If you are tired of visiting the touristic hotspots and are in need of a spot of retail therapy, then skip the high end mega malls and head to one of the many markets for a real taste of local Beijing life.
Whether you are looking for souvenirs, clothes or glasses, Beijing has a market for you. Each one is filled with different curios from China's past and present.
Panjiayuan
Panjiayuan Antiques Market, also known as The Dirt Market, is Beijing's biggest and best-known arts, crafts and antiques market. It's a little bit out of the way from the city center but it is certainly worth the trip. It is the perfect place to test out your haggling skills, grab some souvenirs or simply mooch around on a Sunday afternoon.
The market is conveniently split into sections so whether you are after arts, jade or porcelain you won't find it hard to navigate the rows upon rows of market stalls. This place is best visited at the weekend when people flock here from all over China to show off their goods. Be sure to barter, as is customary here in China, and don't be afraid to test your skills. If you think the asking price is too high then simply walk away - if they want you to buy it they will happily lower the price.
Jinsong Glasses City
When traveling to Beijing you don't necessarily think "I need to put a new pair of glasses on my list of things to do."
But Jinsong Glasses City has floor upon floor of different glasses to try. I guarantee you'll find the perfect pair, for a fraction of the price you'd pay back home! It's just up the road from Panjiayuan so combine the two to make the most of your day. Head to shop D65 on the 4th floor for English speakers and great customer service. If you have your prescription then all the better, but if not they can test your eyes or use your existing glasses and the turnaround is also pretty quick with the entire process from bartering to manufacturing typically taking no more than 30 minutes.
Hongqiao (Pearl) Market
Next up is Hongqiao market, which is right beside the Temple Of Heaven and makes for the perfect location to spend a hot or cold afternoon after some sight-seeing. Hongqiao market is also nicknamed the pearl market and as you guessed it, its main shopping draw is of course pearls, although it also sells many more goods besides. You can find clothes, electronics, and. accessories - and with thousands of vendors to choose from you’ll definitely find something that you want, but may not need. Remember, bartering is expected if you want to grab yourself a bargain.
Laitai Flower Market
If you are after something a bit different then take a relaxing stroll around the Laitai flower market. The size and scale of this market and the array of different flowers and colours makes it a delight for all the senses. Head here before hitting the nearby food market to grab the essentials to cook a delicious meal.
Sanyuanli Food Market
If you are living in Beijing or you are staying somewhere with cooking facilities, then the best place to get your groceries is Sanyuanli market. This excellent market is where many restaurants and international stores buy their produce at wholesale prices. The foodstuffs on sale here are amazing and can be hard to find in other places. It is a popular place among locals, chefs and foreigners alike. Prices can vary, but it is worth it for some home comforts.
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My market ‘must haves’
