Shopping in Beijing

Distinctive and intricate, carved lacquer or Qidiao is a decorative technique that is found almost exclusively in China. It is an art form that is found on practical objects such as boxes, plates and trays, but it is also used to decorate screens and even pieces of Chinese furniture. Carved lacquerware has been treasured as art since around the 12th century and although it was largely enjoyed by royalty – the Orchard Factory famously created furniture for imperial palaces in Beijing – after a factory was established in 1949, it has been appreciated by a wider audience. A visit to the factory today allows visitors to gain an appreciation of carved lacquerware and to acquire their own piece of this unique form of art.

Beijing is home to the famous traditional enamelware referred to as Cloisonne. Although the term is French in origin, the actual art form is thought to have come from Turkey originally. Cloisonne – or ‘Blue of Jingtai’ – was developed during the Ming dynasty. It is commonly found on products like vases, jars, bowls, plates, boxes, and ashtrays. The process of creating pieces involves delicate metal strips being soldered to a design, with the spaces or cloisons, being filled with enamel, which together created beautiful designs. Jingfa is the registered (and distinctive) trademark for the Beijing Enamel Brand, with pieces from this factory attracting collectors from all over the world. If you’re after a treasure that is truly special, make a stop here while in Beijing.

China is a land of many curiosities, and you’ll most surely agree once you discover the inside-painted snuff bottle. Incredibly, these bottles, made of glass, crystal or agate, are painted on the inside using a curved brush. Snuff bottles were popular at a time when tobacco was prohibited (during the Qing dynasty). They were used to store snuff tobacco, which was considered an exception for its purpose as a remedy for certain ailments. The popularity of snuff bottles for purely practical purposes dissipated in the early 20th century, however, collectors today actively seek them out for their historical value. While in Beijing, look out for copies at Hongqiao Market.

Throughout Chinese history to today, jade carvings in all shapes and colors are regarded as valuable and steeped in meaning. In the past, jade has been a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, although its popularity as a medium for art is more widely recognized. Jade carvings come in all shapes and sizes, from traditional to contemporary. Look out for authentic jade traders to ensure the integrity of your purchase.

Usually translated as Rabbit God figurines, Tu’re Ye are figurines that are unique to Beijing and represent a tradition that is practiced during the mid-autumn festival. Families pay their respects to the Rabbit God, that is part man, part rabbit. Praying to the Rabbit God is meant to bring peace and good luck. These figures are usually made from clay and therefore very fragile. Before Chinese New Year, if the Rabbit God has not broken, it is smashed to remove all the old energy and create space for a new Rabbit God. Coming in all shapes and sizes, these quirky little rabbits are another example of China’s rich handcrafted traditions.

These simple figures are a type of traditional folk art created from dough made of flour and glutinous rice flour, dyes, paraffin and honey. The figures depict well-known Chinese characters from opera, folklore, fairy tales, cartoons, zodiac signs, and other animals. As with many art forms, the dough figures enjoy a history that dates back thousands of years and today’s specialty shops in Beijing keep this tradition alive, both for local Beijingers, and those travelers curious about the historical significance they represent.

Founded in 1853 by Zhao Ting, Neiliansheng Shoe Store was the official manufacturer of shoes worn by government officials. Now, this traditional style of hand-sewn cloth shoe is synonymous with being quintessentially Chinese. Made with more than 40 different tools, according to a process of 90 steps, each pair takes around four to five days to finish. Without a doubt, a pair of these covetable shoes provides a step back in time with a Chinese icon.

It seems shoes have always been held in esteem in Beijing’s history, and it’s easy to understand why once you’ve discovered embroidered shoes. Used as a means to accentuate the attractiveness of their feet, wealthy women invested in these beautifully embroidered shoes to wear at weddings, baby showers, birthdays, funerals, and other significant life events. Now far more readily available, you can own a pair too (without having to master the skill of embroidery!).

In China, an umbrella has long been considered important for both practical and aesthetic reasons. Traditional oil-paper umbrellas are crafted from bamboo and pizhi or mianzhi – types of thin paper that is highly durable. The craft of creating these stunning artworks emerged during the Eastern Han dynasty (25 AD – 220 AD) and endured through millennia, regarded as a symbol of reunion, romance, beauty, and fertility. Umbrellas made following the traditional art form are sold at one of Beijing’s iconic specialty stores, Ruoshui Tang, which has a 100-year history.

Heralded as Beijing’s first sustainable building, Parkview Green is a standout both in design and architecture. It is an entire complex within itself where you’ll find a luxurious hotel, office tower, shopping mall, and art center all in one. Shoppers can admire the modern exterior before spending time wandering floors of shops, which showcase some of the world’s finest brands. Think of it as a new Beijing icon set to bring travelers from all over the world.

Taikoo Li Sanlitun is serious shopping on steroids. It is located in the Chaoyang district in Beijing and comprises 19 buildings that could be considered a shopping mecca. Each building is just minutes walk away from each other, and it’s here you’ll find other iconic Beijing shopping destinations like Beijing APM, Joy City, and Xidan Commercial Street.

Rising up out of what was once the old Dong’an department store, Beijing APM is popular among locals for its six floors of shopping and dining options. Global brands like Nike, GAP, and Zara have established their Asian flagship stores here, however, there are many other options for the dedicated fashion lover.

Although China World might sound like something out of a video game, it is far from it. Forming part of the China World Trade Center, China World Shopping Arcade was the first official ‘shopping mall’ in Beijing when stage one was completed in 1990. Now with two expansions completed, China World is the home of luxury brands, an ice-skating rink, and a cinema. The building also features landscaped gardens that provide moments of tranquility amid a shopping frenzy.

Consistently recognized as a stunning destination for luxury and high-end fashion, SKP Beijing (formerly Shin Kong Place) will appeal to the discerning shopper looking for an experience when they shop. In 2020 alone, SKP welcomed over 20 million visitors, a sign that it attracts those with big pockets and a keen interest in buying the very best. SKP can be found at Da Wang Qiao in Chaoyang District. If you’re looking for shopping gold, you won’t miss it.

Yet another mega shopping mall in Chaoyang District. If it’s floors and floors of shopping you want, you need to look no further than Joy City. We think maybe it earned its name for the shopping joy it brings those who grace its doorways. Coach and H&M have called this home, as have many other globally recognized brands.