Liulichang Cultural Street

Liulichang ('Glazed Tile Factory' Street, named for the Yuan-era kiln that supplied tiles for imperial buildings) has been Beijing's premier cultural goods market since the Qing dynasty, when traveling literati and exam-taking scholars came here for books, art supplies, and antiques. The 750-meter street was restored in the 1980s to its early-Qing appearance — gray brick, painted wooden signs, and lanterned shopfronts. The shops sell calligraphy brushes (毛笔), inkstones (砚台), traditional rice paper (宣纸), ancient books and rubbings, seal carvings, and Chinese paintings. Rongbaozhai (荣宝斋), the most famous shop, has been in business since 1672 and is China's top dealer of antique scrolls and traditional art supplies. Less touristy than Wangfujing, more atmospheric — best for shoppers interested in Chinese culture, calligraphy practice, or unique gifts. Walking distance from Qianmen (5 min) and Tiananmen (10 min).