Hi, I’m Alex Chen, a Chinese traveler with a deep passion for independent travel. Rather than fancy hotels or luxury itineraries, I prefer a subway ticket and a camera to explore the most authentic corners of a city. The first time I stepped into Xidan Commercial Street, I unexpectedly experienced a unique blend of modern energy and old Beijing charm. Here, you can shop, taste street food, and immerse yourself in local culture. It’s the perfect place for budget-conscious travelers like me who value experience over expense.

Summary

Xidan Commercial Street Overview

Xidan Commercial Street is located in Beijing’s Xicheng District and is one of the city’s most renowned shopping centers. The pedestrian street features architecture inspired by the Ming and Qing dynasties. The streets are spacious and bright, ideal for both shopping and relaxing. You can sample a variety of Beijing delicacies here, including hot pot lamb, douzhi’er (fermented mung bean drink), and deep-fried sausage. You’ll also find unique souvenirs like embroidery, jade jewelry, and calligraphy artworks.

  • Address: 176 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Suggested visiting time: 3–4 hours
  • Best seasons to visit: All year round
Xidan Commercial Street entrance view in Beijing

Top Things to Do in Xidan Commercial Street

Xidan Commercial Street features numerous malls, and it’s easy for first-time visitors to feel overwhelmed. So here’s a summary of five must-visit spots.

What to Buy on Xidan Commercial Street

Xidan Joy City

Joy City Mall at Xidan Commercial Street
  • Why Visit: This is the most popular and versatile mall in the area. Possibly the best place to shop in Xidan, it spans 11 levels from B2 to the 9th floor. It’s a one-stop shopping and entertainment hub, not just a shopping mall. The layout connects dining, entertainment, and retail seamlessly. For example: Level 1 – luxury and global brands; Level 2 – beauty and jewelry; Levels 3–4 – fashion; Level 5 – sports; Levels 6–9 – restaurants and entertainment; B1 and B2 – curated lifestyle items. Many famous online brands in China choose Joy City for their first or second store in Beijing.
  • Address: 131 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Galeries Lafayette Beijing

Galeries Lafayette department store Xidan
  • Why Visit: Focused on mid-to-high-end fashion. This is the only upscale department store in Xidan. While it might not rival SKP or China World Mall, it still offers a refined selection including niche and boutique labels such as IT, Ami, Longchamp, Off-White, Pinko, and more. It also houses Zhongshuge, known as Beijing’s most beautiful bookstore.
  • Address: 110 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

THE NEW Xidan Geng Xinchang

THE NEW fashion mall Xidan Commercial Street
  • Why Visit: Trendy and photo-friendly. This is one of Xidan’s latest lifestyle retail concepts, and also the most Instagrammable. While relatively compact, it features highly curated stores like Huamei (beauty samples), Girl Mart (adorable gifts), and Delicates (a haven for plain white tees). Located very close to the subway, it’s worth a quick visit even if you’re just passing through.
  • Address: 180 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Hanguang Department Store

Hanguang Department Store with night lights in Xidan
  • Why Visit: A cost-effective destination for serious shoppers. One of the oldest department stores in Xidan, this spot focuses entirely on shopping. Frequent discounts from brands and store-wide promotions are a major draw. Occasionally, the Beijing government partners with stores here to issue discount vouchers. A great stop for clothing and beauty products.
  • Address: Huanan Mansion, 176 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Grand Pacific Mall (Jun Tai Department Store)

Jun Tai Department Store at Xidan Commercial Street
  • Why Visit: Similar in concept to Hanguang, but with different store selections. This mall offers slightly more affordable brands, making it a high-value option for everyday shopping.
  • Address: 133 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Zehuo Zezebao (First Beijing Branch, Xidan Joy City)

Zehuo Zezebao claypot dishes at Xidan
  • Why Visit: Authentic Cantonese flavors. This is the first branch in Beijing of a famous Shenzhen eatery. Even late in the evening, there’s still a line. The stir-fried hot pots are smoky and flavorful—every dish is a hit.
  • Address: 8F-06, 131 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Average cost: 98 RMB

Chuange Fish Dumplings (Qingdao Cuisine, Hanguang Department Store)

Qingdao-style fish dumplings at Hanguang Xidan
  • Why Visit: Known for shrimp dumplings and small seafood dishes from Qingdao. The dumplings are fresh, with thin skins and juicy fillings. Service is fast.
  • Address: 8F, Hanguang Department Store, 176 Xidan North Street, Beijing (Apple Maps)
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Average cost: 73 RMB

Feidachu Chili Stir-Fry (Xidan Joy City)

Spicy stir-fried pork with chili at Joy City Xidan
  • Why Visit: Always crowded for a reason—classic Hunan-style dishes are full of flavor. Rice comes in its own pot, and the signature dish is stir-fried pork with chili.
  • Address: F7, 131 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
  • Average cost: 60 RMB

LA ROSEE (Feng Danlu Original Concept, Xidan Joy City)

Western fusion food at LA ROSEE restaurant Xidan
  • Why Visit: Lush greenery, romantic ambiance—perfect for a date. Their burgers are delicious, and the new lunch sets offer great value. Look out for nightly special discounts.
  • Address: Floor 6, No. B131, Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Average cost: 169 RMB

Xiaodiao Pear Soup (Beijing Cuisine, Xidan Branch)

Traditional Beijing pear soup tea at Xidan Commercial Street
  • Why Visit: A beloved local brand known for its pear soup and cheese fish. There’s nothing better than a hot bowl of pear soup on a chilly day.
  • Address: Floor 7, South Entrance, 109 Xidan North Street, Wedding Celebration Building, Xicheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Average cost: 70 RMB

How to Get to Xidan Commercial Street from Downtown Beijing

Taking the subway is highly recommended, as several metro lines offer direct access to Xidan Commercial Street. It’s fast, affordable, and convenient.

Subway

Xidan is one of the major interchange stations in the Beijing subway network. Line 1 and Line 4 intersect here, making it a key transportation hub. Depending on your starting point in the city, you can transfer to either Line 1 or Line 4 to reach Xidan Station directly.

Bus

There are several bus stops around Xidan Commercial Street, including the Xidan Lukou East stop. Common routes include Bus 1 and Bus 52, among others.

Taxi / Ride-hailing

Taking a taxi or ride-hailing service from downtown Beijing to Xidan usually takes about 15 minutes and costs approximately 30 RMB.

How to Get to Xidan Commercial Street from Beijing Capital International Airport

Taking the subway is recommended. While there’s no direct subway line to Xidan, convenient transfers make it the most budget-friendly option.

Subway

Start at Beijing Capital International Airport by taking the Airport Express train to Dongzhimen Station (fare: 25 RMB). Transfer to Line 2 (inner loop) and ride to Jianguomen Station. Then, transfer to Line 1 (direction: Pingguoyuan) and ride to Xidan Station. The entire trip takes around 70 minutes and costs about 29 RMB.

Airport Shuttle Bus

There is no direct airport shuttle to Xidan Commercial Street. However, you can take the West Railway Station shuttle bus and get off at Xuanwumen East. Then, transfer to Bus 22 and get off at Xiadan Shopping Mall. The trip takes about 100 minutes and costs 32 RMB.

Taxi / Ride-hailing

A taxi or ride-hailing ride from the airport to Xidan takes about 40 minutes and costs approximately 100 RMB.

How to Get to Xidan Commercial Street from Beijing Daxing International Airport

Taking the subway is recommended. Although there’s no direct subway line to Xidan, transfers are efficient and travel time is comparable to a taxi ride.

Subway

From Beijing Daxing International Airport, take the Daxing Airport Express to Caoqiao Station (fare: 35 RMB, duration: about 19 minutes). Transfer to Line 10 and ride to Jiaomen West Station. Then, transfer to Line 4 and ride to Lingjing Hutong Station. From there, it’s a short walk to Xidan Commercial Street. The entire journey takes around 1 hour and costs about 39 RMB.

Taxi / Ride-hailing

Taking a taxi from Daxing Airport to Xidan takes about 60–90 minutes and costs approximately 220 RMB.

FAQ

Is Xidan Commercial Street accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes, Xidan Commercial Street is well-suited for visitors using strollers or wheelchairs. The streets are wide, and major malls like Jun Tai Department Store and Joy City offer barrier-free access with elevators and ramps. Xidan Subway Station also includes accessibility elevators for easy entry and exit.

Where can I store my luggage?

Luggage storage lockers are available at Xidan Subway Station and are charged by the hour. They are ideal for short-term storage. Be sure to keep valuables with you at all times.

How can I find a public restroom?

There are multiple public restrooms along Xidan Commercial Street. The most convenient way is to enter large shopping centers such as Joy City, Hanguang Department Store, or Jun Tai Department Store, where each floor includes well-marked and clean restroom facilities. Xidan Subway Station also offers restrooms for passengers.

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