Donghuamen Night Market, once a bustling hub in Beijing, gained notoriety for its adventurous and often shocking array of street food. Visitors could find everything from grilled scorpions and starfish to snakes and even various animal genitalia on skewers. This unique offering attracted tourists seeking an unforgettable, albeit sometimes unsettling, culinary experience. The market was a popular spot for those wanting to push their gastronomic boundaries and capture daring photos. +1

However, the market's unique appeal also drew criticism and eventually led to its closure. Concerns over hygiene, animal welfare, and the overall 'exotic' nature of the food contributed to its downfall. Many locals and even some tourists felt the market had become more of a tourist trap than a genuine culinary destination. In recent years, Donghuamen Night Market has been permanently closed, leaving a void for those seeking such extreme street food experiences.

For those still interested in exploring Beijing's vibrant street food scene, alternative night markets like Guijie Street (Ghost Street) offer a more conventional yet equally delicious experience. These markets provide a wide variety of authentic Chinese snacks, from savory dumplings and noodles to sweet treats and grilled seafood, catering to a broader range of palates.