When you realise that Silk Market, Yashow Market and HongQiao Market all have the same supplies, it's time to try out the locals' own shopping districts. This is where the inhabitants of Beijing gather to pick up their gear.
In the northern parts of the "Xidan Beidajie" street there are lots of small shops. The area also has several markets and malls. We know from experience that it's very possible to spend whole days here and still have ground left to cover. Start by visiting the Xidan Outdoor Market, which actually is largely indoors. The prices here can be very low and the supply of clothes and accessories is not too bad either. Then visit one of the larger markets east or north of this area and remember to always bargain, on Outdoor Market too.
If you are looking for more exclusive shopping, a good choice is Grand Pacific, located west of Xidan Beidajie.
Some salespeople know a few relevant phrases in English, but most of them don't.
Some of the markets can be very crowded on evenings and weekends.
Shopping in Beijing
(Text updated: 2008-02-04)
[2010-02-16] Niamh wrote...
Hi, I'll be flying to Beijing in August for 4 months. I am female, 1.67m tall and a UK size 16. Will I be able to find any clothes big enough to fit me at the market?
[2010-02-16] Daniela answered...
Hi Niamh, Xidan is not the best place to shop for us that are larger than an average Chinese girl. You can go there and see but it will be easier to find something at Silk Street or Yashow. Good luck!
[2010-02-13] anni wrote...
it can be very hard to get a taxi in the afternoon!!!!
[2010-02-09] frank seixas wrote...
Hello There,
What is the best mall to buy clothes? The real deal? for man.
[2009-04-09] Tamina wrote...
Hi i intend to visit beijing soon please inform me the prices of kids clothes for age 5 and 8
[2009-04-10] Irene answered...
Hi Tamina. It all depends on what clothes you want. Prices range from 10 yuan for small shirts to 200-300 for real brand name clothing. If you are looking for cheap children clothes i am sure you will have no problem finding it here in Xidan, just stay away from exclusive malls like Grand Pacific
西城区横二条59号(西单明珠商城)
(Xidan Bright Pearl Market)
Hengertiao 59
Xicheng district
Most stores and malls are open around 9am - 9pm.
Nearest station: Xidan
5 minutes walk to Xidan Area.
Lat. 39.9095°
Long. 116.3679°
[2010-03-06] Colette wrote...
We leave for Beijing in 2weeks and my girlfriends want me to bring back Coach/Guess purses & designer sunglasses and my male friends want Tommy Bahamas shirts - which market is my best choice for quality knock-offs and how much should I expect to pay? I only have 1 shopping day!
[2010-03-07] Karen answered...
I would suggest Silk market or Yashow market. Both are good at knock-offs but be aware of the sales ladies, they can be really pushy and irritating. Start your haggling at about one tenth of what they ask for. Good luck!
Yes, this is an interesting comment.