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Dashilan street, Xicheng Dstrict, Beijing, China
Famous time-honored commercial street for shopping and eating
Dashilan'er (also known as Dazhalan West Street), one of Beijing's oldest commercial streets has re-opened following intensive renovations that lasted for over one year and cost 93 million RMB. Dashilan'er is located in the Qianmen area, south of Tiananmen Square in the heart of Beijing. The "new" historic street has retained the traditional appearance of ancient Chinese buildings. The main Market Street is concentrated with small vendors and ancient shop fronts, transporting visitors back to a time when this area served as the main hub of commerce over 600 years ago.
The renovation concentrated on the major buildings along the western section of the street. One of the oldest shops on the street is Qingyunge, or the "Blue Cloud Pacilion". It was one of the four department stores in Beijing in the late Qing dynasty. Many famous political and literary figures once dined and shopped there. Besides such major architecture, there are also multiple small vendors along the street, selling various local snacks.
Dashilan'er is not only intended to showcase China's traditional culture and rich history to foreigners, but most of the visitors are actually Chinese people who see this re-development as an opportunity to reconnect with China's rich historical past. It is hoped that the new street will bring new business to the area, hence spurring the area’s economy and contributing to its development.
Dashilan’er is home to some of Beijing’s most emblematic old brands, each with its own story. If you want to dive deeper into Beijing’s traditional craftsmanship, these places are worth a stop:
Neiliansheng Cloth Shoe Store (内联升)
Established in 1853, this shop is famous for its handmade cloth shoes once tailored for Qing dynasty officials. Today, visitors can browse a wide range of comfortable, modernized versions. If you’re interested in craftsmanship, ask the staff about how the “thousand-layer soles” are made—they may even show you samples of the stitching.
Ruifuxiang Silk Store (瑞蚨祥)
Known nationwide for high-quality silk, Ruifuxiang is a great place to buy qipao fabric, scarves, and tailor-made traditional clothing. If you’re visiting earlier in the day, tailors are usually available for quick consultations. They can explain different silk textures and help you choose fabrics based on color, season, and usage.
Zhangyiyuan Tea Store (张一元)
This century-old tea house offers everything from jasmine tea to Beijing-style tea sets. If you’re unsure what to buy, staff often provide small tea tastings—just ask for a recommendation. Jasmine pearls or floral-scented teas are popular souvenirs, especially for first-time visitors.
Tongrentang Pharmacy (同仁堂)
Founded in 1669, this is China’s most renowned traditional Chinese medicine brand. The Dashilan’er branch has a small exhibition explaining common herbs like ginseng, goji berries, and chrysanthemum flowers. If you’re feeling tired from walking, the herbal tea sold at the counter is surprisingly refreshing.
Food is one of Dashilan’er's biggest highlights. Rather than choosing large restaurants, try the smaller snack stalls hidden in the side alleys:
Tip: Avoid coming right at noon, as snack shops are crowded. Between 10:00–11:00 or 14:00–16:00 is much more comfortable.
Dashilan’er isn't just about eating and shopping—there are many cultural activities you can participate in:
Peking Opera Costume Photo Booth: Some stores allow you to try on traditional opera costumes and take photos. It’s a fun way to experience old Beijing performing arts. Dressing takes about 10 minutes and photo packages are reasonably priced.
Sugar Painting Demonstrations: Skilled artisans create delicate dragon or phoenix candy figures using melted sugar. You can request your zodiac sign, and the process takes less than a minute.
Handicraft Workshops: On weekends, look for pop-up workshops teaching Beijing paper-cutting or clay figurine making (泥人). These activities are ideal if you’re traveling with children.
Dashilan’er’s architecture mixes traditional grey-brick courtyards with restored wooden façades. To capture the best photos:
Come before 9:30 AM for soft light and fewer people.
The area near the old tram tracks makes a great backdrop for vintage-style photos. Many shop signs are hand-painted—zoom in on details to capture the street’s historical charm. Evening visits are also worthwhile. Lanterns illuminate the street after sunset, creating a warm, nostalgic glow that’s perfect for night photography.
Dashilan’er is only a short walk from several major attractions:
Tip: If you plan to explore multiple spots in one day, start at Dashilan’er early, then walk north toward Qianmen and Tiananmen.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening is the most atmospheric, but mornings are quieter.
Avoid Peak Days: Weekends, national holidays, and lunchtime are the most crowded.
Cash vs. Mobile Pay: Most shops accept WeChat/Alipay, but some small snack vendors still prefer cash.
Restrooms: Public toilets are available at both ends of the street; follow the signs along the main walkway.
Accessibility: The main street is flat and wheelchair-friendly, but some side alleys are narrow and uneven.
From on request
From $ 306
From on request
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