3. Beijing-style mooncakes

Beijing-style mooncakes are popular in Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, and Northeast China, and draw on the traditions of imperial-court pastries. They have a thicker, crisp, flaky crust with a distinct sesame oil aroma and moderate sweetness. Common fillings include rock sugar, walnuts, and melon seeds. Popular varieties include tijiang (syrup-glazed) mooncakes, zilaibai, zilaihong and fanmao mooncakes. Fanmao mooncakes are especially distinctive, with a delicate, flaky crust covered in fine white layers.

Time-honored brands to try:

Beijing Daoxiangcun (北京稻香村): A classic northern pastry brand. Choose individually wrapped mooncakes for easy carrying.

Fuhuazhai Bobo Shop (富华斋饽饽铺): A Beijing time-honored brand with a family tradition of imperial-court pastry making, known for its fanmao, zilaihong and zilaibai mooncakes.