While in Beijing recently for a conference, I visited the 798 Art District (798 艺术区), an interesting area of eclectic galleries and shops housed in some interesting old buildings.
The 798 Art District consists of many buildings that were formerly military factories that were part of a 1950s military/industrial partnership between the new People's Republic of China and the Soviet Union. After China started "opening up" and privatizing business, the factories had a tough time and were mostly out of business by the early 1990s.
Slideshow of photos from 798 Art Zone
Although the area has become more upscale and touristy in recent years, it still retains much of its eclectic appeal and is well worth a visit if you happen to be in Beijing.