You may be curious that what ghost markets are, and what is sold in ghost markets. They are night antique markets!
History
Ghost markets in Beijing originated in the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) in Beijing, and soon reached their peak at the end of the dynasty. Also called night markets, they were organized and supported by the rich and royal families, who exchanged their antiques or precious possessions for money at night.
This traditional folk culture has developed for many years, and has spread to Tianjin. In 1992 many new ghost markets sprung up in Beijing, including Huaweiqiao Ghost Market, Beijing Antique Book Market, and Panjiayuan Antiques Market.
Panjiayuan Antiques Market
Panjiayuan Antiques Market is one of the most typical ghost markets in Beijing. It is also one of the most popular and recommended antiques markets in Beijing. It covers a large area and is divided into six large sections. It is not only the local antique lovers' hub, but also spoken highly of by foreign travelers, such as the ex-president of America Clinton, and the prime minister of Greece.
You can find all kinds of Chinese antiques on sale among the thousands of stalls in the market. Paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, furniture, coins, army surplus, Buddhist artifacts and much more. It attracts numerous travelers and antique lovers every day.
If you're not an expert, simply wandering around the stalls is just as much fun! But if you are an experienced expert in selecting antiques, you can probably find something valuable in the market. Don't forget to bargain and get there earlier!
Travel Essentials
- Location: about 100 meters west of Panjiayuan Bridge
- Open: Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 5:30pm; weekends: 4:30am – 5:30pm
- Entrance fee: free
- Buses: Take bus 34, 36, 51, 99, 300, or 674 to Panjiayuan (潘家园).
Beijing Antique Books Market
Antique books are an important part of Chinese traditional folk culture, which record big historical events and famous stories, like "the four classics". They were the favorites of children in past decades, and have now become the treasures of collectors.
Beijing Antique Books Market is a large antique books market located in Chaoyang District, with plenty of stalls selling different kinds of books, magazines, newspapers, paintings, and calligraphy. If you don't find a prize in Panjiayuan, Beijing Antique Books Market may fulfill your desire.
Travel Essentials
- Location: China's Harmony Culture Creation Garden, Chaoyang District
- Buses: Take bus 455 to Nanhuayuan (南花园); 541 to Gaobeidian East (高碑店东); 11 or 363 to Guanyintang (观音堂).
Other Ghost Markets
As a cultural center in China, Beijing has many antiques markets, such as Liulichang Cultural Street, Baoguosi Cultural Collection Market, and Wudaokou Antique Books Market.
Planning a cultural trip to Beijing is special and meaningful. China Highlights can at no extra cost assist in tailor-making your own tour of Beijing.
