Beijing's largest and most famous flea and antique market, operating in a large outdoor compound in the southeast of the city. On weekend mornings, over three thousand vendors spread goods across covered stalls, outdoor tables, and bare ground — ceramics, Mao-era memorabilia, Cultural Revolution posters, bronze figures, minority textiles, jade, old furniture, calligraphy, and the full range of tourist souvenirs. Most of the antiques are reproductions; genuine pieces are expensive and mixed in with the fakes.
The pleasure of Panjiayuan is in the browsing rather than the buying. Arrive early on Saturday morning when the range is largest and the sellers most negotiable. Bargaining is expected; starting prices are typically double to triple what vendors will accept. The covered sections at the back sell more reliable goods at fixed prices. Accessible by subway (Line 10, Panjiayuan station).