Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing’s most famous shopping and cultural destinations, offers a perfect blend of history, modernity, and endless discoveries. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, spending a day wandering through this bustling area promises a variety of experiences that cater to all interests. From iconic bookstores and luxury shopping malls to nostalgic cultural sites and the world’s largest toy store, Wangfujing has something for everyone. Here’s how you can make the most of a day exploring this vibrant and dynamic street.
Wangfujing Bookstore: Start your journey by taking the subway to Wangfujing Station (Exit F1) and walk 200 meters to the Wangfujing Bookstore. As the first bookstore of the New China, it spans seven floors, with the first floor beautifully decorated. The basement level offers a food court and a wide range of cultural products, including calligraphy supplies and art creations. The fifth floor even features a Van Gogh Starry Night Art Gallery.
WF Central: Next, head to Wangfu Central, a luxurious shopping destination with a blend of vintage and modern styles. This spot offers a variety of dining, coffee, hotel, and shopping options, all within a chic and understated atmosphere.
Wangfujing Department Store: Don’t miss Peace Bureau, located on the second basement level, where you can immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of 1980s Beijing. From a green train carriage and a retro movie theater to a hair salon, game rooms, and an old-fashioned photo studio, every corner evokes a sense of the past.
Hamleys Toy Store: Visit the world’s largest toy store, which spans four floors filled with plush toys, figurines, blind boxes, and more. Both kids and adults will find something to love here.
APM Mall: A must-visit shopping mall in Wangfujing, APM offers an array of dining options and a mix of well-known brands that cater to all budgets. The PAGEONE bookstore is also located here, making it easy to spend an entire day without feeling overwhelmed.
Intime In88: Home to the world’s largest LEGO store, Intime In88 is also where you’ll find a variety of popular restaurants and Instagram-worthy spots like the Unicorn Starry Sky Art Museum, the Museum of Broken Relationships, and the Stress Relief Museum.
Wangfujing Catholic Church: Open from 6:00 to 11:00 in the morning and from 14:00 to 16:30 in the afternoon, this historic church requires no reservation. The exterior is stunning, and the interior atmosphere is deeply spiritual. The church is especially beautiful at night—remember to remove your hat when entering.
Lao She Memorial Hall: End your day at the Lao She Memorial Hall, a free museum open from 9:00 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:30). This small but rich museum, set in a traditional courtyard, showcases the life and works of the renowned writer Lao She through photos, texts, and recreations of his living spaces.