The International fashion brand H&M opened its first store in Beijing on the new Qianmen Street in late April. However, not only international brands but domestic brands will appear on the new Qianmen Street.

About 70 percent of the overall outlets are domestic brands.The new 840-metre-long street, after a two-year facelift, has revived and preserved the atmosphere of the ancient Qianmen Street, which was the city’s hub of traditional folk culture and commerce.

Now the street is restored to what it was like during its heyday in the 1930s. Restored China time-Honored brands (Zhonghua Laozihao) are a major attraction. The Laozihao include Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant, Zhangyiyuan Teahouse, Dabei Photography, Changchuntang Pharmacy, China Bookstore and more.

There are about 100 outlets on the new Qianmen Street; some of them are open to the public; others are still being decorated. It is estimated that the rest of the outlets will be open next year, on the eve of the 60 anniversary of the founding of the PRC.

Among the 100 outlets, there are garment, catering, jewelry and watch, antique art and photography stores as well as pharmacies and a bookstore. Laozihao from other parts of China, such as traditional snacks from Harbin, will also be introduced.

Since it is a pedestrian street, a typical tramcar (named diangdiang che in Chinese) was restored after it was discontinued in the 1960s. Many locals visit the new street just hoping to get on board the diangdiang che.

To improve the infrastructure, mobile toilets have been set up and a large parking lot is being built for about 1,000 cars.

Car parking: approximately 1,000 spaces

Address: south of Tian'anmen Square

地址: 天安门南侧新前门大街