Beijingers have a long tradition of raising strange pets and this market is ground zero. Here you'll find insects, birds, snakes, lizards, spiders, fish, turtle and ducks--not for the eating. The market's not easy to find, but once you do, you'll see how locals teach their birds how to talk and find out why old Beijingers like to keep crickets in their pockets.

Traveller's Review:

Ask any bird-walking laotou’r where he picked up his wings, and with shocked incredulity, he’ll say, “Guanyuan, dangran!” Beyond birds, this lively market is Beijing’s Noah’s ark, with hundreds of species of creatures vying for your love and adoration. Consider raising your own real-live Totoro—imported from America—at Chinchilla Beijing Specialty Shop (¥600-2,000 per furry friend).

Address: B1, Guangyuan Building, in the northeast of Zizhuyuan Qiao, Xisanhuan,

海淀区西三环紫竹桥东北角广源大厦地下一层.

Vicinity: Xicheng

Tel: 6400-3656