The Silk Market (also known as Silk Street, or "Xiushui" in Chinese). The old Silk Market opened around 30 years ago but was demolished on the basis of it being a health and safety hazard, as well as the prolific selling of counterfeit goods at low prices. On March 9 2005, a newly built Silk Market was opened on the same site.  The government, in cooperation with famous fashion labels, has restricted the sale of counterfeit designer brands at the Silk Market although it is still possible to find some fake designer goods, such as Burberry and Louis Vuitton.

The most specialized goods in the Silk Market are Chinese silks (hence the name). The Chinese silk products in the market are cheap and of a decent quality. Another feature, especially of the new Silk Market, are a variety of other Chinese handicrafts, which help to attract tourists. There are also lots of cashmere garments, down jackets, leather goods, shoes, hats, watches and some handicrafts and trinkets.  The market is also well-served by cafes and restaurants, including the Quanjude Peking Duck restaurant and Lavazza Coffee.  Today there are over 1,700 vendors and on a weekend can attract as many as 60,000 shoppers!

The Silk Market also gives visitors a chance to try out their bargaining skills, as prices for the vast majority of products are not fixed.  If you are well versed in the art of haggling you can find some real bargains, though if you are too soft-hearted you may be taken for a ride.  A good piece of advice is to know how much you want to spend and don't be afraid to walk away!  If you are a novice in the art of bargaining or don't enjoy the confrontation, you may be better off bringing a Chinese friend with you or alternatively join one of our tours so our guides can help you out!

Over the past few years, hundreds of world leaders and international celebrities have visited the Silk Market and bought lots of products. The Silk Market has become a popular and renowned destination for shopping and tourism in Beijing.