Written by Veronica |
As a major travel destination all around the world, China boasts many shopping cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong for the affordable goods with super quality. Whenever you are making a travel to China, keep in mind sparing some time for shopping in China. On one hand, you can always find the most satisfied products from the high-end luxury stores to the street stalls. On the other hand, it offers a perfect opportunity to see the inside part of China and get close to the local people and culture during the process of shopping. Now, letās explore together the 10 best cities in China for shopping.
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- China Is a Shopping Paradise
- 1. Shanghai ā The Global Luxury and Fashion Shopping Metropolis
- 2. Beijing ā A Mix of History and Bargains
- 3. Guangzhou ā The Trade Hud and Heaven for Wholesale and Fashion Lovers
- 4. Chengdu ā For Local Crafts and Sichuan Specialties
- 5. Hong Kong ā Duty-Free Luxury and Mega Malls
- 6. Shenzhen ā Mecca for Electronics Enthusiasts
- 7. Sanya/Haikou ā Resort Duty-free Shopping
- 8. Hangzhou ā E-commerce Hub of China
- 9. Yiwu ā Bargain Hunterās Paradise
- 10. Jingdezhen ā A City Born for Porcelain and Ceramics
- 11. Macau
- Shopping Streets and Markets in Other Major Tourisit Cities
- Tips for Shopping in China
China Is a Shopping Paradise
Shopping in China: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
For shopaholics, shopping in China brings a unique experience. As China is an open country with a long history, it blends the old traditions and modern elements very well. You can find both traditional markets and modern retail stores which suitably meet your budgets and needs.
What Makes China a Top Shopping Destination for Tourists?
As is known to all, China has been called the worldās factory for a long time due to the low-price labor and high-quality goods. Nowadays, with the good exchange rate, visitors find that they can purchase goods at a very favorable price from China. Besides, the emerging of various online shopping options makes it more convenient than before for shopping in China.
What to Buy While in China: From Souvenirs to Luxury Goods
When you ask what to buy while in China, I will say tea and silk are undoubtedly the first choices if you buy souvenirs for families and friends. Besides, some local hand-made arts and crafts like clay sculptures, Chinese knots, ceramics, jade ware, paintings and calligraphy are highly recommended. If you are fond of Chinese food, you can add traditional desserts in Shanghai and Suzhou onto your shopping list. Well, it is also recommended to buy luxury goods at duty-free shops at high-end malls.
1. Shanghai ā The Global Luxury and Fashion Shopping Metropolis
Renowned as the oriental pearl, Shanghai magnetizes visitors from near and far not only by its iconic landmark buildings, but also by its charm of shopping. Shopping centers in Shanghai China gather top-notch fashion brands from around the world and numerous local trendy brands. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is always bustling, with various shopping malls and stores lined up on both sides. Huaihai Middle Road, reputed for the strong atmosphere of fashion, is home to high-end brand stores. Shopping in Shanghai is not perfect without a travel to the Yuyuan Market, where there are traditional stores selling goods with Chinese characteristics, such as silk products and handicrafts. Moreover, Shanghai owns a number of departure tax refund shops, where the “buy and refund” service allows foreign tourists to shop without any worries.
What and Where to Buy in Shanghai:
- Nanjing Road: unmatched concentration of High-End Malls & Luxury Brands
- Huaihai Road: elegant top-ranked designer flagship stores
- Xujiahui: electronic items, clothes and accessories
- Yuyuan Market: local special desserts, traditional finds like gold and silver ornaments in Laofengxiang Shop and vanishing cream with exquisite packages
Recommended Shanghai tour:
2. Beijing ā A Mix of History and Bargains
As one of the best cities in China for shopping, Beijing integrates historical and modern fashion atmosphere perfectly. Bristled with international brands and trendy stores, Sanlitun commercial is a gathering place for trendsetters. Wangfujing Department Store located at the center of Beijing is an old-brand shopping mall with a wide variety of products. In addition, there are many time-honored stores in Beijing, such as Ruifuxiang and Neiliansheng, where you can buy traditional style Chinese costume and cloth shoes. The Palace Museum has also developed distinctive souvenirs combining traditional culture with modern design, making a great gift for shopping in China. For an immersive experience of local culture and life, the many markets in Beijing should be on your Beijing bucket list.
What and Where to Buy in Beijing:
- Beijing Silk Market & Pearl Market: silk, ceramics, jade and antiques
- Beijing Antique Market (Panjiayuan): antiques, painting and calligraphy,
- Wangfujing Shopping Street: luxury brands
- Zhongguancun: electronic products
Recommended Beijing Itinerary: 4 Days Beijing Essence Tour
3. Guangzhou ā The Trade Hub and Heaven for Wholesale and Fashion Lovers
As the core commercial center in south China, Guangzhou boasts the bustling Tianhe commercial district with numerous large shopping centers and brand stores, where you can find a wide range of products including clothing, electronics, and food. Besides, Baima Clothing Market allows visitors to buy fashionable clothes at affordable prices. Being the starting city of the Maritime Silk Road as well as one of the most important trading ports of China, Guangzhou has abundant resources of imports so that you can find goods from all over the world here.
Where and What to buy in Guangzhou:
- Wholesale markets In Guangzhou: Baiyun, Zhanxi, Haizhu (Baiyun for leather, Zhanxi for clothing, and Haizhu for textiles)
- Tianhe CBD: clothing, electronics, and food
- Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street: clothing and food
- What to Buy in Guangzhou: Fashion, Electronics, and More Beijing Road:
Recommended Tour Itinerary: 8 Days Guangzhou Canton In-depth Tour
4. Chengdu ā For Local Crafts and Sichuan Specialties
Chengdu is popular among shopaholics for its cluster of booming luxury shopping malls like the panda-themed IFS Mall and Taikoo Li arrayed around the Chunxi Road. Nowadays, they are considered as the landmark buildings in Chengdu where visitors cannot miss. In addition, the vibrant local designer stores near the Wide and Narrow Alleys are must-visit destinations for shopping in China. There are also departure tax refund shops in Chengdu, offering convenient tax refund services for foreign tourists. As Chengdu is a natural habitat of giant pandas, panda gifts sell well.
Where and what to buy in Chengdu:
- Chunxi Road (IFS Mall & Taikoo Li): luxuries
- Wide & Narrow Alleys: Shu brocade, Shu embroidery, tea, silk
- Jinli Ancient Street: food and snack
Recommended Tour Itinerary:
2 Days Chengdu Private Tour with Mt. Mengding Tea Culture Experience
5. Hong Kong ā Duty-Free Luxury and Mega Malls
Due to the low tax rate policy adopted, most goods in Hong Kong are not subject to taxation, so that prices are generally lower than in other countries and regions. No wonder that Hong Kong is called the Shopping Paradise! Hong Kong city shopping malls are mainly concentrated on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.
The Central district of Hong Kong Island is a high-end shopping area, where many international top brands such as Chanel and Gucci gather at the Landmark Plaza and the Prince’s Building. The Taikoo Place in Admiralty is also an ideal Hong Kong shopping destination. Sogo Department Store is a large Japanese store offering significant discounts during its annual May and November anniversary celebrations. Langham Place in Mong Kok focuses on young fashion brands, suitable for those who pursue avant-garde trends. In the outdoor Ladies’ Market, you can not only buy women’s costumes of various styles, but also other small commodities like watch, leather bags, toys and cosmetics.
Read on to find more markets for shopping and food in Hong Kong.
Where to buy and what to buy:
- Harbour City: luxuries, skincare products and cosmetics
- Ladies’ Market: women’s costumes of various styles, small commodities like watches, leather bags, toys and cosmetics
- Causeway Bay: luxuries in high-end department stores, food
Recommended Tour: 2 Days Hong Kong Food Tour
6. Shenzhen ā Mecca for Electronics Enthusiasts
Shenzhen is the undisputed capital for electronic products and gadgets in China. In Shenzhen Huaqiangbei Electronics Market, the largest exchange center of digital products, you can find items ranging from laptops to smart phones and watches at affordable prices. The emerging local brands including Huawei and Xiaomi are especially favored by customers. As a thriving coastal city, Shenzhen is developing rapidly in recently years and owns high-end shopping centers such as Wanda Plaza and Coastal City, providing a wide range of fashion brands and food choices.
Where and what to buy in Shenzhen:
- Huaqiangbei Electronics Market: digital products
- Luohu Commercial City: silk Qipao, jade trinkets, knock-offs
- MixC Shenzhen Bay: Gucci, Loewe
7. Sanya/Haikou ā Resort Duty-free Shopping
Sanya and Haikou are often regarded among the best cities for shopping in China owing to the advantageous off-shore duty-free policy. Visitors can not only spend a leisure time on the golden beach resorts, but also enjoy the pleasure of shopping. In CDF Sanya International Duty-Free Shopping Complex, you can even buy cosmetics, watches, and fashion items of the luxury brands like Chanel, Gucci, and EstƩe Lauder at 30-50% discounts. If you hunt for local-flavor goods, south sea pearls and coconut crafts at the First Market are recommended. Relatively speaking, the CDF Haikou International Duty-free Shopping Complex is larger and newer with more advanced facilities with similar discounts. You can make your choice according to your travel itinerary.
Where to buy and what to buy:
- CDF Sanya International Duty-Free Shopping Complex & CDF Haikou International Duty-free Shopping Complex: luxuries
- The First Market: south sea pearls and coconut crafts
- Qilou Old Street in Haikou: Hainan coffee, tropical fruit snacks and Li Minority textiles
Suggested tour: 3 Days Sanya Beach Resort and Cultural Tour
8. Hangzhou ā E-commerce Hub of China
Being one of the top shopping cities in China, Hangzhou is now the pioneer of e-commerce in China where online shopping is quite advanced. In terms of offline shopping, the surrounding areas of West Lake and Wulin Square are top picks by visitors. Silk products in Hangzhou, such as brands like Dujinsheng, win the favor of visitors for their exquisite craftsmanship and high-quality fabrics. Ranked among the best tea in China, Hangzhou Longjing Tea is worth tasting. You can have fun in picking and making tea in the tea garden and purchase the most authentic tea for a souvenir.
What and where to buy in Hangzhou:
- Hefang Street: hand-painted silk fans, Longjing tea, traditional snacks
- West Lake In77: Gucci, Cartier
- China National Silk Museum Shop: silk scarves, customized Qipao
- Wulin Square: local street food, trinkets
- Meijiawu Tea Plantations: tea
Suggested tour: 2 Days Hangzhou Essence Tour
Related reading: What to Buy in Suzhou?
9. Yiwu ā Bargain Hunterās Paradise
Globally famed as a shopping destination for small commodities, Yiwu owns over 7,5000 shops where you can find almost all types of products that you can imagine, including daily necessities, holiday decorations, electronic products, fashion accessories, and so on. Whether you are seeking to buy souvenirs or make a bulk order as a merchant, Yiwu can meet you needs. The logistics industry in Yiwu is extremely advanced, making it possible to deliver goods to all parts of the world every day.
Where to buy and what to buy:
- Yiwu International Trade City: Area I for toys, flowers, arts and crafts, and ornaments; Area II for electrical appliances, umbrellas, bags, and suitcases; Area III for stationery, sports equipment, and cosmetics; Area VI for socks, leggings, gloves, hats and caps, shoes and underwear; Area V for fabrics, beddings and car accessories.
- Huangyuan Garment Market: Clothing
- Binwang Night Market: Clothing, ornaments, and toys
10. Jingdezhen ā A City Born for Porcelain and Ceramics
For porcelain and ceramics lovers, Jingdezhen is a pilgrimage site when shopping in China. Whether you are looking for museum-level art treasures, unique master hand-made works, cost-effective household decorations, or just want to experience creative vitality in the bustling market, this place can satisfy you. Some workshops in Jingdezhen offer English-friendly pottery classes, so that you can join in a class, create your own pottery and take it back home after your travel.
Where to buy and what to buy:
- Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative Park: tea cups, vases and jewelry by young designers; limited-edition works at Taoxichuan Ceramic Art Avenue & Art Gallery.
- Sculpture Porcelain Factory: blue-and-white porcelain of Ming and Qing Dynasty styles
- Sanbao International Ceramics Village: high-end blue-and-white porcelain bowls, teapots and vases
Suggested itinerary: 5 Days Jingdezhen Porcelain Tour with Mt. Huangshan
Related reading: Major China City Area Codes and Zip Codes
11. Macau
With the status as a free port andĀ itsĀ low tax rate policy,Ā Macau offers you abundant shopping options with an acceptable price. Especially the luxuries, the price is usually 70 – 80 % of that in mainland of China because of the local tax-free policy and exchange rate differences. In the integrated resorts in Cotai, you will enjoy the best and one-stop luxurious shopping experience. Besides, the local souvenirs and Portuguese-style food are also characteristic and worth purchasing. The shopping streets in Macau Peninsula are the best places. So in Macau, no matter luxuries or authentic souvenirs, you can buy anything you want.
Where and What to buy in Macau:
- Resorts in Cotai: Handbags, wristwatches, jewelry, high-end skincare products, perfumes
- Paul’s Street, Senado Square and Rua da Cunha: various souvenirs
- Chain stores like Mannings and Watsons: cosmeceuticals, beauty products
Recommended tour: 2 Days Hong Kong and Macau Highlights Tour
Shopping Streets and Markets in Other Major Tourisit Cities
Cities |
Shopping Streets and Markets |
What to buy |
Lhasa |
Barkhor Street, Jokhang TempleĀ Business Circle |
Traditional Tibetan handicrafts and native products |
Harbin |
Central Street, Central Mall, Qiulin Company |
International brands, specialties |
Xian |
Bell Tower ā South Gate Business Circle, Xiaozhai Business Circle, SKP, Kaiyuan Mall, Seg Mall, Gpark |
High-end luxuries, local cultural and creative products |
Chongqing |
Jiefangbei Business Circle, Raffles, Times Square, Longfor Times Street |
International luxury goods, fashion brands, beauty products, souvenirs |
Urumqi |
Erdaoqiao, International Bazaar, Hualing Jade City |
Xinjiang specialties like dried fruits and Edlaisi silk, jade |
Tips for Shopping in China
Bargain is necessary
In street stalls, small commodity markets, antique markets, and food streets, it is encouraged to make a bargain. Sometimes, bargaining is a source of pleasure when shopping in China.
Related reading: Shopping and Bargaining Tips in China
Use mobile payments: Alipay/WeChat Pay dominate
Nowadays, seldom do the locals use cash so itās recommended to use mobile payments, which are very convenient, fast and safe. In most scenes, people use Alipay and Wechat to pay for things.
For shopping in Shanghai, there is the Shanghai Pass. You do not need to register. Instead, you can simply buy a card at the airport or other designated stores, top it up and swipe it when purchasing goods, using public transport, and buying tickets for scenic areas.
Visit during sales
Promotional activities such as seasonal discounts make shopping in China cost-effective. In China, stores often launch the most favorable discounts on the Singlesā Day on Nov. 11, which is similar to the Black Friday, and Jun. 18 in the middle of a year. Other promotions happen at Mar. 8, the National Day Celebration from Oct. 1 to 7, and the Spring Festival.
Check authenticity: Scan QR codes on luxury items
To ensure that you are not cheated, keep it in mind to scan the QR codes on luxury items. Shopping in malls generally can ensure the authenticity of the goods.
Duty-Free & Tax Refund Info
In China, the āBuy Now, Return NowāĀ policy has been promoted all over China. In many cities like Beijing and Shanghai, you can receive the cash refund directly on spot if purchasing in the designated stores. And the most special place is Hainan Island, the paradise for duty-free shopping in China. Its duty-free shopping zone is still growing now. Even if you just leave Hainan and head to other cities in China, you can also enjoy the duty-free policy. For the convenience of tourists, in many duty-free malls, tourists can take the goods immediately or pick them up at the port when leaving the island.
Best Times to Shop in China
In China, there are two large shopping festivals, 618 and Double 11, which are on June 18 and November 11, respectively. These two festivals usually last for about 15 days and almost all online shopping platforms and large shopping malls will launch promotional activities. Most merchants will offer a discount on their goods. Both are the best time to purchase the goods you want at the lowest price. Besides, in some important festivals like the Chinese New Year and the National Holiday, there are also some promotional events.
