Wangfujing Business District

Wangfujing Street, south from the East Chang’an Avenue, north to the National Art Museum of China, stretching about 1600 meters long, is the most famous commercial district in Beijing. A wide variety of products, such as general merchandise, hardware, clothing, shoes and hats, diamonds, gold and silver jewelry can be found in Wangfujing. It is known as “Golden Street,” making fast money. In September 2012, the staff of Wangfujing construction management office revealed that Wangfujing Street would be expanded by 40% in 5 years.

Wangfujing Street was named in 1915. Wangfujing was just an unknown village in Liao and Jin dynasties. After Kublai Khan chose Beijing as the capital, the little village began to get busier, and got the name “Dingzijie” (T-shaped road). During the reign of Yongle Emperor, ten palaces (wangfu in Chinese) were built in this area, so it was renamed “Shiwangfu” or “Shiwangfu Street”. After the demise of the Ming Dynasty, the palaces were also abandoned. Then people call it Wangfu Street.

During the reign of Emperor Guangxu and Xuantong, this area thrived once again. Many vendors and shops appeared on both sides of the street, as well as a “government office,” and it became a well-known district. In 1915, when Beiyang Government’s Ministry of the interior drew “Detail View of Beijing” this street was divided into three segments: the northern section called Wangfu Avenue, the middle section called Bamiancao and the southern section called Wangfujin Avenue for having a sweet well (on the west side of the street, today’s DatianshuijinHutong). Later, Wangfujing was gradually used as a name for the whole street.

Opening Hours:

Peak season: all day

Off season: all day

Scenic Spot Tel: not available

Best touring time: the whole year

Viewing time: 2 hours

Address: Dongcheng District, Beijing