Ever wondered where Beijingers go to shop? It’s Wangfujing Street. This isn’t just any street. It’s a symbol of Beijing’s commerce.
Wangfujing Street stretches about 1,600 meters. That is approximately one mile. It runs from Changan Avenue to the National Art Museum of China. Imagine this street bustling with life for 700 years.
The name “Wangfujing” has an interesting origin. “Wangfu” means royal mansion. “Jing” means well. Long ago eight royal mansions stood here. A well with sweet water quenched their thirst. Thus, the street became Wangfujing.
Now, look around. Over 600,000 people traverse Wangfujing Street daily. That number can double on holidays. Truly, Wangfujing is Beijing’s busiest street.
Once known as Morrison Street. This was named after journalist George Ernest Morrison. Wangfujing stands as one of Beijing’s traditional downtown areas. It stands alongside Liulichang.
Up until the late 1990s, cars drove here. In 1999 and 2000, Wangfujing transformed. It became mostly pedestrian-only.
Notice the variety of shops. Wangfujing houses around 280 shops. You’ll find world-famous brands here. There are also time-honored stores. These stores have offered traditional goods for hundreds of years. Many consider Wangfujing comparable to Paris’s Champs-Elysees.
Let’s talk about food. The Wangfujing snack street once thrived just west of here. Though closed as of February 2024, it offered countless delights. Food stalls served common and exotic treats. Think chuanr or meat kebabs and tanghulu. Tanghulu is candied fruits on a stick.
Look for the manhole cover protected by iron chains. It marks the original sweet water well. It commemorates Wangfujing’s name.
Many famous stores call Wangfujing home. Shengxifu sells hats worn by Chairman Mao and Premier Zhou. Tongshenghe offers cloth shoes loved by Chinese celebrities. Ruifuxiang provides top-quality silk and cheongsams. Gongmei Mansion showcases crafts like cloisonné and jade ware.
Don’t miss the Beijing APM. It stands on the site of the old Dong’an Market. Wuyutai Tea Shop provides jasmine tea. Yong’an Tang Herb Store offers traditional Chinese medicines. The Chinese Photo Studio captures portraits for generations. The Malls at Oriental Plaza cater to every taste. Xinhua Bookstore stocks a wide selection of books. Donglaishun Restaurant serves cuisine from around the world. Quanjude offers Beijing’s famous roast duck.
If you need a rest, you will find davenports. These benches are placed along the street for visitors.
Consider taking a sightseeing bus. It runs through Wangfujing Street. It goes also along Nanheyan Street. The tour guide shares the street’s history and sights.
Remember the tax refund policy. Several stores offer tax-free shopping for overseas tourists. These include Gongmei Mansion and Wangfujing Department Store. Also, Dong’an Department Store and Wuyutai Tea Shop.
Today, Wangfujing Street stands as a testament to Beijing’s past and present. Its blend of history, commerce, and culture makes it a must-see destination. As you continue your exploration, remember the sweet well and the royal mansions that gave Wangfujing its name.