Remember the Beijing Friendship Store? Back in the 70s and 80s, this mega-shop in Beijing was THE place to snag imported goodies—things like fancy candies, cosmetics and gadgets that were basically impossible to find elsewhere on the Chinese mainland. Only a lucky few had the VIP pass to shop here. 🌟
Fast-forward to today, and that once-stuffy vibe is history. After a major makeover, the grand old building has been reimagined as a hip lifestyle destination packed with indie cafés, chic rooftop bars and boutique stores. It’s like blending old-school Beijing charm with the vibrant street markets of Bangkok and the artsy laneways of Penang! 🏙️
Highlights to check out:
- Indie cafés brewing artisan coffee and local tea blends ☕️
- Rooftop bars serving up creative cocktails for golden-hour views 🍸
- Curated boutiques featuring emerging Asian designers 🛍️
- Colorful art walls and neon installations—perfect for your next selfie 📸
What makes it pop? Local creatives teamed up with city planners to blend nostalgia with fresh ideas, turning a retro relic into a community hub. Think weekend pop-up markets with street food mash-ups (ramen tacos, anyone?) and low-key music gigs where you can discover the next indie star. 🎶
Whether you’re hunting for unique fashion finds, craving a chill spot to catch up with friends, or just chasing that perfect Insta shot, the reinvented Beijing Friendship Store has you covered. It’s a glowing example of how old-school landmarks can evolve into modern hangouts without losing their soul. 🙌
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
