Wangjing, once just a village, began transforming in 1987 with the construction of its first residential area, Huajiadi, named after the pepper fields it replaced. By the end of the 20th century, Wangjing had begun to take on the look of a modern city.
After China and South Korea established diplomatic relations in 1992, many Koreans moved to the area. The influx increased dramatically after 2002 with the arrival of Korean companies like LG and Samsung. The area's dining, fashion, and beauty industries transformed significantly with the Korean presence.
As Wangjing became more international, its cultural diversity also began to flourish.
BOOKSLIN
BOOKSLIN is a small bookstore with a green sign under a building's eaves. On the second floor, amidst beauty salons and clothing stores, you'll find it. It's one of the few Korean bookstores in Beijing and is run by a friendly Korean woman. Korean residents often come here to chat and have tea, making it a mini gathering place for the community. The store mostly stocks second-hand books on Korean history, culture, and economy, as well as English books. If you need a specific Korean book, the owner can order it from Korea.
Location: 2nd Floor, Building 316, Wangjing Xiyuan, Chaoyang District
Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:30-18:30, Sunday 13:30-18:30
Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA)
In 2001, the new campus of the Central Academy of Fine Arts was established in Wangjing, attracting many artists. By 2002, numerous artist studios and art institutions had gathered in the nearby 798 Art District. As the art district grew and gained fame, Wangjing became a renowned artistic hub, with a cultural atmosphere extending to the other areas. The presence of CAFA significantly enriched the area's cultural atmosphere.
In 2008, the CAFA Art Museum, designed by famous Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, opened in Huajiadi. The museum houses over 13,000 art pieces, including works by modern masters and outstanding pieces by students since the academy's founding. The graduation exhibition of CAFA students is held in the museum each year, showcasing unique creativity and profound ideas.
Location: No. 8, Huajiadi South Street, Chaoyang District
Hours: 09:30-17:30 (Closed on Mondays)
Side Park
Wangjing is home to several beautiful parks, and Side Park is one of them. The name "Side" embodies the designer's hope that visitors will enjoy nature, exercise, learn about plants, and achieve health and longevity. Designed by a German architect, the park features intricate details unlike the vast open spaces typical of other Beijing parks. Entering from the east gate, you'll find a large lawn, a small lake, and reeds. The south gate offers various sports facilities, including facilities for tennis, soccer, and skateboarding. Side Park is perfect for a relaxing weekend or an active day out. It's also close to a commercial area, ideal for a meal or a rest after a stroll.
Location: No. 9, Jiangtai West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Hours: 24 hours
Translator: LI An
Reviewer: FENG Haoxuan
