Shopping in Beijing: What to Buy and Where to Shop

Shopping in Beijing offers both an exciting mix of ancient tradition and modernity, and where you choose to stay will greatly influence your shopping experience. Let me share some insights from my own trips, blending practical tips on where to shop with recommendations for well-located accommodation that puts you right at the heart of the action.

Top Shopping Areas

Starting with Wangfujing Street, this iconic pedestrian thoroughfare is a must-visit. Think Oxford Street energy but with a distinctly Chinese twist – gleaming malls like APM and Oriental Plaza sit alongside century-old tea shops, and the infamous snack street beckons with its skewered scorpions and candied hawthorns. If you’re staying in the Dongcheng District, you’ll find several hotels just a stone’s throw from Wangfujing, such as the Peninsula Beijing or the Grand Hotel Beijing. Not only do these offer luxurious comfort, but they also put you within walking distance of the Forbidden City, allowing you to easily combine sightseeing with shopping.

A short stroll south leads you to Qianmen Street, where history seeps through the cobblestones. This restored Ming-era street is lined with traditional pijiu (beer) houses, tea merchants, and shops selling embroidered silk slippers – perfect for unique souvenirs. For a stay that echoes this old-world charm, consider hotels near Dashilan, a historic hutong area just off Qianmen. The NUO Hotel Beijing, for instance, blends Art Deco elegance with views of the ancient city walls, offering a serene retreat after a day of exploring.

No shopping trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to the Silk Market (Xiushui Street), a paradise for tailored suits, silk scarves, and “negotiation enthusiasts”. Haggling here is practically an Olympic sport, so channel your inner wheeler-dealer. If you’re planning multiple visits – and you likely will – opt for a hotel near the China World Trade Centre in Chaoyang District. The China World Summit Wing offers sleek rooms and direct access to the market via the metro, sparing you the hassle of navigating Beijing’s traffic.

For something quirkier, Panjiayuan Antique Market – nicknamed the “Ghost Market” – is a treasure trove of calligraphy scrolls, jade carvings, and Mao-era memorabilia. Early birds arrive at dawn to hunt for bargains, though authenticity can be hit-or-miss. Stay in the Panjiayuan area itself or near the Temple of Heaven, where hotels like the Fairmont Beijing provide a tranquil base. Waking up to views of the temple’s cobalt-tiled rooftops adds a touch of magic to mornings spent bargaining for Qing dynasty replicas.

Finally, Sanlitun Taikoo Li caters to the fashion-forward crowd, with its mix of global brands, indie designers, and buzzing rooftop bars. This is where Beijing’s hipsters sip flat whites and browse avant-garde boutiques. Hotels here, such as The Opposite House, mirror the area’s cosmopolitan vibe, offering minimalist design and proximity to the Workers’ Stadium nightlife. If you’re after late-night dumplings or craft cocktails post-shopping spree, this is the spot.

A word on logistics: while taxis are plentiful, the metro remains the quickest way to hop between shopping districts. Staying near major stations like Dongdan (serving Wangfujing) or Tuanjiehu (for Sanlitun) saves time. And don’t overpack – leave room in your suitcase for silk qipaos, porcelain tea sets, and that questionable “Ming vase” you couldn’t resist at Panjiayuan.

What to Buy in Beijing

Payment Tips

• Cash (RMB): Essential for markets and small vendors. Exchange GBP to RMB before arriving (airport rates are poor).
• Credit Cards: Accepted in malls/department stores (Visa/Mastercard). Inform your UK bank of travel plans to avoid blocks.
• Mobile Payments: Alipay/WeChat Pay dominate, but require a Chinese bank account. Stick to cash/cards.

Bargaining Basics

1. Research and Preparation:
2. • Know the Market: Understand the typical price range for the items you’re interested in. This can be done by visiting multiple stalls or asking locals.
   • Set a Budget: Decide beforehand how much you’re willing to spend.
2. Initial Offer:
3. • Start Low: Begin with 30–50% of the initial asking price. This gives you room to negotiate upwards.
   • Be Polite: Always maintain a friendly demeanor. A smile can go a long way in negotiations.
3. Negotiation Tactics:
4. • Stay Firm: Be confident in your offers and don’t be afraid to stand your ground.
   • Walk Away: If the price doesn’t meet your expectations, be prepared to walk away. This often prompts sellers to reconsider their price.
4. Understanding Fixed Prices:
5. • Malls and Boutiques: These places typically have fixed prices, and bargaining is not customary. However, you can look for sales or discounts.

Language & Communication

• Translation Apps: Download apps like Google Translate or Pleco for offline use, especially if you’re in a non-English speaking country.
• Learn Key Phrases:
• • Basic Phrases: Familiarize yourself with essential phrases such as:
  • “多少钱?” (Duōshǎo qián? – How much?)
  • “太贵了!” (Tài guì le! – Too expensive!)
  • “可以便宜一点吗?” (Kěyǐ piányí yīdiǎn ma? – Can it be cheaper?)
  • “我再考虑一下。” (Wǒ zài kǎolǜ yīxià. – I’ll think about it.)
• Non-Verbal Communication:
• Body Language: Use gestures and facial expressions to convey your interest or disinterest.
• Show Willingness to Leave: Sometimes, just the act of turning away can prompt a better offer.

Enjoy your shopping adventure – Good luck! 🛍️