The ancient land of Himalaya captures the souls of many who have ever or never been there. So  I was thrilled to find a shop in Beijing offering handicrafts from that mystical region.

BaZha Tribe in the Drum Tower area carries a wide variety of daily products from Nepal, Pakistan, India, Tibet, and even Russia. Although everyday items there, these are rarely found elsewhere in the world.

Ms. Ma, the owner, was a former tourism editor. She introduced me to a collection of Pakistani products: a peach-wood fruit tray, boat-shape bowl with a complex floral design, and a candleholder that looks like a grape vine. Prices range from RMB 250 to RMB 1500.

Personally, I liked the Nepalese woolen scarves and shawls. Handmade in a small town near Nepal’s capital Katmandu, they are colorful, soft, and decorated with intricate motifs. Each sells around RMB 300. They are also the best seller at BaZha Tribe.

Products from Tibet include necklaces, rings, bracelets, prayer wheels, and Tangkas. Prices vary a lot, from RMB 30 to RMB 2000.

Ms. Ma speaks fluent English and French, and often travels to Himalaya region. She’d love to tell you a story or two about the region.

What I appreciate

Nepal shawls and scarves

What customers appreciate

Beautiful products, quality service

With the 2008 Beijing Olympiad drawing near, the Offical Licensed Olympic Merchandise Outlet on the first floor of Yueshow Fashion Market has become a popular destination for foreign and domestic tourists alike. It carries a full selection of official Olympic souvenirs. The products include mascots, T-shirts, hats, bracelets, pack bags, wallets, umbrellas, cups, and pens.

The best-sellers, though, are the 5 Olympic Fuwa(Lucky Dolls) mascots.--resembling fish, panda, Tibetan antelope, swallow, and Olympic flame respectively. With names BeiBei, JingJing, HuanHuan, YingYing, and NiNi, their names make up the Beijing Olympic motto: BeiJingHuanYingNi (Beijing Welcomes You). The dolls are happy, lively, and represent good luck to all Olympic  participants and fans worldwide. So fans of the Olympics, or just fans of cute mascots, should certainly find the store to your liking.

Shop assistants are hospitable, and can speak good English. Prices vary.  An Olympic bracelet, for example, prices at RMB 18.  While a big, cuddly mascot character each cost several hundred Yuan.

What I appreciate

Welcoming atmosphere and large selection of products

What customers appreciate

The Fuwas – Lucky Dolls