewellery, etc.
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Chongwenmen Food Market
Traditional indoor food market with lots of small stalls with all kind of fresh food ingredients. This is the oldest remaining traditional food market in Beijing and worth a visit, also if you are not buying anything.
1 Chongwenmen Street (崇文门外大街1号; Chóngwénménwàidàjiē) 7:30AM-8:30PM Cheap -
Carrefour
Cheap French supermarket chain, selling everything from food, homeware, clothing to DVDs and electrical appliances. A bit pricier is their import section, offering food products from all over the world.
Zhongguancun Plaza, 中关村广场地 8AM-10:30PM -
Taikoo Li Sanlitun (The Village)
Modern, international mall opened in 2008, beside Yashow market. Many international brand names, including Apple, Adidas, Uniqlo. Also numerous cafes and restaurants, and a cinema in the basement.
Corner of Gongti Beilu and Sanlitun Lu -
Xidan Department Store
Government owned mall with a history of more than 70 years. It has been redecorated several times over the years but still appears a bit old fashioned. The prices are good though.
120 Xidan North St (西单北大街120号; Xīdānběidàjiē) -
Golden Resources Shopping Mall
The mall covers 680.000 square meters, and is the second largest in Asia. Multiple stories, snaking alleys, infinite shopping opportunities... you get the gist.
near Yuanda Bridge / Yuanda Road off the West Fourth Ring Road in Haidian District -
Liangma Flower Market
First floor is cut flowers, all inexpensive. Around the sides are potted plants, home decorations, lamps. Upstairs are dishes and kitchenware.
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Daoxiangcun
Famous shop established in 1895. Best known for its wide selection of southern style cakes. More than 20 branches around the city.
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Qianmen Carpet Co.
Claims to be the first established antique carpet dealer in China. Sells antique carpets as well as reproductions.
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Beijing Commodity Market
40,000 sqr meter large market offering a wide range of products including fashion, gifts, leather goods and toys.
259 Fuwai Rd M-F 7:30AM-5PM, Sa-Su 7:30AM-5:30PM -
Beijing Qianxiangyi Silk Store
Very large silk store established in 1840. Claims to be the biggest silk professional store in China.
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Tea Street
The street has 8 wholesale tea markets and more than 600 tea shops. Tea sets also for sale here.
Maliandao Chayecheng (马连道茶叶城; Mǎliándàocháyèchéng) 8:30AM - 6PM -
China World Trade Center
Here you will find a lot of expensive stores and some international convenience stores.
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NagQu
A small shop selling handcrafted bags, scarfs and pottery made with natural materials.
No.67 Wudaoying Hutong 东城区五道营胡同67号 -
Zhong You Department Store
Has a lot of fake brands (mostly clothes). Very affordable if you bargain hard.
176 Xidan North St -
Soshow
Entertainment Shopping Center for the young, rich and modern Beijingers.
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Hongqiao Wet Food Wholesale Market
Raw food whole sale market specialising in sea food but also with other.
Tiantan East Street (天坛东路; Tiāntándōnglù) 6:30AM-6:30PM -
Tongzhou Market
Outdoor morning market in the old part of Tongzhou. Mostly food.
West Meizi West Street (西梅子西街) -
Liubiju
Famous shop established in 1530. Sells pickled vegetables.
Zhubaoshi Street (珠宝市街; Zhūbǎoshìjiē) Website -
Beijing Language and Culture University Press Store
One of the best stores to buy language learning books.
Mo-Tu 9AM-5PM, Sa 9AM-4PM -
Beijing Capital Times Square
Shopping center focusing on international brands.
88 Xi Chang'an St (西长安街88号; Xīcháng'ānjiē) 9:30AM-9:30PM -
Sogo
Shopping mall with Japanese and European shops.
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New World Shopping Centre
Five storied shopping mall.
3 Chongwenmenwai Street (崇文门外大街3号; Chóngwénménwàidàjiē) Website -
Sihuan Mixed Goods Market
Raw food whole sale market.
Sihuan Hutong, Deshengmenne St (德胜门内大街四环胡同; Déshèngménnèi Dàjiē Sìhuán Hútòng) 7AM-7PM -
Tian Zhao Tian Market
Jewelery market.
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Wanda Plaza
Shopping mall.
Travel tips by Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA 3.0). Data may have changed — verify opening hours before visiting.
Shopping Guide for Beijing: Markets, Stores & Souvenirs
Shopping in Beijing is one of the best ways to experience the city's local culture beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you're browsing open-air markets for fresh produce and local delicacies, hunting for antiques in backstreet shops, or searching for artisan crafts and design goods to take home, Beijing's shopping scene has something for every kind of traveler and every budget.
This guide covers 44 shopping spots in Beijing sourced from Wikivoyage — the traveler-written travel guide — ensuring you're getting recommendations from real visitors who've been there. Unlike algorithmically ranked lists, these are the shops, markets, and stores that travelers actually tell each other about.
Types of Shopping in Beijing
Beijing's shopping landscape includes several distinct categories. Markets are the heart of local commerce — weekly or daily gatherings where you'll find fresh food, second-hand clothing, handmade goods, and antiques at prices far below tourist shops. Specialty stores in Beijing often have decades of history and deep expertise — bookshops, wine merchants, tea rooms, craft suppliers, and independent fashion boutiques. Souvenir and gift shops vary widely in quality: the best ones in Beijing sell locally made products, while others sell identical mass-produced goods found in every city. This guide steers you toward the former.
Shopping Tips for Travelers in Beijing
- Visit markets early. The best stalls at Beijing's markets fill up fast. Arrive in the first hour of opening for the widest selection and freshest goods, especially for food markets.
- Carry local currency. Many independent shops and market vendors in Beijing prefer cash. Have small denomination local currency on hand to avoid problems at card-only or cash-only stalls.
- Check opening days carefully. Many specialist shops in Beijing close on Sundays and some close on Mondays or Wednesday afternoons. Always verify hours before making a special trip.
- Ask about provenance. When buying what appears to be locally made or artisan goods in Beijing, don't hesitate to ask where items are made. Genuine local products make far better souvenirs than imported look-alikes.
- Budget for customs limits. If you're traveling internationally, keep in mind duty-free allowances for your home country, especially for food products, alcohol, and tobacco bought in Beijing.
- Bargaining culture varies. In some markets in Beijing light bargaining is expected; in most established shops, the price is fixed. Follow local cues — if other shoppers are negotiating, it's acceptable; if prices are clearly marked, they typically aren't.
Best Souvenirs to Buy in Beijing
The most meaningful souvenirs from Beijing are the ones that can't be bought elsewhere — locally produced food and drink, handmade objects by local artisans, books published in the city or about the region, and items that reflect the city's distinct cultural identity. Avoid mass-produced miniatures and branded merchandise that you'll find in identical form in every tourist shop. Instead, focus on the specialty stores and markets listed in this guide where authentic local products are the norm.
Shopping Neighborhoods in Beijing
Like most cities, Beijing's best independent shopping is concentrated in specific neighborhoods rather than spread evenly across the city. Historic city centers and old towns tend to have the highest density of specialty shops, antique dealers, and design boutiques. Residential neighborhoods often host the best local food markets and everyday shopping that tourists rarely discover. This guide's listings span the city so you can plan your shopping around whichever neighborhoods you're already visiting.
Meet Fellow Travelers While Exploring Beijing
Solo travel and group shopping are not mutually exclusive. Many Nomax users find travel companions for market days, afternoon shopping strolls, or finding someone who knows the city well enough to point you to the best local stores. Download Nomax to connect with other travelers currently in Beijing — whether you want a market guide, a fellow bargain hunter, or simply someone to share the discovery of a great find.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shopping in Beijing
Where to shop in Beijing?
Beijing has 44 curated shopping spots including markets, specialty stores, and local boutiques. This guide covers the best places to shop, from open-air markets with local produce and handmade goods to bookshops, antique dealers, and souvenir stores. Use the Nomax app to connect with fellow travelers who can share their favourite shopping finds in Beijing.
What souvenirs to buy in Beijing?
The best souvenirs from Beijing are those that reflect the city's culture and craftsmanship — local food specialties, artisan products, books about the city or region, handmade ceramics or textiles, and locally produced beverages. Markets are the best place to find authentic souvenirs at fair prices. Other travelers on Nomax often share tips on where to find genuinely local products versus tourist-trap shops.
Are there any markets in Beijing?
Yes, Beijing has several markets listed in this guide including weekly food markets, antique fairs, and craft markets. Markets are excellent for experiencing local daily life and finding unique items you won't find in chain stores. Opening days and hours vary — check individual listings for current schedules before visiting.
What are the best specialty shops in Beijing?
Beijing has a range of specialty shops covering books, design, fashion, food and drink, antiques, and local crafts. Many of the shops in this guide are independent stores with deep expertise in their niche — a far better experience than mall shopping. The listings here are sourced from traveler community knowledge, so they tend to be the kinds of places locals actually recommend.
How do I find shopping companions in Beijing?
Download Nomax to instantly connect with other travelers in Beijing. Whether you want a local recommendation, a shopping companion for a market day, or someone who knows where to find the best local products, Nomax lets you chat with and meet fellow travelers in the city. It's free and available on iOS and Android.
Is it safe to shop in Beijing as a solo traveler?
Shopping in Beijing is generally safe for solo travelers. At markets, keep an eye on your belongings and use a secure bag. For valuable purchases, ask for receipts and check the return policy. When browsing late-evening markets, stick to well-lit areas. Connect with other travelers on Nomax for up-to-date safety tips from people currently in Beijing.
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