Shopping in Beijing’s Chinese street market is unlike a visit to a typical high street or shopping centre. It’s noisy, fast-paced, and full of surprises — and if you don’t know how to bargain, you’re likely to pay well over the odds. This guide will show you exactly how to handle yourself in one, whether you’re picking up silk scarves at Silk Street or browsing antiques at Panjiayuan.
Originally published in 2013, this guide has been fully updated for 2025 to help British visitors navigate Beijing’s bustling Chinese street markets with confidence and savvy.
Everything I bought in 2013 at the Yashow Chinese street market
What is a Chinese Street Market?
A Chinese street market is a vibrant marketplace where vendors sell everything from souvenirs and clothing to electronics, jewellery, and tea sets. Expect narrow aisles, repeated products, bold sales tactics, and above all — haggling. Markets like these are common in Beijing and popular with tourists. While fun and culturally enriching, they’re also places where prices are flexible, and bargaining is expected.
1. Be Aware of Where You’re Shopping
If you’re near a major tourist attraction, prices are inflated. Sellers assume you won’t know the difference — so don’t buy the first thing you see. Make a note of it and look for the same item in a different market or further from the tourist crowds.
2. Shop Late in the Day
The best time to get a deal is often just before closing. Sellers are more willing to compromise as they try to clear stock — and you might be their final sale of the day.
3. Only Ask the Price if You’re Ready to Negotiate
If you ask “how much?”, be prepared to engage. Once you do, sellers may follow you, calling out new prices or waving calculators. If you’re not serious about buying, it’s best not to start the conversation.
4. Carry Small Notes
Don’t pull out a wad of large 100 RMB notes. It weakens your position. Carry a mix of smaller denominations so you can pay the price you’ve agreed without appearing overly wealthy.
5. Don’t Look Too Keen
Keep a neutral face — even if you love something. If you show too much enthusiasm, the seller will hold firm on price. Remember, most stalls are selling the same things.
6. Be Polite but Firm
But be firm, it’s all a game. The vendors love to be dramatic.
7. Walk Away (Even If You Want It)
This is your strongest move. If the seller won’t budge, thank them and begin to leave. More often than not, they’ll call you back and lower the price — sometimes dramatically.
8. Keep It Light
Have a laugh. If their offer is ridiculous, tell them so — with a smile. Joke back, play the game. It helps you connect and keeps things from becoming tense.
9. Set Your Maximum Price
Decide beforehand what you’re willing to pay, and don’t go over it. If the price doesn’t come down to your range, leave. There will be other sellers.
10. Start Low
Begin your offer well below what you’re willing to pay — around 25–30%. This gives you room to meet in the middle. For example, if you’re happy to pay 100 RMB, start at 25 and work your way up.
Final Word
Shopping in Beijing’s Chinese street markets is part cultural experience, part treasure hunt. They are a brilliant way to shop, soak up the atmosphere, and come away with something unique — or at least memorable. These tips won’t guarantee the lowest price, but they will help you shop with confidence, avoid common traps, and have a bit of fun in the process.
Ready for more tips? Try Survival Tips for the Beijing Subway
