I was in Beijing in November and am going back in two weeks. I have a question about shopping. I went to the silk market, pearl market and night market. The question is, it seems so much is made in China, but I only saw tons of fakes. I know many things are made in China, Brighton belts, Abercrombie.... Where can I find a listing of good quality stores, like factory outlet stores for these companies in Beijing?

Good question Cindy. I know Beijing fairly well and have lots of friends there. I suspect that if outlet stores existed I would have heard of them long ago. <BR> <BR>As you probably know, even the highest quality goods made in China cannot be found for sale there as they are just cost prohibitive to the average Chinese. <BR> <BR>Try the Xidan Department Store for stuff. Also, another free market you didn't mention is the Russian Market on the west side of Ritan Park.

Factory outlet stores aren't in China yet, but it's probably only a matter of time. Probably Silk Alley is the closest thing to that, and bargain like crazy to get a reasonable price if you find something you like. Xidan is another good place to buy clothes; usual department stores and stalls tucked away down an alley. Good luck! <BR> <BR>Travel to My China: http://www.webbworks.com/users/cheryl

Can you tell me about where Xidan Department store is? Could you tell me a little about it. <BR> <BR>

I also was wondering about the shopping. We love quality, but also would like a place to find them other then the outdoor markets. Where is Xidan located in Beijing? Does anyone know of a nice hotel near the Pearl market?

Also try the Dirt Market. Don't know exactly where it is in Beijing, but maybe the hotel can direct your cab driver to it. No tourists there and good prices with bargaining.

Xidan Street is perpendicular to Chang'an/Jianguomen wai (the main east/west street that Tiananmen Square is on, about a mile west of Tiananmen. Xidan is the business district in Beijing. Go to Xidan and turn right (north) and you will find the stores.