Beijing, a city with a rich cultural tapestry and a burgeoning expat community, offers a plethora of markets that cater to all tastes and needs. From sprawling outdoor bazaars to quaint indoor havens, these markets are not just places to shop but are also cultural experiences in their own right. Whether you’re a digital nomad in search of unique trinkets, an expat looking for fresh produce, or simply someone who enjoys the thrill of bargaining, Beijing’s markets have something for everyone. Here are some of the best markets in Beijing that you should not miss.
Panjiayuan Antique Market
Location: No.18 Huawei Li, Chaoyang District
Type of Market: Antique and Flea Market
Open: Monday to Friday, 8:30-18:00; Saturday and Sunday, 4:30-18:00
Panjiayuan Antique Market is a treasure trove for collectors and history buffs. It is the largest antique market in China, offering a vast array of goods from ceramics and jade to old coins and cultural revolution memorabilia. The weekend is the best time to visit, as all stalls and shops are open and the market is bustling with activity.
We Recommend: Scour the stalls for some traditional Chinese calligraphy brushes or hand-painted scrolls, which make for excellent souvenirs or gifts.
Wangfujing Snack Street
Location: Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District
Type of Market: Food Market
Open: Daily, 9:30-22:00
Wangfujing Snack Street is a paradise for foodies, offering an array of exotic street food. This bustling market is a great place to sample traditional Chinese snacks and dishes, from tanghulu (candied fruit) to scorpion skewers for the more adventurous eaters.
We Recommend: Try the Peking duck wraps, a local delicacy that is both delicious and a quintessential Beijing experience.
798 Art Zone
Location: No.2 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District
Type of Market: Art and Craft Market
Open: Daily, 10:00-18:00
Once a military factory complex, the 798 Art Zone has been transformed into Beijing’s epicenter of contemporary art. The area is dotted with galleries, studios, and design shops. It’s not just a market but a cultural space where you can find unique art pieces, attend exhibitions, and even catch live performances.
We Recommend: Look for one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry or original artwork by up-and-coming Chinese artists.
Sanyuanli Market
Location: Shunyuan Street, Chaoyang District
Type of Market: Food Market
Open: Daily, 5:00-19:00
Sanyuanli Market is a must-visit for those who love to cook or enjoy fresh produce. It’s known for its wide selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. The market is popular among expats for its imported goods section, offering products that may be hard to find elsewhere in Beijing.
We Recommend: The market is renowned for its fresh seafood, so be sure to pick up some king crab or live shrimp to cook a gourmet meal at home.
Niujie Muslim Market
Location: Niujie Street, Xicheng District
Type of Market: Cultural and Food Market
Open: Daily, 10:00-19:00
Niujie Muslim Market is the heart of Beijing’s Muslim community, offering a variety of halal foods and products. The market is a vibrant place to explore, with vendors selling everything from spices and teas to traditional Muslim attire.
We Recommend: Sample some authentic halal snacks, such as lamb kebabs or freshly baked nang bread, which are both flavorful and filling.
Yashow Market
Location: Sanlitun, Chaoyang District
Type of Market: Clothing and Souvenir Market
Open: Daily, 10:00-21:00
Yashow Market is a popular destination for expats and tourists looking for clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. The market has a wide range of items, and bargaining is part of the experience. It’s an ideal place to find knock-off brands and tailor-made suits at reasonable prices.
We Recommend: Visit the tailor shops on the upper floors for custom-made clothing that’s tailored to your preferences and measurements.
Liulichang Culture Street
Location: Liulichang East Street, Xicheng District
Type of Market: Cultural and Antique Market
Open: Daily, 10:00-18:30
Liulichang Street is renowned for its ancient books, calligraphy, paintings, rubbings, ink stones, and carved seals. It’s a cultural market that takes you back in time with its traditional Chinese architecture and the smell of ink and paper.
We Recommend: Pick up an antique book or a set of Chinese painting supplies to start practicing the traditional art of Chinese brush painting.
Maliandao Tea Market
Location: Maliandao Road, Xicheng District
Type of Market: Tea Market
Open: Daily, 9:00-18:30
Maliandao Tea Market is the largest tea market in Beijing, with hundreds of shops selling thousands of varieties of tea from all over China. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or a curious novice, the market offers an educational experience where you can learn about the different types of tea and their brewing methods.
We Recommend: Attend a tea tasting session and consider purchasing some high-quality Pu’er or Oolong tea to enjoy back home.
