Xidan Commercial Street is a shopping and entertainment district in Beijing’s Xicheng District, about 2 kilometers west of Tiananmen Square. Its large malls sit alongside smaller shops, with clothing, shoes, food and recreation all in the mix. The area has drawn shoppers since the Ming dynasty and now has a strong youth-fashion focus. Head to Xidan Cultural Square for cinemas, bowling and other entertainment, or take a break for hand-pulled noodles and hot and sour noodles.
A shopping district with a long history
Xidan has been a shopping area since the Ming dynasty, from 1368 to 1644. Today, its identity is closely tied to youth fashion. Large malls and smaller shops stand side by side, with clothing, shoes and other goods among the things to browse.
The district combines shopping with dining, recreation and culture. Its scale can make an afternoon feel short, so leave extra time if you want to explore beyond one mall.
Entertainment at Xidan Cultural Square
Xidan Cultural Square is the area’s central cultural and entertainment venue. Its facilities include underground restaurants and markets, a cinema, a bowling alley, a swimming pool and a rock-climbing club.
Food is part of the stop, too. Hand-pulled noodles and hot and sour noodles are among the local snack options mentioned in the area. English signage may be limited, so finding a restaurant with an English menu or helpful staff can make ordering easier.
Perguntas frequentes
How far is Xidan Commercial Street from Tiananmen Square?
It is about 2 kilometers west of Tiananmen Square.
What can you do at Xidan Cultural Square?
The venue has underground restaurants and markets, a cinema, a bowling alley, a swimming pool and a rock-climbing club.
What food can you try in Xidan?
Hand-pulled noodles and hot and sour noodles are among the area’s snack options.
