Souvenirs
2 min readShopping in Beijing is tremendously rewarding. Visitors will find the best products that China has to offer in the capital’s stores while exploring a wide variety of interesting shopping venues like outdoor markets, small boutiques and luxury malls.
Prices in Beijing are generally very competitive, but that can depend on your bargaining skills. In places like department stores, prices are clearly marked and generally non-negotiable. Conversely, in markets, bazaars and shops where prices are not indicated, haggling is expected.
Potentially worse than paying too much is buying something thats’ mislabeled. Many of the pieces in markets like Liulichang and Panjiayuan are antique reproductions, not genuine antiques. A well-made antique reproduction can make lovely purchase, so long as you don’t pay an exorbitant sum to acquire it Bear in mind that genuine antiques should have a red seal at the bottom indicating that they’ re authentic and can be exported from China.
However, antiques dated before 1795 can’t leave the country. Goods made after 1949 aren’t considered antiques and won’t have a seal. Be sure to keep your receipts since you may have to show them when departing China.
Beijing’s contemporary art scene is among the most exciting in the world, and commands international attention. Fortunately, paintings and prints by Chinese artists are far more affordable in China than they are overseas. Moreover, they are among the most original purchases you can make in the city and, if history is any guide, their value can appreciate significantly.
Among Beijing’s best buys are art, are art, antique and reproductions, carpets, clothes handicrafts, jewelry, silk and tea. You can acquire these goods and more at the following locations, listed in alphabetical order. Please note that the prices quoted below may be subject to change.
Chaowai Furniture Warehouse Beijing zhaojia chaowdi gudian jiaju shichang An ex-pat favorite, Chaowai is a four-storey building crammed wall-to-wall with stalls selling furniture and decorative items like vases, statuettes (RMB 70 for a Buddha head) and bird cages (RMB 200 and up). Most of the pieces are reproductions, but they look great and are reasonably priced. If you buy something that’s too big to fit in your suitcase, the vendors can arrange to ship it home. One of the better-known firms that has a showroom in Chaowai is Wanyou . You can combine visits to Chaowai and nearby the Panjiayuan.
