Beijing’s markets are globally acknowledged as premier shopping destinations selling a diverse range of products often at exceptional value. To get the best price possible on your goods however you must be prepared to barter like your life depends on it. It can often take up to an hour of constant bartering to successfully strike a deal with the seller. The key is to be realistic with your offer but don’t be afraid to walk away if you think the price is too high. Most traders will be reluctant to let you take your custom elsewhere, use this to your advantage, price around. Listed below are some Beijing haunts well worth a visit. Good luck.

1. Xiushui Silk Market

The Xiushui silk market, as the name suggests, is famous for silk but sells everything else under the sun as well. Bargaining is essential here as you may end up paying ten times more than the item is worth. Take exit A at Yongani underground station for this iconic shoppers paradise.

2. Hongqiao Pearl Market

They say diamonds are a girls best friend but in my experience pearls rank pretty highly as well, for elegant pieces at realistic prices visit Hongqiao Pearl Market. In addition to pearls there is a huge range of handbags, watches and fake brand clothing available on several floors. Drop into the Temple of Heaven located nearby to make a day of it. Nearest underground station: Tiantan Dongmen Station.

3. Sanlitun Yashou Market

Five floors brimming with cheap garments Sanlitun Yashou Market is popular with international visitors however locals are thought to dislike this particular outlet claiming that goods are overpriced compared to other markets around the city. Regardless of the clothing prices no one can argue with the great value food offered on the top floor. Located next to Sanlitun Village disembark at Tuanjiehu undergound station.

4. Guanyuan Fish and Animal Market

From birds to snakes and snails to tortoises this market has every living creature you could ever imagine for sale, definitly one of the more unique markets in Beijing. Take exit B at Fuchengmen station to soak up the atmosphere.

5. Donghuamen Night Market

A culinary adventure on the streets of Beijing, negotiate the stalls sampling everything from scorpion to chicken legs, take a trip down Donghuamen street, just off Wangfujing to experiance a real taste of China.

6. Panjiayuan Antiques Market

Bustling and filled with noise (and fake antiques) this is a great place to take something unusual away from your travels to China. Barter hard and soak up the atmosphere. Situated East of the Temple of Heaven it is best to hail a cab to this particular selling kingdom.

7. Beijing Curio City Market

Reportedly frequented by Hilary Clinton during her travels to Beijing this is the largest indoor antiques market in the world. Pick up some Mongolian crystal or Burmese emerald as you browse the many stalls. Take bus number 802 to Zuoan Lu to explore further.

8. Beijing Kite Market

Awash with colour and charm situated on the outskirts of the city centre near Capital Airport Beijing Kite Market is a unique day out for all the family. Refreshingly traders do not thrust their products in front of potential customers instead smile and pose for pictures with there colourful creations.

For more information on Beijing contact China Travel Depot or check out our online guide at China Travel Depot’s online guide.

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