The Summer Palace in Beijing is not only a stunning historical and cultural site but also offers visitors a chance to shop for unique souvenirs that reflect its rich heritage. Here are the top 5 best places for shopping at and around the Summer Palace:
1. The Front Gate Shops (Main Entrance)
- Location: Near the main entrance of the Summer Palace, close to the East Gate.
- What to Buy: This area has several small shops offering traditional Chinese crafts, including silk products, calligraphy sets, porcelain items, and wooden carvings.
- Why It's Great: These shops offer a variety of souvenirs that make for great mementos of your visit, and you can find items that are reflective of Chinese art and history. It’s a convenient spot for tourists entering and exiting the palace grounds.
2. Kunming Lake Area (Near the Boat Dock)
- Location: Close to the boat dock along Kunming Lake, where many tourists take boat rides around the lake.
- What to Buy: This area has stores that specialize in art prints, tea sets, and local handicrafts. You’ll also find traditional Chinese clothing like silk robes or qipao.
- Why It's Great: Shopping here gives you the chance to pick up elegant tea sets and other luxurious souvenirs while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Kunming Lake. Many shops near the lake offer a scenic view, making the shopping experience more enjoyable.
3. Long Corridor Souvenir Shops
- Location: The Long Corridor is a famous architectural feature at the Summer Palace, featuring a long walkway decorated with painted beams and columns.
- What to Buy: Along the corridor, you can find painted fans, traditional Chinese paper cuts, scrolls, and artworks. There are also vendors offering miniature replicas of the Summer Palace.
- Why It's Great: The Long Corridor is not just a place to admire historical artwork; it’s also an ideal spot to buy high-quality souvenirs with a cultural touch. It’s one of the best places to pick up items that reflect the intricate art of the Summer Palace itself.
4. The Marble Boat Area
- Location: Near the iconic Marble Boat (also known as the Boat of Purity and Ease) located on Kunming Lake.
- What to Buy: This area has several shops selling hand-painted ceramics, jade carvings, and gold-plated figurines. These items are reflective of the luxury and elegance associated with the Qing dynasty.
- Why It's Great: The Marble Boat is one of the most photographed areas of the Summer Palace, and the nearby shops offer unique luxury souvenirs that you won’t find in other areas of the palace. It’s a great place to pick up something special to commemorate your visit.
5. Suzhou Street
- Location: Situated within the Summer Palace grounds, this Venetian-style street replicates the traditional style of Suzhou.
- What to Buy: Handcrafted goods, antique-style jewelry, miniature boats, paintings, and local snacks can be found here. The street is lined with traditional Chinese-style buildings and shops.
- Why It's Great: Suzhou Street is unique because it is modeled after the waterways of Suzhou, providing a charming environment for shopping. It’s one of the best places to experience the blend of culture, art, and local goods. Additionally, you can find rare and beautiful items here that reflect the local heritage.
General Shopping Tips:
- Bargaining: While many stores around the Summer Palace are fixed-price, small street vendors may allow for some bargaining. Don’t hesitate to ask for a discount.
- Quality: Be sure to check the quality of items, especially for intricate products like jade, porcelain, and silk.
- Cash and Credit Cards: While some shops accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash in Chinese yuan for smaller purchases or street vendors.
These shopping areas within and around the Summer Palace provide a wide variety of items that will make your visit even more memorable. Whether you're looking for luxury goods, traditional crafts, or small mementos, these spots offer plenty of options.
