Antique furniture is a work of art and an investment. Chinese antique furniture embodies traditional Chinese culture in its elaborate and rich designs. As people’s sitting habits changed, so did the furniture, with low tables and chairs representative of earlier times, and higher tables and chairs more recently built. Treasure-hunters should peruse the Gaobeidian Market, one of the best antique furniture markets in Beijing.

Located in Chaoyang District, the market covers an area of 90,887 square meters and specializes in antique Ming and Qing Dynasty furniture as well as antique decorations, pottery, and new concept furniture with old wood.

Founded in the 1990s with only one or two stalls, the market has grown to over 300 shops after ten years' development. Some shops still keep the traditional style of having the show room in front and the workshop in back. The dealers arrange their wares into different zones according to their types and styles. Buyers not only enjoy hunting for treasures but also learn about traditional Beijing culture.

The market has made a name for itself for wholesale prices. Skilled craftsmen from various provinces check items on sale to ensure their quality.

Most antique furniture can be divided into wood and cork. Wood is heavier and sturdier. Cork is lighter and easier to move around. Many popular antiques come from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Ming Dynasty furniture tends to use rosewood and beech, and the lines are simple and elegant. Qing dynasty furniture is heavier and more elaborate, using redwood and new rosewood.

Address: No. 551 Gaobeidian Village, Chaoyang District (朝阳区高碑店村551号)

Get there: Bus 363, 725, 728, 848 to Gaobeidian station (高碑店站)

Subway Line Batong to Gaibeidian station (高碑店站)