Dashilar

Overview

Dashilar is one of Beijing's oldest commercial streets, with over 600 years of continuous trade history. This narrow pedestrianized lane south of Tiananmen preserves heritage shopfronts alongside contemporary design interventions.

Highlights

• Heritage Shops: Century-old brands like Ruifuxiang (silk since 1893), Tongrentang (traditional medicine since 1669), and Neiliansheng (shoes since 1853) still operate from their original premises.
• Dashilar Project: A contemporary art and design initiative has brought experimental architecture, pop-up galleries, and creative studios into disused hutong courtyards.
• Qianmen Street: Connects to the restored Qianmen pedestrian avenue, lined with Republican-era architecture.

History

Established in the Ming dynasty as Beijing's main commercial district, it thrived as the center of theater, banking, and luxury goods for 600 years. The name means 'Big Fence Gate,' referring to barriers that once sealed the street at night.

Visitor Tips

• Tongrentang: Visit the flagship Tongrentang pharmacy to see traditional Chinese medicine dispensed in a magnificent Qing-era interior.
• Explore Broadly: Wander beyond the main street into the surrounding hutongs for small galleries and local teahouses.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.