Despite its name, within this mall are shops selling all manner of electronics, watches, clothing, handbags, suitcases, and, of course, jewelry, including hundreds of pearls in every conceivable shape, size, and color. You can buy jewelry already on display—necklaces, earrings, brooches, bracelets, etc.—or choose your pearls and have something custom made. Unless the design is very complicated, a pearl necklace or bracelet made to your specifications can generally be done on the spot or within an hour or two. Hongqiao Market is a popular place for buying souvenirs, especially tea sets, calligraphy scrolls, paper fans, and chopsticks. Bargaining is essential here, particularly for jewelry. Note that there is a market of the same name and style in Shanghai.
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Sharpen Your Bargaining Skills
The days of bargaining for fake-label goods is almost drawing to a close in Beijing—but Hongqiao still persists in this changing consumer landscape. Although pearls are obviously the main draw, you will find cheap electronics and tacky sino-souvenirs on the lower floors. Those knowledgeable about pearls, whether freshwater, saltwater, or totally fake, will find plenty to pick through on the upper floors. Every conceivable color, from eggshell white to luminous black, are hawked, but don’t expect a good deal unless you are truly an expert.
Sharpen Your Bargaining Skills
The days of bargaining for fake-label goods are almost drawing to a close in Beijing—but Hongqiao still persists in this changing consumer landscape. Although pearls are obviously the main draw, you will find cheap electronics and tacky Sino-souvenirs on the lower floors. Those knowledgeable about pearls, whether freshwater, saltwater, or totally fake, will find plenty to pick through on the upper floors. Every conceivable color, from eggshell white to luminous black, are hawked, but don’t expect a good deal unless you are truly an expert.
