Shanghai offers a unique blend of modern elegance and traditional charm, making it an exciting place to shop. Visitors can find souvenirs ranging from luxurious silk and tea to cultural handicrafts and delicious local snacks. This guide will help you discover what to buy in Shanghai, ensuring that you take home the best gifts and memories from your trip.
1. Popular Gifts & Souvenirs
Shanghai offers an abundance of traditional gifts and unique souvenirs. Here are some of the most popular items:
Silk Products
Shanghai is known for high-quality silk, so it’s a great choice for gifts. Authentic Shanghai silk products like scarves, pajamas, and robes make luxurious and practical souvenirs. The South Bund Fabric Market is a top spot for finding beautifully crafted silk items and offers custom tailoring services if you want something made just for you.
The South Bund Fabric Market (南外滩轻纺面料市场）
Add: 399 Lujiabang Lu, near Nancang Jie., Huangpu District 上海黄浦区陆家浜路399号, 近南仓街
Traditional Chinese Clothing
From elegant cheongsams (qipao) to intricately designed jackets, traditional Chinese clothing is a wonderful gift. Qipaos, in particular, make stunning presents, blending Shanghai’s culture with fashion. For an authentic shopping experience, head to Shanghai Tang or explore local boutiques around Nanjing Road.
Shanghai Tang at Shop 132, Shanghai Centre
Address: No. 1376, West Nanjing Road, JingAn District, Shanghai (南京西路1376号）
Tel: +86 21 5235 2568
Opening Hours:
Mon – Sun: 10am – 10pm (including public holidays)
Jade Jewelry and Accessories
Jade has been a symbol of luck and protection in China for centuries. Shanghai has excellent jade markets, where you can find beautiful jade pendants, bracelets, and rings. Hongqiao Pearl Market offers a wide variety of jade jewelry, with knowledgeable vendors who can help you choose the perfect piece.
Hongqiao Pearl Market
Address: Hongmei Lu 3721, Changning District, Shanghai (上海长宁区虹梅路3721号）
Phone: +86 21 6262 6588
Tea and Tea Sets
Tea is an essential part of Chinese culture, and Shanghai offers some of the finest tea varieties and tea sets. Visit Tianshan Tea City, a massive tea market, where you’ll find green tea, oolong, and jasmine tea. Additionally, consider buying a traditional Chinese tea set as a gift, which includes a teapot and cups for an authentic tea experience.
Tianshan Tea City
Address: 518 Zhongshan W Rd, Changning District, Shanghai （长宁区中山西路518号）
Phone: +86 21 6259 9999
2. Shanghai Food Souvenirs
Taking home a taste of Shanghai is always a good idea. These popular local food items make perfect gifts:
Shanghai Snacks
If you’re wondering what to buy in Shanghai in terms of food, consider famous snacks like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or shanghainese mooncakes. You can buy packaged versions in many local stores. Sunya Cantonese Confectionery on Nanjing Road has various packaged snacks, including pastries and cookies.
Sunya Cantonese Confectionery 新雅羊城食府
Address: Second Floor, No.719 Nanjing East Road, Shanghai 南京东路719号2楼
+86 21 6351 7788
Chinese Herbal Products
For those interested in wellness gifts, consider Chinese herbal products. Items like goji berries, ginseng, and herbal teas make meaningful presents. The Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum shop has a wide range of high-quality herbal products that emphasize health and balance.
Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum
Address: No 1200 Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai (浦东新区蔡伦路1200号）
Tel: +86-21-51322712
Opening hours: 9:00 am—4:00 pm.
3. Unique and Cultural Souvenirs
For those looking for cultural items, Shanghai has many unique and meaningful gifts:
Chinese Ceramics
China is famous for its ceramics, and Shanghai offers a variety of beautiful pottery. Fosun Art Center and smaller boutiques near Yuyuan Garden are excellent places to find decorative ceramics, from teacups to vases. Ceramic pieces can be a little fragile, so take care when packing them.
Traditional Fans and Paper Cuttings
Fans and paper cuttings are classic Chinese gifts with cultural significance. Handmade fans are available in various styles, featuring landscapes, calligraphy, or floral designs. Paper cuttings are intricate decorations often used in festivals, with designs symbolizing good fortune and happiness.
Chinese Calligraphy Brushes and Ink
Calligraphy is a revered art form in China, and high-quality brushes and ink make unique gifts for art lovers. Calligraphy sets are available in various prices and quality levels, making them a versatile gift option. Shanghai Book City on Fuzhou Road is a great place to explore calligraphy supplies and other artistic souvenirs.
Shanghai Book City
Address:上海福州路465号（465 Fuzhou Rd.,Shanghai China）
4. Shopping Locations in Shanghai
Shanghai is home to a variety of shopping locations, from modern malls to bustling markets. Here are some top spots to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s premier shopping street, stretching several kilometers with an impressive range of stores. You’ll find everything here, from luxury brands to souvenir shops. The east end of Nanjing Road is ideal for tourists looking to explore both modern and traditional Chinese products.
Check out How to Visit Nanjing Road for more information.
Shanghai Old Street
Shanghai Old Street, located in the Yuyuan Garden area, is a historic street lined with shops selling traditional handicrafts, antiques, and specialty foods. You’ll find items like handmade fans, silk, tea, and ceramics here. This area is also a fantastic place to enjoy the architecture and street food while shopping.
Hongqiao Pearl Market
The Hongqiao Pearl Market offers an extensive selection of jewelry, pearls, jade, and other accessories. It’s a popular spot for visitors looking for personalized jewelry gifts or rare gemstones.
Hongqiao Pearl Market
Address: Hongmei Lu 3721, Changning District, Shanghai (上海长宁区虹梅路3721号）
Phone: +86 21 6262 6588
Fabric Markets
If you’re looking for custom-made clothes or fabrics, visit Shanghai’s fabric markets. The South Bund Fabric Market is the most famous, known for tailors who can create a custom garment in just a few days. The market also offers scarves, dresses, and other silk products that make wonderful gifts.
The South Bund Fabric Market (南外滩轻纺面料市场）
Add: 399 Lujiabang Lu, near Nancang Jie., Huangpu District 上海黄浦区陆家浜路399号, 近南仓街
5. Shanghai Shopping Tips for Tourists
Shopping in Shanghai can be a unique experience with a few tips in mind:
- Bargain in Markets: In markets like Dongtai Road Antique Market and Hongqiao Pearl Market, bargaining is common. Start by offering a price lower than the listed price and negotiate from there.
- Check Authenticity: When buying jade, antiques, or silk, make sure to check for authenticity. Ask questions, and if possible, shop with a local or experienced guide who can help verify products.
- Shop at the Right Time: Early mornings or late afternoons are usually less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience. This is especially true for bustling areas like Nanjing Road and the fabric markets.
6. Affordable and Luxury Gifts
Shanghai offers a wide range of gift options to suit all budgets. Here are some ideas for affordable and luxury souvenirs:
Affordable Gifts
For affordable gifts, head to markets and local shops where you can find inexpensive items like postcards, small trinkets, and food souvenirs. Packaged snacks, handmade fans, and traditional paper cuttings make budget-friendly gifts.
Luxury Gifts
Shanghai is home to luxury brands and designer boutiques, especially along Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road. Designer handbags, jewelry, and silk garments are all available if you’re looking for high-end gifts. The Bund area also has luxury shops offering exclusive items.
7. Final Tips for Buying Gifts in Shanghai
Bringing home a piece of Shanghai is a great way to remember your trip and share its unique culture. Follow these final tips to make the most of your shopping experience:
- Consider Shipping Options: If you’re buying larger items or delicate ceramics, consider shipping them directly to your home. Many shops offer shipping services and can assist with packing fragile items.
- Explore Different Neighborhoods: Each Shanghai neighborhood has its own unique shopping experience. Visit multiple locations to find varied products and gain a richer cultural experience.
- Buy Practical Souvenirs: Many tourists prefer gifts they can use or display at home, like tea, silk, or ceramics. Practical souvenirs are always appreciated and memorable.
Shopping in Shanghai offers an exciting mix of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re exploring markets for unique handicrafts or browsing high-end boutiques for luxury goods, this guide to what to buy in Shanghai should help you find memorable souvenirs. With a range of options, from silk and jade to local snacks and calligraphy supplies, Shanghai has something for every taste and budget. Happy shopping, and enjoy bringing a piece of Shanghai home!
More Shanghai Travel Guide
Plan your Shanghai Tour? Our “Shanghai Travel Guide“ section offers essential advice to help you navigate the city like a pro. Whether you’re interested in shopping, sightseeing, or experiencing Shanghai’s unique blend of East and West, this guide will help you make the most of your journey in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.
