The Pearl Market or Hongqiao Market, Beijing is popular among tourists for the prices at which things are sold here. The name �Pearl Market�, is a bit of a misnomer as everything from pocket knifes, to binoculars to handbags to electronic goods. The Hongqiao or pearl market is located in the heart of the city beside the Temple of Heaven, which makes it a favorite among foreign tourists. The pearl market has 5 floors. The pearl shops which gives the market its name is situated on the top floor of the market.

The ground floor of the pearl market has shops selling electronic goods. Fake watches, equipments for photography, and several other tit bits like pocket knives and thermos are on sale in this floor. The second floor is known for its amazing collection of fashionable garments and accessories for both men and women. You can find some excellent shoes, bags and sporting goods in this floor of the Hongqiang market. Like most other Chinese market, the pearl market is also famous for selling fake items. So it will be better for you if you can bargain your way through the items you want to buy.

The top floor has shops selling souvenirs, jewelery and most importantly pearl. The pearls on sale here are fresh water pearls and are of lower quality than the salt water ones. But, nonetheless, nowhere in world can you get pearls at such ridiculously low prices! What one should remember while buying these pearls, is to bargain.

Tourist Attractions in Beijing

Hutong