8 Best Markets in Beijing

There are various large, small, and modern shops in Beijing, but if you are looking for a large modern market, here are the eight best markets you should visit. 

One of the great things about China is that there are numerous shopping malls. If you want to do some shopping around Beijing, it is important to determine what things you want to buy, as most markets in Beijing are likely to specialize in a certain category of products. 

But unfortunately, China has proclaimed to move all wholesale markets from Beijing. The purpose of this move is to improve traffic, reduce the population, and make life better and easy.

In this post, I will provide you the most up-to-date guide for Beijing markets. All these markets are best for shopping. You can easily find them on Google map. I have listed all markets that are still open, and also included a list of those that have been move or closed.

Panjiayuan Beijing Antiques Market

The Panjiayuan Beijing Antiques Market (潘家园) is a treasure trove of old items like vases and furniture. If you are an expert in Chinese antiques, you will surely get some rare items here. 

It is fun to walk through the Chinese Antique Market. You will see many old paintings, stone carvings, wood carvings, and embroidery that fill many halls. Here you can find several jewels and crafts from one of the fifty-six familiar cultural minorities. 

Alike in most other markets, it is not guaranteed that the items are authentic antiques. If you can identify the real you can find the nice older items for your home.

Beijing Zhongguancun Mall (Electronics)

Zhongguancun (中关村) is a large market related to electronics. There are many stores and malls where you can buy a computer, tablets, cameras, phones, computer parts, and electric accessories. There you will find a lot of electronics brands.

The store layouts can be a little mystifying. In lower stages, you will see more tourists and loudmouthed salespeople, while higher levels are better for searching and easy shopping.  

Be alert, as there are many fake products in this market. If you want to buy a real deal, you should go to some official brand store, like the Apple store. Before purchasing an item makes sure that it is original.

Sanyuanli Market (Non-Chinese Products and Goods)

The Sanyuanli Market (三源里市场) is famous for non-Chinese products. Here you can find the items that are not available in Chinese stores. This is the market of Western herbs, vegetables, and fruits. Here you can easily find basil and other Western food ingredients that are hard to find in local stores. 

In this market, some sellers can speak English. So it is helpful for foreigners to communicate with sellers. Chefs of high-end restaurants also come here to buy Western ingredients. 

The Sanyuanli market also has fresh meat and some western dairy products like cheese and cream. Here you can also find the baking ware, coffee makers, and other Western kitchen items.  

Old Pipe Street Hutong Market (Arts and Crafts)

The Old Pipe Street Hutong market also is known as Yandai Xiejie (烟袋斜街) is located north of Forbidden City. This market is famous for arts and crafts goods. It is also a fun place to enjoy older hutongs sights. Here you can enjoy local coffee sitting in an old hutong. 

Wangfujing Street Market (Foreign Brands Shopping)

Wangfujing Street Market (王府井) is a very famous place for both Chinese and foreign visitors. This street is often filled with people. Every evening people visit there for shopping, eating, and having fun. 

In this street market, you can find numerous foreign brands as well as some high-end restaurants. Most superbly, at the end of the street, you will find the “Wangfujing Snack Street”, where you can eat boiled eggs, fried bugs, and famous street snacks.

Keep in mind that Wangfujing is a high-end shopping place, so things can be expensive. 

Dongjiao Wholesale Market (Kitchen Equipment)

The New Dongjiao wholesale market is famous for kitchen stuff. In this market, you will find all types of kitchen equipment such as streamers, clay rice pots, woks, and knives. Here you can find all size kitchen tools not only for your home but also for your restaurant. 

Now the market has relocated outside the city, so it may be a little difficult for most people to go there. However, it is a great wholesale market with quality items. 

In addition to the kitchen equipment, this market has fresh fish, meat, and everything that is locally available in China markets. In this market, shops are lined in streets and have all kinds of household items. 

Nanluoguxiang Market Street (Tourist Trinkets)

Nanluoguxiang Market Street (南锣鼓巷) is the best place for tourist trinkets. There are many shops, cafes, and restaurants. So it is also a great place to eat and drink. 

This market is always rushed with people. The sellers are not very pushy as the other markets. You can go there and buy things before moving out of Beijing.

Sanlitun Village Shopping (Modern Fashion)

Sanlitun (三里屯) is a place famous for modern and stylish clothing brands. Here you can find many clothing brands, bookstores, and famous food restaurants. The official Apple store is also located here.

Just like the Wangfujing street market, the prices can be higher and you can’t bargain on prices. This seems like an outdoor shopping mall that you can find in Western countries. Here you will see many foreign travelers. 

Beijing Markets that have been moved or closed

As I mentioned above, Beijing has announced to relocate many wholesale markets out of the city. Here is the list of some big markets that have been moved or closed. 

Zoo Market Dongwuyuan: In March 2018, this market was moved to the Hebei province.

Laitai Beijing Flower Market: This market was closed indeterminately in April 2019.

Beijing Wangtong Market: In August of 2017, the market was lastingly closed.

Alient Street Market Beijing: It was closed in February 2017.

Tianyi Market: This market was closed in September 2017.

Unluckily, there will probably many more to be added to this list as time goes on.

Final Thoughts 

I hope this post will able you to find the goods you required. Passing through the Beijing markets will able you to explore the Chinese culture, local items, and enjoy a peaceful experience. I am sure that these eight markets will provide you the best shopping experience in Beijing.