Currency
The unit of currency is RMB indicated as CNY. USD1 is roughly equivalent to RM6.83. For latest rate and conversion, please refer to: The unit of currency is RMB indicated as CNY. USD1 is roughly equivalent to RM6.83. For latest rate and conversion, please refer to: www.chinatravel.net/chinatravelNet/tools/Currency.aspx
Money Changing
Foreign currency may be changed in all commercial banks during banking hours:
- Mondays to Sundays - 9.00 am to 17.00 pm
Traveler cheques may be accepted in designated banks, based on mutual understanding between banks.
Timezone
GMT +8:00Write your content here
Electricity
Voltage is 220 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Type A, C, I plug and sockets are used.
Weights and measures
Weights and measures are in metric.
Climate
Beijing lies mainly in the temperate and subtropical zones in the north of China. Autumn (September to October) is the best season in Beijing. Temperatures ranges from 15ºC to 25ºC, you will need a lined jacket or woolen sweater over light clothes.
Business Hour
Shops generally open from 9.00 am to 10.00 pm.
Tips for shoppers
It is wise to compare prices before you buy to ensure you get the best bargains. Prices in the bigger stores are usually fixed although bargaining is still practiced in smaller shops and road side stalls.
Beijing remains a wonderful place to find art, antiques, and handicraftsas well as the bounty of modern China's churning factories. Shops and markets hold a wealth of Chinese calligraphy, paintings, carpets, embroidered silk, jewelry, stone chops, Chinese musical instruments, furniture and Mao memorabilia.
Things you can get in Beijing
Silk: For over 5,000 years the history of silk and the history of China have been closely intertwined. The methods of production were carefully guarded secrets for most of those years. For centuries silk has been one of China's most important items of trade. It is hard to believe, but one small cocoon can yield an incredible two kilometers of silk thread.
Ceramics: China's 7,000 year ceramic history continues to the present day and is still flourishing. The Chinese invented porcelain and tightly held the secrets of its production for hundreds of years. It became a favored item of trade with the Middle East and the West. Antique and current pieces are for sale almost everywhere in Beijing.
Pearls: Chinese freshwater pearls produced in southern China account for over 90% of the world's total freshwater pearls. China's Hepu or South Seas pearl is considered better than other cultured pearls and is far more expensive.
Chops: A favorite purchase in China is buying a Chop, or personal seal, for yourself or family and friends. Many larger hotels provide this service and demonstration in their lobby. A chop, rather than a signature, has been used on official documents or for personal affairs for centuries in China. From ancient imperial times to modern government offices, the use of Chops is common. Chops are carved from many types of stone, jade, wood, metal, or in years past, ivory.
For more information go to: beijinghighlights.com/cityguide/whattobuy.htm
