Make sure you bargain hard at Guangzhou's main shopping destination.
Most locals and tourists, young and old flock to this busy commercial street in the centre of the city. Guangzhouites love to shop, and this modern neon-lit pedestrian only mall attracts huge crowds from 10 am – 10 pm daily. The shopping street is lined with stores selling both Chinese goods and Western name brands. There are also lots of stalls selling embroidery, clothes and souvenirs – don’t be afraid to bargain hard here and you will go home with bags of goodies. Remember that the strip is a magnet for hawkers, who try to persuade shoppers to look at their fake designers wares. They can be persistent at times, so if you're not interested in what they are selling, just walk on. Also, look out for the mid-range Hong Kong brands in stores, as the prices here are good and quality is high. Away from the main strip, don't overlook the side streets off the main pedestrianized street, as down these rabbit warren-like alleys, there are even more good buys to be had. When you need a break from shopping, there are plenty of interesting things to do in the neighbourhood. Highlights include the Nanyue Kingdom Palace Museum, which holds relics from the Nanhan Kingdom from 2000 years ago, and the site of a Qin Dynasty dockyard.When it comes to food in Guangzhou, you are spoilt for choice, and there are plenty of casual cafés and eateries along the road. Many places are Cantonese restaurants, but there are a surprising number of international cuisines on offer too, a testament to the city's cosmopolitan nature.The shopping street is open until 10 pm and if you're looking for neon and a party-like atmosphere, head here in the evening. Beijing Road Pedestrian Street is in central Guangzhou and is served by the subway.
