One of Beijing's most popular commercial centers, Wangfujing (Wángfǔjǐng, 王府井) is home to hundreds of shops, the city's largest shopping mall, the Xinhua bookstore and the famous night market.

While Wangfujing is presently emblazoned with lights and billboards of popular Chinese and Western brand names, the street owns a long history of commercial activity. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, the highest ranking princes were housed along the street, keeping them close to the watchful eyes of the imperial throne. The name comes from its royal origins as well as a natural spring located in the area, today capped by a decorative manhole cover.

In the late 1990s, the street was converted into a pedestrian-only destination, making cruising the area much easier and safer.

Tourists naturally gravitate to Wangfujing due to its proximity to Tian'anmen Square and the Forbidden City, but also because it is an excellent place to purchase traditional Chinese gifts (fans, silks, Mao-morabilia) as well as discounted electronics.

Every night, a lane of red and white food stalls near the north-west end of Wangfujing transforms into a vibrant night market, selling exotic snacks. Locals and tourists alike congregate along the street to eat and stroll.

Beijing guide | Beijing attractions | Beijing flights | Beijing hotels
Beijing tours & activities | Beijing on the China Travel Blog