Beijing Postcards
Ten years ago, two self-confessed nerds started collecting vintage photographs of China. This collection became the inspiration for Beijing Postcards, a kitschy sounding but brilliant little shop on NLGX. The real show-stealers are the fascinating imperial photos turned into postcards (5RMB).
Boutique De L'Amour
Purple walls and psychedelic ceiling designs are a small price to pay for Beijing's most chi-chi sex shop. Sparsely filled with sex toys of eye-watering sizes and varieties, Boutique De L'Amour even has a 7,000RMB dildo that was once exhibited in New York's MOMA. More modestly priced/sized toys, games and erotic art will tickle your fancy, and parts beyond.
Brand Nü
The first charity shop of its kind in Beijing, Brand Nü collects and sells unwanted goods to be recycled, repaired and reused, the proceeds going directly to benefit rural women in China. They also stock a variety of handicrafts from various NGO-supported projects. Be sure to check out the exquisite fair-trade jewellery from Guizhou.
Fengguo Box
With branches throughout the city, the central premise of Fengguo Box is that designers can rent a 'box' within the store for around 200RMB per month, and sell their designs. Discover Communist-inspired trinkets, stuffed toys, clothing and mad stuff galore.
Mu Handicrafts
Superior curiosities and knick-knacks abound at Mu Handicrafts, where the shelves are lined with great leather-bound books and notepads from 20-240RMB and artisan jewellery at around 50RMB.
Natooke
Natooke is an oh-so-niche trick cycle and juggling ball shop. The fixed-gear bikes (from 2,800RMB) are circus standard, while the diabolos, rola bolas and standard juggling balls are pretty cheap, too. Bike rentals and juggling workshops also offered.
Time Travel Store
A haven for second-hand goods. Time Travel's owner Robin Liao will buy back many of the books, CDs and DVDs he sells for half-price once you've finished with them. Check out the handmade planes and cars too.