Hongqiao Market (Pearl Market)

Lonely Planet review

Besides a cosmos of clutter (shoes, clothing, electronics and much more) and an impressive (and smelly) fish market in the basement, Hongqiao is home to more pearls than the South Seas. A huge range of them are available - freshwater and seawater, white pearls and black pearls - on the 3rd floor and prices vary incredibly depending on the quality.

Hongqiao is a well-established spot on the Běijīng tourist trail and so prices for all goods are generally high, while the vendors, who often speak some English, are canny bargainers. There's a decent view of the Temple of Heaven from the 5th floor, and if you have kids in tow, don't miss the Kids Toys market (Hóngqiáo Tiānlè Wánjù Shìchǎng; ; 08:30 - 19:00 ) in the building behind, stuffed to the gills with soft toys, cars, kits, electronic games, film tie-ins, models and more.