Beijing Shopping Tips

Beijing is not only the No.1 tourist destination in China but also a true shopper's paradise. As the capital of China, Beijing has been a center for commerce for centuries. Shopping in Beijing is different from shopping in Hong Kong or New York, since not only famous brand name fashions are available, but also many local products from around China that cannot be found anywhere else. There are many unique shops in Beijing that have been in operation for centuries and still offer the same high-quality products that they have always offered. Beijing is full of areas that sell wonderfully unique oriental items. Things like Peking (Beijing) Opera masks, handmade toys, Shadow Puppets, and traditional clothing are all available on your Beijing tours.

Besides the famous Wangfujing Street, Xiushui Street, and Panjiayuan Antique Market, you can also find some interesting places to shop.

Nanluoguxiang (South Gong and Drum Lane):

Visiting Nanluoguxiang Lane is a unique experience. Many of the street shop owners are local designers and artists. Here visitors can purchase handmade pottery, have paper cuts made to order, and purchase custom-tailored clothing. The lane has numerous cafes and the atmosphere here is one of creativity.

Liulichang Street (Glass Street):
Named for the colored glazed tile factories that were located along the street, Liulichang Street became a commercial area at the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. This street offers wonderful mementos of a trip to China. The street features shops that sell calligraphy and art, jewelry, traditional hand-painted fans, Chinese ornaments, and antiques both real and artificial. Many of the shops are built in the style of the Qing Dynasty.

Maliandao Tea Street:
For anyone interested in Chinese tea, Maliandao Tea Street is an absolute must. It is the largest tea market in Beijing and offers visitors some of the finest teas from throughout China. Shops offer everything from tea to exquisite items used in the making and enjoyment of tea. Shop owners are happy to give visitors a sample of different kinds of tea and demonstrate how it is brewed.

Dashilan Street:
Famous for its ancient architecture, Dashilan Street is home to many of China's oldest brands. Many of them date from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Tongrentang Drugstore was founded by Emperor Kangxi's Imperial Doctor at the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. Its doctors still create prescriptions the way they did hundreds of years ago. The Ruifuxiang shop has been selling silk and fabric for over a hundred years.

Contact us for a tailor-made China tour!