Written and updated by Ruqin
Last updated: March 11, 2026
The first time I walked along Wangfujing Street, I noticed how the energy of modern Beijing gathers here. Bright storefronts, large department stores, and constant foot traffic make the street feel lively from morning until late evening. It’s one of those places where you immediately sense the pace of the city.
Today, Wangfujing Pedestrian Street is one of Beijing’s most famous shopping streets. Visitors come for the malls, restaurants, and easy walkable atmosphere right in the city center. In this guide, I’ll show you how to explore Wangfujing Street — including where to shop, what to eat nearby, and which hotels make the best base for staying in the area.
Kind Reminder: Wangfujing Snack Street was closed in March 2020.
1. Wangfujing Street Overview
Located in Beijing’s Dongcheng District, 王府井大街 (Wangfujing Street) is one of the city’s most famous shopping streets. Its history stretches back to the Yuan Dynasty (1267), when it was known as Dingzi Street. Over time the area grew into an important commercial center, and in 1915 it officially became Wangfujing.
Today the street runs about 1,800 meters, connecting East Chang’an Street (东长安街) in the south to Wusi Street (五四大街) in the north. At its heart is Wangfujing Pedestrian Street, a lively walking area filled with department stores, restaurants, and long-established Beijing brands.

You’ll see famous shops like Shengxifu Hat Shop (盛锡福帽店) and the iconic Quanjude Peking Duck (全聚德) alongside modern malls and international brands. That mix of old Beijing tradition and contemporary shopping is exactly what makes Wangfujing so interesting to explore.
The pedestrian street itself is open all day, though most shops and malls typically operate from 10:00 AM to around 10:00 PM.
2. How to Get to Wangfujing Street
One thing I always appreciate about 王府井大街 (Wangfujing Street) is how easy it is to reach. Since it sits right in central Beijing, the subway is usually the fastest and simplest way to get there.
By Subway
Southern Entrance
Take Line 1 or Line 8 to 王府井站 (Wangfujing Station) and exit at E3. You’ll come out right near the southern end of Wangfujing Pedestrian Street (王府井步行街), close to several major shopping malls.
Middle Section
If you want to start near the center of the street, two convenient options are:
- 金鱼胡同站 (Jinyu Hutong Station) on Line 8, Exit B
- 灯市口站 (Dengshikou Station) on Line 5
Northern Entrance
For the northern end, take Line 8 to 中国美术馆站 (National Art Museum Station).

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and DiDi (滴滴出行) ride-hailing are easy to use in Beijing. Just note that traffic around Wangfujing can get quite busy, especially in the evening and on weekends. When possible, I usually recommend the subway — it’s quicker and far less stressful.
3. Wangfujing Street Shopping
When I walk along Wangfujing Pedestrian Street (王府井步行街), what strikes me most is the mix of old Beijing brands and modern shopping malls. You can step out of a sleek fashion mall and, just a few minutes later, find a century-old tea shop. That contrast is exactly what makes shopping here interesting.

Oriental Plaza 东方新天地
Located at the southern end of Wangfujing near East Chang’an Street, 东方新天地 (Oriental Plaza) is one of Beijing’s largest shopping complexes. The mall stretches underground and connects to several office towers and hotels. Inside you’ll find international fashion brands, restaurants, cafés, and cinemas.

Address: No. 1 East Chang’an Street, Dongcheng District
Phone: 010-85188888
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wangfujing Xiyue Shopping Centre 王府井喜悦购物中心
This newer mall feels modern and stylish, with clean architectural lines and trendy brands aimed at younger shoppers. One interesting section is 元市口, a themed area that blends contemporary design with touches of traditional Beijing culture.

Address: 301 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District
Phone: 010-65262686
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Gomei Emporium 工美大厦
If you’re looking for quality souvenirs, 工美大厦 (Gongmei Emporium) is one of the best stops on Wangfujing. The building focuses on Chinese arts and crafts — jade carvings, cloisonné, silk, ceramics, and traditional jewelry. The third floor in particular showcases beautifully crafted pieces.

Address: 200 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65288866
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Shengxifu Hat Shop (王府井盛锡福帽店)
Founded in 1937, 盛锡福帽店 (Shengxifu Hat Shop) is one of Beijing’s classic heritage stores. The shop is famous for its handmade hats, from traditional Chinese styles to modern designs. Even if you don’t plan to buy one, it’s fun to step inside and see the craftsmanship.

Address: No. 196 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65254752
Business Hours: 09:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Wu Yutai Tea (吴裕泰茶庄)
Established in 1887, 吴裕泰茶庄 (Wu Yutai Tea) is a well-known Beijing tea brand. The store sells loose-leaf teas such as jasmine tea, green tea, and oolong, along with teapots and tea accessories. It’s a good place to pick up a thoughtful gift.

Address: 2nd Floor, No. 186 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65254961
Business Hours: 08:30 AM – 9:00 PM
New China Children’s Store (新中国儿童用品商店)
Opened in 1956, the New China Children’s Store is one of the largest specialty stores for children’s products in the country. As the first state-owned children’s products store in New China, it offers a wide range of items including educational toys, baby products, clothing, and more.

Address: No. 168 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65250866
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Beijing Department Store (北京市百货大楼)
The Beijing Department Store, opened in 1955, holds the distinction of being the first large-scale department store built in Beijing after the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Known as the “First Store of New China,” it offers a variety of products ranging from fashion to electronics. A bronze statue of labor model Zhang Binggui (张秉贵) stands in front of the store, serving as a symbol of the cultural heritage of this historic shopping institution.

Address: No. 255 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-85260063
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Beijing apm Shopping Mall (王府井amp购物中心)
Developed by Hong Kong’s Sun Hung Kai Properties, Beijing apm Shopping Mall is one of the city’s most fashionable shopping destinations. The mall is known for its trendy atmosphere and focus on attracting a youthful crowd. The name “apm” stands for “AM to PM,” reflecting the mall’s extended hours and emphasis on both daytime shopping and nighttime entertainment. The mall offers a variety of high-end fashion brands, food courts, and a lively ambiance that makes it one of the hottest spots in Wangfujing.

Address: No. 138 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-58176997
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Yintai in88 (王府井银泰in88)
Yintai in88 is a premium shopping center offering high-end fashion, lifestyle products, and art. The mall is part of the China Yintai Group and features a sleek, modern design that emphasizes luxury and refined taste. It’s a great place to shop for upscale fashion, home decor, and lifestyle items, blending cutting-edge fashion with a creative art vibe.

Address: No. 88 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District
Phone: 010-59785114
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
4. Wangfujing Street Restaurants
After a few hours of walking and shopping on 王府井步行街 (Wangfujing Pedestrian Street), most travelers start thinking about food. Fortunately, this area has plenty of solid dining options—from classic Beijing dishes to lively hotpot restaurants.
Kind reminder: the old Wangfujing Snack Street (王府井小吃街) closed in March 2020, so the food scene here now centers mainly around restaurants and mall dining areas.
Haiwan Ju (Wangfujing Department Store) – 海碗居(王府井百货大楼店)
If you want to try a true Beijing comfort dish, I often recommend 海碗居 (Haiwan Ju). The restaurant recreates an old Beijing atmosphere with wooden benches, square tables, and murals showing scenes from traditional city life.
Their specialty is Zhajiangmian (炸酱面)—handmade noodles topped with savory soybean paste sauce and served with shredded cucumber, bean sprouts, radish, and other fresh vegetables. Other popular dishes include Jingjiang Shredded Pork (京酱肉丝) and mustard-flavored cold dishes.
Address: 6th Floor, Wangfujing Department Store, No. 255 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65262118
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Donglaishun Hot Pot (Wangfujing) – 王府井东来顺
Founded in 1903, 东来顺 (Donglaishun) is one of Beijing’s best-known halal restaurants. It’s especially famous for its lamb hot pot, where thin slices of lamb are quickly cooked in a clear copper pot broth.

Founded in 1903, 东来顺 (Donglaishun) is one of Beijing’s best-known halal restaurants. It’s especially famous for its lamb hot pot, where thin slices of lamb are quickly cooked in a clear copper pot broth.
The flavor is simple but satisfying, and the restaurant’s long history adds a sense of tradition to the meal. It’s a great choice if you want to experience the classic Beijing-style mutton hotpot.
Address: No. 198 Wangfujing Street (North side of Wangfujing Gongmei Emporium)
Phone: 010-65139661
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM; 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant (Wangfujing) – 王府井全聚德烤鸭店
When visitors ask where to try Peking Duck, 全聚德 (Quanjude) is often the first name that comes up. Established in 1864, it remains one of Beijing’s most famous roast duck restaurants.

The duck arrives with beautifully crisp skin and tender meat, served with thin pancakes, sweet bean sauce, scallions, and cucumber. Watching the chef carve the duck at your table is part of the experience.
Address: No. 9 Shaifu Garden Alley (帅府园), Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65228384
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Haidilao Hot Pot (Wangfujing Danyao) – 海底捞(王府井丹耀店)
For those craving a fun and interactive dining experience, Haidilao Hot Pot (海底捞) is the place to be. Known for its signature Sichuan-style hot pot, Haidilao offers a distinctive dining experience where diners can enjoy cooking their own ingredients in a bubbling pot of spicy broth. The restaurant prides itself on providing outstanding customer service, going above and beyond to make every guest feel special.
Located on the 3rd floor of Danyao Building in Wangfujing, this Haidilao branch has a reputation for offering not only delicious food but also excellent service. With features like personalized dipping sauces and complimentary snacks, Haidilao is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Address: 3rd Floor, Danyao Building, No. 176 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 85895994
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
6. Historical Buildings and Attractions on Wangfujing Pedestrian Street
Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing’s most vibrant and commercial districts, is also a treasure trove of history and culture. It is not just a shopping haven but also a place steeped in rich cultural heritage.
St. Joseph’s Church (Wangfujing) – 王府井天主教堂
Also known as Dongtang (东堂) or St. Joseph’s Church, this magnificent Catholic church is one of the four major Catholic churches in Beijing. Originally built in 1655 during the Qing Dynasty, it was founded by Italian missionary Matteo Ricci and Portuguese missionary João de Almeida. The church has a tumultuous history, having been destroyed three times during the reigns of Emperors Kangxi, Jiaqing, and Guangxu. Despite these setbacks, it was reconstructed in 1904 during the reign of Emperor Guangxu, making it a testament to both Beijing’s history and the persistence of its religious communities.

The church’s architecture blends both Western and Chinese elements, with its towering spires and grand design offering a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection. It stands as a symbol of Beijing’s multicultural and religious history.
Address: No. 74 East of Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65240634
Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
The Former Residence of Lao She – 老舍故居
The Former Residence of Lao She (老舍故居) holds a special place in the heart of literary history. Located at No. 19 Fengfu Hutong, just off Wangfujing Street, this was the home of Lao She, one of China’s most beloved writers, from 1950 to 1966. Now transformed into the Lao She Memorial Museum, the residence provides insight into the life and works of the author, who is best known for classics like Teahouse and Four Generations Under One Roof.
The house is a traditional Beijing Siheyuan (courtyard house), offering a glimpse into the architecture and lifestyle of old Beijing. With 19 rooms spread across a 400-square-meter space, the house was where Lao She wrote most of his later works. Visitors can explore rooms dedicated to his life, family, and literary legacy, making it an essential stop for those interested in Chinese literature.
Address: No. 19 Fengfu Hutong, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Phone: 010-65142612, 010-65599218
Opening Hours (Tuesday to Sunday): 09:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Last entry at 4:30 PM
Beijing People’s Art Theatre – 北京人民艺术剧院
Founded in 1952, the Beijing People’s Art Theatre (北京人民艺术剧院), abbreviated as Beijing Renyi, is China’s first professional art troupe. Located at No. 22 Wangfujing Street, this prestigious theatre has long been at the forefront of spoken drama in China. Known for its high-quality productions, Beijing Renyi has played a major role in shaping the country’s modern theatrical scene.

The theatre’s main performance venue, the Capital Theatre, established in 1954, is one of the largest and most grandiose in the country. Its imposing architecture, covering an area of 15,000 square meters, showcases a dignified and ancient style, reflecting the importance of the art form in Chinese culture.
Address: No. 22 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65246666
Business Hours: 08:30 AM – 8:30 PM
The Commercial Press – 商务印书馆
Located at No. 36 Wangfujing Street, the Commercial Press (商务印书馆) is a pioneer in China’s modern publishing industry. Founded in 1897 in Shanghai and later relocated to Beijing in 1954, the Commercial Press holds the distinction of being China’s first modern publishing institution. It marks the beginning of China’s modern publishing era and has played a significant role in shaping Chinese literature and education.

The Commercial Press houses the Commercial Press History Exhibition Hall, which spans over 400 square meters and offers visitors a deep dive into its 126-year-long history. The exhibition showcases significant cultural publications, rare books, and the evolution of Chinese literature through the decades.
Address: No. 36 Wangfujing Street
Phone: 010-65252026
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
National Art Museum of China – 中国美术馆
The National Art Museum of China (中国美术馆) is the only national-level art museum in China, and one of the largest and most prestigious in the country. Established in 1958 and officially opened in 1963, the museum’s grand building spans over 18,000 square meters. It is located just north of Wangfujing Street, making it an easy stop for anyone interested in exploring the artistic heritage of China.

The museum houses over 110,000 pieces of art, ranging from ancient Chinese masterpieces to contemporary works, as well as a rich collection of foreign artworks.
Address: No. 1, 5th May Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Phone: 010-64011816
Opening Hours: 09:00 AM – 4:00 PM
7. Stroll along Wangfujing Street at Night
As night falls, Wangfujing Pedestrian Street transforms into a glittering hub of activity, reminiscent of Times Square in New York. Neon signs flash above, casting a colorful glow over the throngs of shoppers and tourists.
High-end boutiques, global brands, and department stores line the street, offering the latest fashions and luxury goods. The air buzzes with energy as visitors explore the vibrant mix of modern retail, entertainment, and dining. Wangfujing is where Beijing’s cosmopolitan spirit meets its rich cultural heritage.
8. Wangfujing Street Hotels
Wangfujing is one of Beijing’s most vibrant and convenient areas, perfect for visitors seeking a mix of luxury, culture, and accessibility. It offers a range of accommodations, from high-end hotels to boutique options, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

| Hotel Name | Features |
|---|---|
Grand Hyatt Beijing 北京东方君悦大酒店 | The Beijing Grand Hyatt is a luxury hotel managed by the Hyatt Hotel Group, adjacent to the Wangfujing Pedestrian Street. |
| Beijing Hotel 北京饭店 | The Beijing Hotel is located at 33 East Chang’an Street, to the east of Wangfujing Street, and to the west, it faces Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. |
| The Peninsula Beijing 北京王府半岛酒店 | Offers top-notch amenities and impeccable service, perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious experience. |
| Sunworld Dynasty Hotel 天伦王朝酒店 | The Sunworld Dynasty Hotel is a luxury five-star hotel situated on the east side of Wangfujing Street. |
| Sunworld Hotel 北京天伦松鹤酒店 | The Beijing Sunworld Hotel is located at the intersection of Wangfujing Street and Dengshikou Street, adjacent to the Forbidden City. |
| Waldorf Astoria Beijing 北京华尔道夫酒店 | The Waldorf Astoria Beijing is located at 5-15 Jin Yu Hutong in the bustling heart of Wangfujing. |
| Guo Ji Yi Yuan Hotel 北京国际艺苑大酒店 | The hotel features 359 well-designed, comfortable, and spacious rooms. |
| Hilton Beijing Wangfujing 北京王府井希尔顿酒店 | The Hilton Beijing Wangfujing is located at 8 Wangfujing East Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, right next to Wangfujing Street. |
| Novotel Beijing Peace 北京诺富特和平酒店 | A comfortable and affordable option, offering excellent value for both business and leisure travelers. |
| Atour Hotel of Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing Pedestrian Street 北京天安门王府井步行街亚朵酒店 | The Atour Hotel on Wangfujing Street, Beijing, is located at 241 Wangfujing Street. |
JIANGUO Hidden Hotel Beijing Tian An Men Wangfujing 建国·璞隐酒店(北京天安门王府井店) | Jianguo Hidden Hotel Wangfujing is located at 19 Jin Yu Hutong, just a few steps away from Wangfujing Shopping Street. |
| Beijing Renaissance Hotel 金茂北京王府井万丽酒店 | Located on Wangfujing Street, close to the subway station. |
| Regent Beijing 北京丽晶酒店 | Just 370 meters from the subway station on Wangfujing Street. Comfortable rooms and convenient location. |
| Legendale Hotel Beijing 北京励骏酒 | A five-star hotel located on Jinbao Street in Dongcheng District, Beijing. |
| Empark Prime Hotel Beijing 北京华侨大厦睿世酒店 | Situated on No.2 Wangfujing Street, with a prime location and dining options nearby. |
| Bolly Wood Hotel 宝欐酒店(北京王府井故宫店) | Address: 189 Dongsi S St, Dongcheng, Beijing,Conveniently close to Wangfujing Street. |
| 161 Hotel Beijing 北京161客栈 | Located on Dongsi South Street. Features a stylish ambiance, spacious rooms, and complete amenities. |
These hotels not only enjoy prime locations and convenient transportation but also offer complete facilities and exceptional service to meet the needs of different travelers.
Wangfujing Street: Frequently Asked Questions for Foreign Travelers
1) What is Wangfujing Street known for?
Wangfujing Street (王府井大街) is one of Beijing’s most famous shopping streets. It’s known for its lively pedestrian area, large shopping malls, and a few historic Beijing brands that have been operating here for decades.
2) Where is Wangfujing Street located?
Wangfujing Street (王府井大街) sits in Dongcheng District (东城区), about a 15–20 minute walk east of the Forbidden City (故宫). The easiest way to get there is by subway: Line 1 or Line 8 to Wangfujing Station (王府井站).
3) What can I buy at Wangfujing?
You’ll find everything from international fashion brands to Chinese tea, books, and souvenirs. Classic Beijing stores like Wu Yutai Tea (吴裕泰茶庄) and Shengxifu Hat Shop (盛锡福帽店) are great places for local specialties.
4) Is Wangfujing Snack Street still open?
No. The old Wangfujing Snack Street (王府井小吃街) closed in 2020 and is no longer operating.
5) Are there halal or vegetarian options nearby?
Yes. Restaurants like Donglaishun Hot Pot (东来顺) offer halal dishes, and many restaurants inside the shopping malls provide vegetarian-friendly options.
6) Are there good hotels near Wangfujing?
Yes. The Wangfujing area has many hotels within walking distance, ranging from luxury properties to mid-range and budget accommodations.
7) Is Wangfujing Street lively at night?
Yes. Wangfujing Pedestrian Street (王府井步行街) becomes especially lively in the evening when shop signs light up and visitors stroll through the area after dinner.
8) How long should I spend at Wangfujing?
Most travelers spend 2–3 hours exploring the street. If you plan to shop, dine, and browse several malls, you may want to allow half a day.
9) Is Wangfujing touristy or authentic?
It’s popular with visitors, but locals also come here for shopping and dining. The mix of historic stores and modern malls reflects today’s Beijing.
10) What attractions are near Wangfujing Street?
Nearby attractions include Tiananmen Square (天安门广场), the Forbidden City (故宫), and Jingshan Park (景山公园).
11) Is Wangfujing a pedestrian-only street?
The central stretch, Wangfujing Pedestrian Street (王府井步行街), is car-free and easy to explore on foot. Side streets around it still allow traffic.
12) What’s the difference between Wangfujing and Qianmen Street?
Wangfujing Street (王府井大街) focuses on modern shopping malls and international brands. Qianmen Street (前门大街), near Tiananmen Square, has restored historic buildings, traditional shops, and a stronger old-Beijing
Wangfujing Street is one of those places where you can easily feel the rhythm of modern Beijing. Between the busy malls, long-standing local shops, and steady stream of visitors, the street captures a lively mix of tradition and contemporary city life.
If it’s your first time in Beijing, spending a few hours on Wangfujing Pedestrian Street is almost a rite of passage. Come for the shopping, stay for the food, and enjoy the simple pleasure of wandering one of the city’s most famous streets.
About the Author
Ruqin is the founder of Ruqintravel.com and has spent more than four decades working in China’s travel industry. Drawing on hands-on experience in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, he personally researches and updates each guide to help international travelers navigate China with confidence.
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Guijie Street (Ghost Street) in Beijing: Map & Food Guide
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Huguosi Street, Beijing (Huguosi Snack Street): A Visitor’s Guide
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Xianyukou Street, Beijing: What to Eat, Shop & See Before You Go
Qianmen Street Beijing: Map, Food, Shopping & Hotels
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