Souvenirs & What to Buy in Beijing, China

Beijing, China, Beijing, Shopping & Local Markets, Souvenirs & What to Buy

Souvenirs & What to Buy in Beijing, China

Cloisonné (Jingtailan)

1. Cloisonné (Jingtailan)

Cloisonné is an ancient Chinese art that combines copper and porcelain-like material to create stunning enamelware. Known for intricate designs and vibrant colors, it's perfect as a decorative piece or jewelry. This craft has been perfected in Beijing, offering authentic and high-quality items.
  • Artistry: Look for the complexity and detail in the design.
  • Authenticity: Ensure it's made in Beijing to support local craftsmen.
  • Fragility: Handle with care, as it can be delicate.
Peking Opera Masks

2. Peking Opera Masks

These masks are cultural symbols, each with unique colors and designs representing different characters from China's famous Peking Opera. They're a great way to take home a piece of China's rich theatrical tradition. Perfect for display, they are meaningful conversation starters.
  • Material: Choose between paper-mâché or resin.
  • Design: Pick designs that intrigue you, each telling a different story.
  • Origin: Verify it's a genuine Peking Opera mask from Beijing.
Silk Products

3. Silk Products

Beijing offers high-quality silk products, from traditional cheongsams to luxurious scarves. Silk represents China's ancient textile industry and is celebrated for its texture and dyeing art. It's a practical yet elegant gift or keepsake.
  • Texture: Authentic silk should feel smooth and soft.
  • Design: Look for traditional patterns or modern styles.
  • Quality: Check the thickness and stitching for durability.
Peking Duck Flavored Snacks

4. Peking Duck Flavored Snacks

Bring home a taste of Beijing with packaged Peking Duck-flavored snacks. These chips or crackers offer the distinctive savory taste of Beijing's signature dish. They're an excellent alternative if you can't take the real dish home.
  • Flavor: Confirm it's Peking Duck flavored.
  • Shelf Life: Check expiration dates for freshness.
  • Packaging: Ensure it's securely sealed for travel.
Chinese Calligraphy Sets

5. Chinese Calligraphy Sets

These sets typically include brushes, paper, ink, and inkstone, allowing you to practice an art reflecting the beauty of Chinese script. It represents the cultural importance of calligraphy in Chinese history. Ideal for art enthusiasts who wish to connect with the culture.
  • Quality of Brushes: Ensure the bristles are suitable for calligraphy.
  • Ink Block: Look for traditional solid ink blocks, not bottled ink.
  • Complete Set: Verify all necessary tools are included.
Tea Sets and Chinese Tea

6. Tea Sets and Chinese Tea

Beijing offers exquisite porcelain or clay tea sets accompanied by premium teas like Jasmine and Pu'er. Tea drinking is ingrained in Chinese culture, making this a meaningful memento or gift. The set brings a piece of Chinese tradition to your home.
  • Material: Decide between porcelain and clay for different tastes.
  • Tea Type: Explore different types that suit your preference.
  • Size: Consider space and usage for the set in your home.
Chinese Knot Decorations

7. Chinese Knot Decorations

These are traditional decorative items symbolizing good luck and prosperity. These intricately braided items are often red, an auspicious color in Chinese culture. They're lightweight, making them easy to pack in your luggage.
  • Symbolism: Choose knots that hold specific meanings that appeal to you.
  • Size: Various sizes available depending on display preferences.
  • Color: Look for colors that hold personal significance or match your decor.
Jade Jewelry

8. Jade Jewelry

Jade has been valued in China for centuries for its beauty and supposed protective properties. Jade items from Beijing vary from bracelets to necklaces. This is a great souvenir if you wish to bring home a piece of China’s spiritual and aesthetic tradition.
  • Color: Ensure the jade has a rich, even color.
  • Clarity: Look for pieces without imperfections.
  • Weight: Authentic jade is heavier than imitation stones.
Red Lanterns

9. Red Lanterns

These lanterns are more than just lighting; they represent happiness and celebrations in Chinese culture. Popular around festivals, they make a colorful and cheerful home decoration. They are typically available in collapsible forms to fit easily in your luggage.
  • Material Quality: Choose durable materials for longevity.
  • Design: Opt for designs that resonate with celebration and joy.
  • Packaging: Check it's compact for easy transport.
Chinese Paper Cuttings

10. Chinese Paper Cuttings

These are intricate designs cut from red paper, often used for decoration during festivals or celebrations. They symbolize luck and happiness and can be displayed in windows or on walls. Bringing home a paper cutting is an affordable way to capture Chinese artistry.
  • Design Complexity: Choose detailed and unique designs.
  • Fragility: Handle with care to avoid tearing.
  • Cultural Significance: Consider the meaning behind the motifs.
Blue and White Porcelain

11. Blue and White Porcelain

Beijing offers fine blue and white porcelain, reminiscent of classic Chinese aesthetics. These pieces are elegantly decorated with floral and landscape patterns. They're ideal for collectors or anyone wanting to own a piece of Chinese history.
  • Patterns: Look for traditional patterns unique to each piece.
  • Authenticity: Ensure it's handcrafted for higher value.
  • Fragile: Ensure proper packaging during transport.
Beijing-style Embroidery (Jingxiu)

12. Beijing-style Embroidery (Jingxiu)

Unique to Beijing, this artform involves vivid and intricate needlework on silk, creating stunning visual effects. Piece like this boasts the high skill level of Beijing artisans. It's a wonderful keepsake for art lovers interested in textiles.
  • Detail: Examine the stitching complexity.
  • Color Vibrancy: Choose vibrant designs.
  • Care: Requires delicate handling and storage.
Snuff Bottles

13. Snuff Bottles

These miniature bottles, used historically to hold powdered tobacco, are now cherished for their art and craftsmanship. They are often made from glass, porcelain, or jade and meticulously painted from the inside. Collectors would appreciate their historical and artistic value.
  • Material Type: Decide based on interest; each has unique features.
  • Artwork: Look for detailed inside-painting work.
  • Size: Compact and easy to carry home.
Chinese Folding Fans

14. Chinese Folding Fans

These beautifully crafted fans are not only practical in hot weather but also serve as decorative pieces. They often feature traditional art, landscapes, or calligraphy. Fans are great souvenirs that reflect the elegance and grace of Chinese culture.
  • Material: Silk or paper versions are available.
  • Designs: Select one that appeals to your aesthetic sense.
  • Portability: They're lightweight and easy to fit in luggage.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Products

15. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Products

Known for their natural ingredients, TCM products can range from herbal teas to health tonics. Many believe in their effectiveness for wellness and health, making them both practical and culturally interesting. Be sure to consult with a TCM practitioner if you're new to these remedies.
  • Ingredients: Ensure familiarity and safety of contents.
  • Usage: Understand the product’s intended use.
  • Certification: Products should be certified for safety.
Xiushui Silk Market Souvenirs

16. Xiushui Silk Market Souvenirs

This market is known for a vast array of silk products, accessories, and souvenirs. The items are usually customizable and cater to various tastes. It’s a bustling place ideal for bargain hunters eager for unique finds.
  • Variety: Wide range available, from clothing to home goods.
  • Bargaining: Be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Authenticity: Ensure product authenticity amidst diverse options.
Miniature Beijing Opera Figures

17. Miniature Beijing Opera Figures

These artistic replicas capture the essence of the characters from Beijing Opera in miniature form. They're intricately designed with fine details and vibrant colors. Perfect for collectors of cultural memorabilia.
  • Detail & Craft: Ensure figures have intricate details.
  • Material Durability: Made from ceramics or other strong materials.
  • Set Completeness: Consider buying a complete set for variety.
Zhongguo Red Helicopter Seeds

18. Zhongguo Red Helicopter Seeds

These decorative seeds are fashioned into unique patterns and often used for jewelry and home decor. They represent luck and are specific to China, making them distinct souvenirs. Great for those looking into eco-friendly and sustainable products.
  • Pattern: Look for unique designs.
  • Cultural Symbolism: Appreciate the meaning of luck associated.
  • Eco-friendliness: Opt for sustainably sourced options.
Local Crafts from Ancient Streets (Nanluoguxiang)

19. Local Crafts from Ancient Streets (Nanluoguxiang)

This area is known for craft shops offering handmade items like leather goods, wood carvings, and modern art. A walk here provides a chance to find unique, handcrafted Beijing art. It’s also a way to support local craftspeople.
  • Craft Variety: Explore different types of crafts available.
  • Support Local Artists: Purchasing helps sustain traditional industries.
  • Uniqueness: Each piece of craft is unique in its making.
Chinese Chess Sets (Xiangqi)

20. Chinese Chess Sets (Xiangqi)

These sets reflect the strategy game loved by many in China, offering insights into Chinese culture and tactics. The traditional sets make for a great souvenir for board game enthusiasts. Owning a Xiangqi set allows you to learn and enjoy a piece of Chinese leisure culture.
  • Material Choice: Choose from wood, plastic, or stone.
  • Portability: Ensure sets are suitable for travel.
  • Design Intricacy: Look for detailed craftsmanship.