What to Buy in Beijing: Best Beijing Shopping Spots & Souvenirs

The moment I stepped into Beijing, I felt like I’d entered a real-life history book — but with a twist of modern cool. I was struck by how massive everything felt — from the wide roads to the ancient palaces that make you go "wah!" in awe. The weather in Beijing caught me off guard too — dry and crisp in spring, freezing in winter, totally different from the humid, sunny island!

Shopping there was such a fun surprise, too! From the artsy vibes at 798 Art District to the treasures at Panjiayuan Market, I found so many unique pieces, and all pretty affordable compared to SG. If you're wondering what to bring home, here’s what to buy in Beijing for the best souvenirs!

What to Buy in Beijing?

Let’s dive into some awesome souvenirs and cool finds you can only get in Beijing!

1. Beijing Museum & Forbidden City Souvenirs

When I visited the Palace Museum and the surrounding museum district, I was amazed by the variety of souvenirs inspired by Beijing’s deep history and art. From delicate porcelain miniatures and elegant silk scarves embroidered with palace motifs to quirky Forbidden City cat, crown fridge magnets, each item felt like a little story from the city itself. 

📖 About Beijing Museum & Forbidden City Souvenirs

These souvenirs represent Beijing’s rich cultural heritage and artistic mastery. They’re must-buy souvenirs in Beijing. Museums often stock these unique gifts, blending education with beautiful craftsmanship. They are lightweight and easy to carry.

💡 Pro Tips

• Bargain politely at street stalls but expect fixed prices in official museum shops.
• Pack fragile items carefully—some shops offer protective packaging.

2. Cloisonné Enamelware (景泰蓝)

I first stumbled upon cloisonné at a small boutique near the Lama Temple — the shelves were glowing with brilliant blues, reds, and golds. The shop owner proudly showed me a hand-sized vase and explained how each one is made with copper wire, enamel, and hours of delicate work. I couldn’t resist getting a small jewelry box — it felt like bringing a piece of imperial Beijing home. It was intricate, elegant, and just… so Beijing.

📖 About Cloisonné Enamelware (景泰蓝)

Known locally as Jingtailan (景泰蓝), cloisonné is one of Beijing’s most iconic traditional crafts. It dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is known for its vibrant colors and royal aesthetic. From vases and plates to bracelets and bookmarks, cloisonné represents precision, patience, and the proud artisanal roots.

💡 Pro Tips

• Look for smooth, even enamel and clear copper outlines.
• Smaller items like earrings or chopsticks make easier luggage options.

3. Bracelet from Yonghe Temple

Wandering through the peaceful courtyards of Yonghe Temple, the smell of sandalwood in the air. I noticed handmade bead bracelets are selling there. Each bracelet has to be blessed at the temple. I picked one with deep grey beads and golden accents — simple yet powerful. It wasn’t just pretty, it felt spiritual.

📖 About Yonghe Temple Bracelet

These bracelets are more than accessories — they’re deeply symbolic souvenirs from Beijing. A must-buy souvenir in Beijing, prayer beads (often called shouzhu) from Yonghe Temple are said to bring peace, luck, and protection. They’re commonly gifted to loved ones or worn as a reminder of mindfulness.

💡 Pro Tips

• Check if it’s temple-blessed (some stalls will indicate this).
• Avoid mass-produced touristy versions outside the area.

4. Peking Opera Masks

Source: tese5.com

I first spotted these colourful, dramatic Peking Opera masks at a little cultural shop in Nanluoguxiang — the kind of place where you walk in “just to look” and walk out with your hands full. The shopkeeper gave me a crash course in the meanings behind each mask — red for loyalty, black for strength, white for cunning. I ended up choosing a red-and-gold one that looked fierce but noble. It felt like owning a mini slice of Beijing’s theatrical soul!

📖 About Peking Opera Masks

These masks are iconic souvenirs from Beijing, closely tied to the city's traditional opera culture. A must-buy souvenir in Beijing, each mask reflects a character type and emotion in Peking Opera performances. It can be a cool home décor. 

💡 Pro Tips

• Choose ones with painted wood or papier-mâché for authentic textures.
• Fragile types should be hand-carried, not checked in.

5. Chinese Tea Sets

I stumbled upon this gorgeous Chinese tea set in a quiet corner of Panjiayuan Market. It was tucked inside a stall lined with jade bracelets, porcelain plates, and embroidered fans. The vendor, an elderly man with a calming presence, told me the tea set was Yixing clay — perfect for oolong and pu’er. I loved the smooth texture and warm earthy tone.

📖 About Chinese Tea Sets

A must-buy souvenir in Beijing, traditional tea sets are symbols of hospitality and harmony. Many are made from Yixing clay or Jingdezhen porcelain and are used in Chinese tea ceremonies.

💡 Pro Tips

• Yixing clay sets are best for dark teas like pu’er and oolong.
• Porcelain ones are more delicate — bubble-wrap them well!

6. Beijing Embroidery

I first spotted Beijing-style embroidery at a quiet shop near the Temple of Heaven — delicate wall hangings and pouches displayed like tiny masterpieces. The light caught on the fine silk threads, and I couldn’t stop staring at a floral piece that looked like it was painted, not sewn. I ended up picking a hand-embroidered silk pouch as a gift for my mum — super light, meaningful, and uniquely Chinese.

📖 About Beijing-style Embroidery

Known as 京绣 (Jīngxiù), this traditional art form dates back over 1,000 years and is one of China’s four great embroidery styles. It’s famous for its refined techniques, vivid colours, and cultural themes — often featuring flowers, birds, and imperial motifs. It’s light, easy to pack, and looks far more expensive than it is.

💡 Pro Tips

• Ask if it’s machine or hand-embroidered — the latter is more valuable.
• Roll larger pieces instead of folding to avoid creases.

7. Traditional Calligraphy Sets

I stumbled across a gorgeous calligraphy set while browsing the stalls at Liulichang Cultural Street — that place is heaven for anyone who loves Chinese arts and antiques. One elderly vendor even let me try writing a character with a brush right there on the spot! The smooth feel of the inkstone, the elegance of the bamboo brush… it just felt so zen. I picked up a beginner’s set with everything.

📖 About Traditional Calligraphy Sets

A classic gift, calligraphy sets represent centuries of Chinese artistic tradition. Used by scholars, poets, and emperors, these sets usually include four key items: brush, ink stick, inkstone, and xuan paper — also known as the “Four Treasures of the Study” (文房四宝).

💡 Pro Tips

• Ask if the ink stick is handmade (they often smell faintly herbal — a sign of quality).
• Pick a portable travel-sized set for easy packing.

8. Peking Duck-flavored Snacks

I first saw these quirky Peking Duck-flavoured potato chips at a convenience store near my hotel in Wangfujing. The packaging had this bold cartoon duck on it and smelled so fragrant I couldn’t resist. I cracked it open back in my hotel room, and — wah — that crispy skin flavour, the sweet-savory glaze… it really captured the essence of Beijing’s iconic dish! I ended up buying extra to pack for friends back home.

📖 About Peking Duck-flavored Snacks

A fun twist on Beijing’s most famous dish, these snacks are a must-buy souvenir in Beijing for foodies. From chips to jerky and even instant noodles, you’ll find the familiar sweet-savory aroma of roast duck in all kinds of snack forms. 

💡 Pro Tips

• Look out for limited-edition flavours like truffle duck or spicy duck neck.
• Avoid packing liquid-based snacks in carry-on — jerky or chips travel better.

9. Beijing Yogurt (Nai Lao) & Milk Skin (Nai Pi Zi)

I stumbled upon this creamy delight while wandering through a quiet alley near Qianmen. It was Beijing’s famous Nai Lao (奶酪), or traditional yogurt. The texture was like a cross between tau huay and panna cotta, but with that rich, old-school dairy flavour. Then I spotted the legendary milk skin 紫光园奶皮子. It's milky and slightly sweet.

📖 About Beijing Yogurt & Milk Skins

Nai Lao (also called Lao Beijing suan nai) is a must-buy souvenir in Beijing that dates back to the imperial court. It’s usually made fresh daily and served in reusable ceramic jars. Meanwhile, Milk Skin is a traditional snack made from condensed milk skin.

💡 Pro Tips

• The Nai Lao is best eaten fresh — enjoy it on the spot or at your hotel.
• The milk skins are great for flights.

10. Daoxiangcun Pastries

I first walked into a Daoxiangcun flagship store, not really sure what I’d find… and wow, it was like stepping into a pastry wonderland. Rows upon rows of traditional Beijing-style snacks — from flaky lotus paste pastries to sweet jujube rolls and sesame seed cakes. The aroma of freshly baked goodies hit me instantly! 

📖 About Daoxiangcun Pastries

Daoxiangcun (稻香村) has been baking traditional Beijing snacks since 1895, making it one of the oldest and most iconic food brands in China. Their pastries are a must-buy souvenir from Beijing.

💡 Pro Tips

• Check for the official logo (稻香村) to avoid copycat brands.
• Choose vacuum-sealed boxes for better packing and travel-friendliness.

11. Rolling Donkey Rice Rolls (驴打滚)

When I took my first bite of 驴打滚 — warm, slightly sweet with a nutty finish — it reminded me of muah chee, but softer and more aromatic. The name "Rolling Donkey" made me laugh, and I knew I had to bring a few boxes back for the fam.

📖 About Rolling Donkey Rice Rolls (驴打滚)

This nostalgic Beijing snack is made from steamed glutinous rice dough filled with red bean paste and rolled in roasted soybean flour. The name comes from the way it looks — like a donkey rolling in dust. 

💡 Pro Tips

• Eat it fresh if you can — the texture is best when soft and warm.
• Vacuum-packed versions are great for flights and gifting.

12. Wu Yu Tai Tea Shop Biscuits & Tea (吴裕泰茶庄)

The shop smelled wonderfully of fresh tea leaves, and alongside the fragrant teas were neatly stacked boxes of crispy biscuits. The shopkeeper shared how these biscuits have been a beloved Beijing treat for over a century, often enjoyed with a cup of their famous jasmine tea. Trying one, I loved the crunchy texture paired with a subtle sweetness — the perfect tea-time snack!

📖 About Wu Yu Tai

Wu Yu Tai is a historic Beijing brand famous for premium teas and traditional snacks like these biscuits. They represent Beijing’s tea culture and make a must-buy souvenir in Beijing for tea lovers and foodies alike. The biscuits come in classic flavors like sesame, walnut, and almond — all lightly sweetened and delightfully crisp.

💡 Pro Tips

• Ask for gift-wrapped boxes if buying for presents.
• Pair your biscuits with Wu Yu Tai’s jasmine or green tea for an authentic experience.

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Best Beijing Shopping Streets

Beijing’s shopping streets are buzzing with energy and full of hidden gems — here’s where you can find everything from traditional crafts to the latest trends!

1. Panjiayuan Antique Market

A bustling weekend market packed with antiques, vintage crafts, and cultural treasures. It’s the perfect spot to find unique souvenirs like traditional calligraphy, old coins, and handcrafted jade jewelry — each piece carrying a slice of Beijing’s rich history.

• 📍 Location: Chaoyang District, Beijing.
• 🚇 Nearest metro station: Panjiayuan Station (Line 10).
• 💰 Cost: Varies widely, roughly S$20–S$150 depending on item and authenticity.
• 💡 Tips: Take time to bargain and chat with vendors; watch out for fragile items; better for visitors who enjoy hunting for authentic finds.

2. Xiushui Street

Xiushui Street, also known as Silk Market, is a bustling shopping destination in Beijing's Chaoyang District. Located at No. 8 East Xiushui Street, the market spans multiple floors and offers a vast array of goods.

• 📍 Location: No. 8 East Xiushui Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing.
• 🚇 Nearest metro station: Yonganli Station (Line 1), Exit A.
• 💰 Cost: Varies widely; items range from ¥20 (~S$4) to ¥400 (~S$80) depending on quality and type.
• 💡 Tips: Bargaining is expected; start with 30–50% lower than the asking price and negotiate from there. 

3. Dashilan Street

Dashilan Street (大栅栏) is one of Beijing’s oldest and most vibrant commercial streets, offering a unique blend of traditional architecture, time-honored shops, and rich cultural heritage. Located just southwest of Tiananmen Square, this 275-meter-long pedestrian street has been a bustling marketplace since the Ming Dynasty. 

• 📍 Location: Dashilan Street, Xicheng District, Beijing.
• 🚇 Nearest metro station: Qianmen Station (Line 2), Exit C.
• 💰 Cost: Varies widely; items range from ¥20 (~S$4) to ¥400 (~S$80) depending on quality and type.
• 💡 Tips: Bargaining is common; start with a lower offer and negotiate politely.

Best Beijing Shopping Malls

Beijing’s shopping malls offer a fantastic blend of modern luxury and traditional charm — here are the best places to enjoy a great shopping spree!

1. Wangfujing

Wangfujing (王府井) is a must-visit spot if you're into shopping, food, and soaking up Beijing's old-meets-new vibes. This bustling pedestrian street blends centuries-old stores with modern malls, making it perfect for both souvenir hunting and fashion finds. Think traditional snacks, silk scarves, Chinese tea, and quirky street eats — all in one place. 

• 📍 Location: Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• 🚇 Nearest metro station: Wangfujing Station (Line 1).
• 💰 Cost: From ¥10 (~S$2) for local snacks to ¥300+ (~S$55) for premium silk or tea gift sets.
• 💡 Tips: Try the local specialty snacks sold at the Wangfujing Snack Street — but check prices first to avoid tourist traps.

2. Sanlitun Taikooli

Sanlitun Taikoo Li is an open-air shopping complex. Comprising 19 interconnected buildings, it offers a seamless blend of fashion, dining, and entertainment across its North and South zones. The mall features over 300 stores, including flagship outlets for global brands like Apple, Uniqlo, Adidas, and Nike, alongside local designer boutiques. Visitors can also enjoy a diverse range of international cuisines, art galleries, and a cinema.

• 📍 Location: 19 Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing.
• 🚇 Nearest metro station: Tuanjiehu Station (Line 10), Dongdaqiao Station (Line 6), Dongsi Shitiao Station (Line 2).
• 💰 Cost: Varies by store; fashion items range from ¥100 (~S$20) to ¥1,000 (~S$200).
• 💡 Tips: Explore both North and South zones to experience the full range of shopping and dining options.

3. SKP Beijing

SKP Beijing stands as a premier luxury shopping destination in Beijing, renowned for its vast selection of high-end brands and exceptional services. It spans an impressive 180,000 square meters across six floors, offering a curated mix of international and local designer labels. The mall features over 700 brands, including over 230 luxury labels such as Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, making it a haven for fashion enthusiasts.

• 📍 Location: No. 87 Jianguomen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing.
• 🚇 Nearest metro station: Dawanglu Station (Lines 1 & 14).
• 💰 Cost: Prices vary; luxury goods are premium-priced.
• 💡 Tips: Visit SKP-S, the adjacent experiential shopping space, for immersive art and fashion installations.

Bringing a Piece of Beijing Home

Looking back at all the treasures I found in Beijing, I can honestly say—each one felt like a little piece of the city I could bring home. From hand-painted opera masks to beautifully packaged teas, these souvenirs weren’t just “things”—they were stories, vibes, and memories. 

The buzz of Panjiayuan, the elegance of Silk Street, the surprises in hidden alleys—it all made the hunt so fun. If you’re thinking of going, check out the latest travel promotions for Beijing—you might just score amazing deals on flights to Beijing and hotels in Beijing too. Happy packing and happy travels!