6. Shop at Silk Market

Described as "the third best-known tourist destination in Beijing after the Palace Museum and the Great Wall," Silk Street (aka Xiushui Market) attracts approximately 20,000 visitors daily (from 9am to 9pm) on weekdays and between 50,000 to 60,000 on weekends. This 35,000m2 complex houses 1,700 retail vendors and over 3,000 salespeople spread over seven floors and three basement levels. Over the years many of the stalls have gained local and international notoriety for selling counterfeit luxury designer brands at relatively low prices. Some have continued this activity despite growing pressure from the management, the Chinese government, and famous name brand companies. Be prepared to bargain hard for the best price.

Open 09:00-21:00. Tel: 010 5169 8800.
Website: www.xiushui.com.cn/english