The Liulichang Street of Chinese Culture is a 750 meter long collection of all kinds of Calligraphy, art, antiques and paintings that China has to offer. The street is a hubbub of China’s culture and one is totally taken in by the aura surrounding it. Located south of the Peace gate in Beijing the street is a favorite with tourists. The street came into existence as a by product of the colored glaze factory that was set up here during the Yuan and Ming Dynasties. This factory produced glazed tiles that were used in the construction of the temples and palaces. The street outside this factory over time was used by small vendors who did not have shops to sell their goods, mainly curious. Artifacts ink, paper, second hand books and so on. The factory soon was closed down and the street became a full time selling spot for cultural and educational goods. But again this function of the street also soon died down only to be revived by the Chinese authorities in 1982 and today we have the Liulichang Street of Chinese Culture with its elegant and tasteful gray tiles which are a perfect background for the array for color thrown around the street.

There are many shops of great repute and fame which can be found at the Liulichang Street of Chinese Culture. One of the first that deserves mention is the Rongbaozhai and China Bookshops. Since the street is known for its literature the bookshops are very popular. The Rongbaozhai store was born in the early Qing era. This store is known for its collection of old as well as new paintings and calligraphy. It is famous for its excellent copying and it is said that they copy so well that it is practically impossible to tell the original from the copy.  The China bookshop specializes in hand and blocks printed books which are a rarity in today’s day and age. There are many other shops which sell authentic and antique artifacts as well as mementos to carry home. The china shop also has a branch in the Haiwahgcun park .the Zhenyun store sells jewelry both from the present times as well as the olden ages.

The first ever private museum rightly so found a place on the Liulichang Street of Chinese Culture.  In 1997 the private museum was opened with over 50 displays of porcelain from the Ming and Qing eras. There are also antiques goods, furniture and carpets on display. The feel of the museum is very authentic and one is almost transported back into history when its displays were made. There are also platforms and semi halls to be found on the street which are used from time to time for various cultural activities. The most common purpose of these spots has been to host opera’s and plays which have their roots in Chinese culture.

There are two parks on the Liulichang Street of Chinese Culture namely the Changdian and the Haiwangcun parks. These are by far the most frequently visited parts of the street. The temple fair is held on the premises of the Changdian Park and the Haiwangcun Park also has many water fountains and pavilions for ones relaxation.

The street is target to becoming a symbol of Chinese art and culture. This is the longest shopping street in china and one can be sure that the Chinese government will do all they can for its upkeep and betterment.

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