LIVING IN BEIJING -
Shopping
Shopping in Beijing can change from the best to the worst experience in a few moments. Bargain shopping is standard and hidden gems can be found through crowds of shoppers and intrusive shopkeepers.
Bargaining is a part of the culture, so refrain from asking the price unless you are serious about buying. The first price given will be outrageous, so aim for one-third (or even sometime one-tenth) of the initial asking price. Walking away is a good trick, and you'll often be called back. Most shopkeepers speak English, but almost all have a calculator handy to make sure there is no confusion on figures.
In general, foreigners have a tough time finding clothes to fit. Shopping can thus be frustrating when trying to squeeze into local sizes. However, markets set up for tourists as well as international brands cater to larger sizes.
Markets
An experience all visitors must try, shopping in one of Beijing's bargain markets is truly unique. Counterfeit brands and pushy vendors sell everything under the sun, from electronics and sports equipment to clothes and antiques
| Name | Goods | Area |
| Electronics Market | Anything and everything electronic | Zhongguancun |
| Bainaohui | A smaller version of the electronics market | Worker's Stadium |
| Silk Market (Xiu Shui) | Clothes, footwear, pearls, sports equipment, electronics | CBD |
| Yashow Market | Clothes, footwear, pearls, sports equipment, electronics | Sanlitun |
| Peal Market (Hong Qiao) | Clothes, footwear, pearls, sports equipment, electronics | South Beijing |
| Panjiayuan | Antiques | Southeast Beijing (Third Ring Road) |
Shopping Malls
Beijing is building more glitzy shopping malls to accommodate the rising number of wealthy Chinese middle class citizens. Shopping malls tend to house only the most elite shops and international brands. Chinese love to browse, so they are a perfect fit for mall culture. The Oriental Plaza, 3.3 Shopping Mall, China World Shopping Mall, Shin Kong Place, Solana, Lane Crawford, and The Place are only a few of the luxury shopping malls that both Chinese and expatriates enjoy.
Supermarkets
The big chains are always crowded, so plan to spend some time grocery shopping. Local produce markets are the best for fresh fruits and vegetables, but head inside a supermarket when searching for meat and fish. A limited selection of imported brands can be found at large chains such as Wal-mart or Carrefour, but if you are really craving a specific food from home, head to Jenny Lou's and April Gourmet, both expat shops that charge a premium for their international selection.