VIBE

One of the largest malls in Asia, this super-luxe Wangfujing shopping center houses (literally) miles of swank boutiques, as well as the Grand Hyatt hotel and some of the city’s most desirable office space. International powerhouse brands like Armani, Burberry, and Tiffany & Co. dominate, but there’s also a great selection of hot Chinese labels. Highlights include Vivienne Tam, doing modern takes on classic Chinese designs; Shanghaixu, offering bespoke qipaos (Chinese dresses); and Emperor, featuring cool Chinese-inspired homewares. On the lower level, there is a little area of smaller local shops (slightly touristy) that are worth browsing around.

USE A PURCHASE FROM HERE FOR

An upscale Chinese outfit; a luxury gift

WHY WE LIKE IT

We really like the varied offerings of high-end Chinese labels–it makes Oriental Plaza stand out from other malls around town. Also, stellar onsite restaurants like My Humble House and South Beauty make spending an afternoon here even more delicious.

GOOD TO KNOW

There’s also a supermarket, a cinema, a Dairy Queen, and a handful of beauty salons on site. Conveniently (especially in the winter), the subway goes right into the mall. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the museum in the basement (near the subway station), which houses ancient artifacts from the Paleolithic period discovered during the construction of the mall.

CLOSEST COMPS

Beijing Kerry Centre (Beijing); Shin Kong Mitsukoshi (Beijing); China World Mall (Beijing); Seasons Place (Beijing)