Lotus Market in Beijing 2024
A summer escape for viewing lotus, eating Chinese foods, watching folk performances, and enjoying night clubs
Best time: mid-June–August (all year round)
Lotus Market, which is located on the west bank of Qianhai Lake in the historic Shichahai area, is an ideal summer resort for Beijingers and visitors. This market was named after the lotus scene on the lake. The market operates year-round. Summer is the best time for you to visit this market. In July and August, the lake is covered with lotus flowers, and the willows tremble in the wind—what a beautiful scene! Except for viewing lotus, you can also eat summer snacks and enjoy folk art performances in the market.
Lotus Market is also famous for its snacks. Bing Wan is a distinctive Beijing dish that you can only find at the Lotus Market. Its special status is connected closely to its ingredients—lotus root, almonds, walnuts, lotus seed, sugar, and lotus leaf. Beijing traditional specialties such as pea flour cake, noodles with fried bean, and fermented soy-bean milk are also popular among both Beijingers and tourists.
From the 5th day of the fifth lunar month, which usually falls in between June and August, you can see folk performances on the board along the river. The performances include two-men comic shows (one speaks or sings while hiding behind the other who does the acting), cross talk, and Lianhualao (a genre of the folk song accompanied by bamboo clappers). Nowadays, Lotus Market is famous for its night sights. Bars and commercial stores have taken over the streets. Some traditional Beijing elements are disappearing. However, viewing the lotus blooming during the day and the colorful market at night will be a pleasant experience to remember.
Practical info
When is the best time to see the lotus flowers in full bloom at Lotus Market in Beijing?
Mid-June to August is the optimal time to visit Lotus Market as during this period the lotus flowers are in full bloom while the willows sway in the wind. During this period, visitors can also look forward to folk art performances and summer snacks. Various other times of the year are available to visit the market as it operates throughout the year.
Where can Lotus Market be found in Beijing?
Located on the west bank of Qianhai Lake, Lotus Market resides within the historic Shichahai area of Beijing. The market is easily accessed by taxi or public transportation, with several entrances available.
What unique foods are available for visitors to try at Lotus Market?
Bing Wan, a delicacy made from lotus root, almonds, walnuts, lotus seed, sugar, and lotus leaf, awaits visitors to Lotus Market. Other Bejing specialities, including pea flour cake, noodles with fried bean, and fermented soy-bean milk, are available. It is an excellent opportunity to taste these specialities unique to Beijing.
What kind of folk performances can visitors expect at Lotus Market, and when?
Folk performances such as two-men comic shows, cross-talk, and Lianhualao, accompanied by bamboo clappers, await visitors at Lotus Market in the evenings sorted from 5th day of the fifth lunar month (usually during June and August). It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the Chinese folk arts and traditions.
What is the current state of Lotus Market, and what does it offer to visitors?
Over the years, bars and commercial stores have replaced traditional Beijing elements at Lotus Market. However, visitors can still witness lotus blooming during the day and a vibrant market at night. With year-round availability, Lotus Market offers visitors an authentic experience of Beijing's traditional culture and a glimpse into the modern-day Beijing lifestyle.
