Handicrafts of Old Beijing

Handicrafts, especially the Old Beijing handicrafts, are an essential culture of Beijing.

Located near the Forbidden City in inner of Beijing, Ya Xuan carries a large selection of traditional Chinese and old Beijing handicrafts. They offer cloth soles, Peking opera masks, clay figurines, Chinese knot, and more.

Browsing through the shop, I can’t resist picking up a grinning ‘Huan Xi Wa Wa’ – Happiness Doll. People believe it brings good luck to families and gives newlyweds a life-long bond. Each sells for around RMB 20.

The pottery works of old Beijing residential gates (RMB 150) really brought back old memories. The weeds on roofs, the mottled bricks of the walls, and the worn-away footsteps, are all beautifully reproduced here.

Another interesting item is the zodiac pendant. They have one for each animal, each with a different meaning. For example, fish means ‘abundance’, “Fu” symbols ‘blessing’, and the boar is for ‘Happiness’. Each of pendants sells for RMB 50.

The owner is very nice and speaks a little English.

What I appreciate

Art on the old gates of Beijing

What customers appreciate

Beautiful baubles of Old Beijing, quality service