Shopping in Beijing
The Pearl Market, Silk Street, Panjiayuan antiques and Sanlitun malls β where to haggle, what to buy, and how low to go.
The big markets
Beijing's markets are legendary β and each has its specialty.
Pearl Market (Hongqiao)
Near the Temple of Heaven. Pearls (real and faux), electronics, souvenirs and silk. Bargain hard β opening prices are 3β5Γ the real value.
Silk Street (Xiushui)
The tourist market for silk, cashmere, tailor-made clothing and knock-off bags. Quality varies; haggle to 30% of the asking price.
Panjiayuan Antique Market
Beijing's weekend flea market β antiques, jade, calligraphy, Mao-era memorabilia and crafts. Saturday and Sunday mornings are best.
Malls & modern shopping
Sanlitun Taikoo Li, SKP and Wangfujing Street are the modern retail hubs β international brands, fixed prices, no haggling.
Bargaining rules
At markets, start at 40% of the asking price and meet around 60%. Walk away β the price often drops. Malls and chain stores have fixed prices.
Locals' Tip
Panjiayuan Antique Market is best Saturday morning β dealers set up early and the real finds sell by 10am.