Japanese knick-knacks in Beijing

Nestled among old Beijing-style courtyards on Guozijian Jie, Zakka is an interesting place where to buy gifts as you stroll around the Hutongs (Beijing old alleyways). The shop is run by a Japanese lady, Hangyo Rie, and by her Chinese photographer husband, Liu Tong.

"Zakka" means knick-knacks in Japanese, and the store carries a variety of gift items imported from the Land of the Rising Sun--including transparent glass teapots (RMB 40) to infuse pu'er tea (a variety of Chinee green tea with a strong taste and healthy proprieties), cat figurines, sushi mats (RMB 15), various sizes of rattan fruit baskets, and towels printed with charming Japanese patterns. A wide range of handmade jewelry is also on display.

The little shop's decor has been juiced up with a series of Liu Tong's photographic works on the walls, depicting different scenes of Beijing.

The couple speaks basic English and good Japanese, so you can talk with them in both languages.

What I appreciate

The transparent teapot

What customers appreciate

A large selection of gift items imported from Japan