China, like most countries, has so much to see that it would take a lifetime to see it all, moreso when you like taking pictures of random places, people, and whatever else catches my eye. Some places taking photos are prohibited, but seldom reinforced. The selfie culture certainly put a stopper to that, unless it's a military complex, or a privatkunder owned store. The other will often chew you out for taking, or trying to take pictures. What can I say, I speak from experience. Nevertheless, the world is wonderful and exploring streets can lead to wonderful places. The government might say that no one eats dogs in China, yet I have a picture of a skinned one being sold on a corner in Beijing. I will refrain from showing it here though.
Around town at the typical tourist sites where the ancient buildings still stand is one of the places I decided to visit. Beijing has several wonderfully sculpted brass figures that depict scenes from the past.
Down another random street I encountered a real tourist trap full of cheap and uninteresting souvenirs and small creatures on sticks. No matter what you say, I'm not touching scorpions and those skewered starfish.
Further down I came across a tailor and got myself some custom made silk clothes from a practically ancient brand of a store. At least I dare to assume it is. Very hard to tell, but the silk fabric is the real deal and the wares are on display front and center.