VIBE

In the early 20th century, Wangfujing was where Beijing’s cosmopolitan types came to stock up on imported goods and the latest fashions. In the post-1979 “Reform and Opening” period, Beijing’s government sought to capitalize on that glam past, making it one of the first spots in the city approved for redevelopment and allowing scores of international mega-brands to open shop here for the first time since the Communist revolution. These days, much of the once-prized early-1980s architecture looks a little dated, but the area nonetheless still retains its cachet among locals as one of Beijing’s more exclusive shopping districts. Glitzy mega-mall Oriental Plaza at the south end of the street is the most fashionable address, though international designer boutiques are mixed in with some downbeat state-run shops heading north from there. Just around the corner, the swish shopping arcade in the Peninsula Hotel features outposts of Cartier, Chanel, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton. And at the north end of the street, meander through the night market for some local eats.

USE A PURCHASE FROM HERE FOR

A souvenir; a fashion statement

WHY WE LIKE IT

The great selection of designer boutiques around the neighborhood. Wandering Wangfujing is also a nifty way to get a feel for what shopping in Beijing was like back in the day–pop into a state-run shop like the Foreign Languages Bookshop for a dose of the grimly utilitarian days of yore.

GOOD TO KNOW

If you’re around in the evening, head to the north end of Wang Fu Jing Da Jie to take in the Dong Hua Men night market, where you can sample traditional Beijing delicacies like roasted silkworms and candied fruit. (Avoid, however, the more prominently advertised “Wangfujing Snack Street.” It’s just a grimier, more touristy knockoff of Dong Hua Men.) Though this area is commonly known as Wangfujing, it also includes Dong Dan (the next street over to the east) and Dong Si (the street connecting the two). Crowds on weekends can be overwhelming–come on a weekday if you want a quiet browse.