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. 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.
South Bund Fabric Market is one of Shanghai’s largest and most historic textile markets. It was once known as the Dongjiadu Market, a hub for fabric trading.
The market has three floors, each offering a wide range of fabrics. The first floor tends to be pricier, so it’s worth checking out the third floor for better deals. You’ll find everything from silk, cotton, linen, and wool to cashmere, synthetic fabrics, and even fur.
One of the best parts? You can get custom-made clothing—think qipaos, suits, coats, and leather jackets—tailored to your exact measurements. Many customers return regularly, and most orders are ready in just three days. If the fit isn’t perfect, alterations are free.
With a strong international reputation, the market is also foreigner-friendly. Many shop owners speak English, making it easy for visitors to browse, bargain, and order their perfect outfit!
The South Bund Fabric Market (南外滩轻纺面料市场）
Business Hours: 09:00 – 19:00
By Metro: Take Metro Line 4 to Nanpu Bridge Station (南浦大桥站). Exit at Gate 3, then walk for about 5 minutes to reach the South Bund Fabric Market. It’s a quick and easy route!
Add: 399 Lujiabang Lu, near Nancang Jie., Huangpu District 上海黄浦区陆家浜路399号, 近南仓街
2. Shanghai Qipao Shopping Guide
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.
上海滩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: 10:30 am- 8:00 pm
Mon – Sun: 10am – 10pm (including public holidays)
More Qipao Shopping Stores
Shanghai is the heart of qipao (cheongsam) culture, blending timeless elegance with modern creativity. Whether you’re looking for a classic handmade piece or a contemporary fusion design, this guide highlights the city’s best qipao boutiques. We’ve categorized them by style to help you find the perfect fit!
1）Heritage Brands – Timeless Elegance
🔹Manloulan (蔓楼兰)
Signature Style: Luxurious silk qipaos with Suzhou embroidery, crafted with precision. Each piece requires measurements from 36 body points for a flawless fit. Fully handcrafted, preserving the essence of Haipai (Shanghai-style) qipao.
Locations: Multiple stores listed below:
Zhapu Road Store (乍浦路店) – Located at 430 Zhapu Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai. Bailian Outlets Plaza Store (百联奥特莱斯广场店) – Found at C136, Bailian Outlets Plaza, Huqingping Highway, Qingpu District, Shanghai.
Huijin Department Store Xuhui (汇金百货徐汇店) – Situated at 1000 Zhaojiabang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai.
First Yaohan Store (第一八佰伴店) – On the 2nd floor of First Yaohan, 501 Zhangyang Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.
Price: ¥2,300-4,700 for custom qipaos; high-end embroidered designs can exceed ¥10,000
🔹 Hanyi Qipao (瀚艺旗袍店)
Famous For: This is where Maggie Cheung’s stunning qipaos in In the Mood for Love were made! Known for traditional hand embroidery and exquisite detailing.
Location: 217-221 Changle Road (near Maoming South Road) 长乐路217-221号号（近茂名南路）
Price: ¥1,500-3,000 for classic styles; ¥3,800-10,000 for embroidered designs
🔹 Longfeng Qipao (龙凤旗袍)
History: Originating from Zhu Linqing’s tailor shop in the Republic of China era, this brand is famous for handmade fabric buttons and decorative trims.
Two Locations: Ground Floor Shop, 207 North Shaanxi Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai;
942 West Nanjing Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai (near Taixing Road).
Price: Mid-to-high-end custom designs
2）Modern & Contemporary Qipao
🔹 FU SHENG Bespoke Qipao & Suits (馥胜旗袍西服高级定制)
Style: Youthful and chic! Short, above-the-knee qipaos with Western-style tailoring are particularly popular.
Location: 20F4, Hudong Financial Tower, 1128 Xiangyin Road, Yangpu District, Shanghai. 杨浦区翔殷路1128弄沪东金融大厦20F4
Price: Affordable custom options (¥1,000+)
🔹 2002 Haishang Qipao (Tianzifang Store) (2002海上旗袍店)
Highlight: A nostalgic boutique that offers qipaos made from innovative fabrics like Indian sari silk and Thai silk.
Location: No. 5, Tianzifang, Taikang Road 泰康路田子坊5号
Price: ¥400-900 for ready-made qipaos; ¥2,000 per rental
3） Designer Boutiques & Art Studios
🔹 Jinye Oriental (槿爷东方)
Style: A fusion of traditional Eastern beauty and modern minimalism, featuring hand-painted silk qipaos.
Two Locations: Room 2306, KB Modern Plaza, Xianxia Road, Changning District 长宁区仙霞路KB现代广场2306室;
Room 1080, 1st Floor, Building 2, 1858 Jinchang Road, Putuo District, Shanghai.
Price: Mid-to-high-end custom pieces
🔹 Gold Leaf Qipao (金枝玉叶旗袍店)
Innovation: Features hand-sewn sequin embroidery and silk scarves inspired by international fashion trends.
Location: 72 Maoming South Road 茂名南路72号
Price: ¥988-4,800
🔹 Liu Qipao (刘旗袍)
Unique Feature: Known for its “high side-slit” designs, creating a flattering yet comfortable silhouette—perfect for urban settings.
Location: 941 Jiaozhou Road, Putuo District 普陀区胶州路941号
Price: ¥1,500-9,000
3. 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 Jewelry City offers a wide variety of jade jewelry, with knowledgeable vendors who can help you choose the perfect piece.
Hong Qiao Jewelry City 上海虹桥珠宝城
Address: Hongmei Lu 3721, Changning District, Shanghai (上海长宁区虹梅路3721号）
Take Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station (七宝). From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to Shanghai Hongqiao Jewelry City.
Phone: +86 21 6262 6588
Jewelry Brands in Shanghai
Jewelry brands in Shanghai include Chow Tai Fook (周大福), Lao Feng Xiang (老凤祥), Yayi Gold Store (亚一金店), Chow Tai Seng (周大生), Chow Sang Sang (周生生), Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., Chaumet, and Buccellati.
Each brand offers unique product styles and craftsmanship to cater to diverse consumer needs. For example:
- Chow Tai Fook (周大福) specializes in jewelry made of gold, platinum, and diamonds, featuring stylish designs and exquisite craftsmanship.
- Lao Feng Xiang (老凤祥) focuses on gold and silver jewelry, excelling in silverware production. Its designs are distinctive and rich in traditional cultural elements.
- Yayi Gold Store (亚一金店) primarily offers gold jewelry, along with platinum and diamond pieces. The designs are modern and minimalist, with great attention to detail.
4. Shanghai Snack and Food Souvenirs
Bringing home a taste of Shanghai is a delicious way to remember your trip. From traditional pastries to iconic street snacks, the city offers a wide variety of edible souvenirs. These treats are not just tasty—they also carry rich cultural stories. Whether for yourself or as gifts, here are some must-buy local specialties!
| Chinese Name | English Name |
|---|---|
| 蝴蝶酥 Butterfly Pastry | A classic Shanghai pastry, known for its crispy and sweet layers. Made with imported butter and a low-sugar recipe, it’s a popular local snack. Where to buy: International Hotel Bakery, 28 Huanghe Road (queue in advance required). 黄河路28号国际饭店西饼屋 |
| 沈大成糕点 Shendacheng Pastries | Shendacheng is a famous old pastry shop in Shanghai, dating back to 1851. It’s well-known for its soft, chewy, and fragrant traditional treats. Where to Buy: Shendacheng Flagship Store, 636 East Nanjing Road 南京东路636号沈大成总店 |
| 上海哈尔滨食品厂杏仁排 Shanghai Harbin Food Factory Almond Crisp | The Almond Crisp from Shanghai Harbin Food Factory is a classic Western-style pastry with an old Shanghai charm. Made with wheat flour and butter, it’s topped with sliced almonds and baked to golden perfection. The result? A rich, buttery aroma and a delightfully crumbly texture—perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth! Where to Buy: 603 Middle Huaihai Road (Look for the red sign with gold lettering) 淮海中路603号（认准红底金字招牌) |
| 高桥松饼 Gaoqiao Pancake | A traditional Shanghai snack with flaky layers that melt in your mouth. Made with fine flour and lard, it is part of Shanghai’s intangible cultural heritage. |
| 梨膏糖 Pear Syrup Candy | A traditional herbal candy with a sweet, mild flavor and unique herbal aroma. Made with pear juice and monk fruit, it is known for soothing coughs. |
| 蟹壳黄 Sesame Pancake | A crispy sesame cake with sweet or savory filling. Made using traditional techniques, it has a rich sesame flavor and a crunchy texture. |
| 城隍庙五香豆 City God Temple Five-Spice Beans | A traditional snack made with “Three White Broad Beans,” seasoned for a salty-sweet flavor with a tender texture. Popular at the City God Temple. |
| 大白兔奶糖 White Rabbit Milk Candy | A nationally famous candy and childhood favorite, available in classic milk, yogurt, and red bean flavors. |
| 崇明糕 Chongming Cake | A specialty from Chongming Island and part of intangible cultural heritage. Light, fragrant, soft, and suitable for all ages. |
| 上海牌咖啡 Shanghai Brand Coffee | A quintessential Shanghai-style souvenir, the first canned coffee in China, introduced in 1958, and still a nostalgic favorite. |
| 七宝方糕 Qibao Rice Cake | A famous snack named after Qibao Temple. Made from glutinous rice with a soft and sweet texture, available in various flavors. |
| 唐饼家蛋黄酥 Tangbing Egg Yolk Pastry | A modern favorite, known for its buttery, flaky crust paired with smooth red bean paste and salty egg yolk. |
| 海上繁花糕点 Haishang Bloom Pastries | Shanghai-themed pastries with elegant designs and cultural significance, ideal for gifting to friends or clients who value presentation. |
These foods not only offer a delightful taste but also embody the rich history and cultural essence of Shanghai’s culinary heritage.
5. Shanghai’s Top Tea Markets and Specialty Shops
Shanghai is a paradise for tea lovers, offering everything from bustling wholesale markets to charming specialty shops. Whether you’re looking for premium Chinese teas, teaware, or an immersive tea culture experience, here’s a list of some of the best places to explore.
1) Comprehensive Tea Markets & Tea Cities
Shanghai Difute International Tea Culture Plaza (上海帝芙特国际茶文化广场)
📍 Address: 1165 Gonghe New Road, Jing’an District (Next to the courthouse)
📝 Why visit? One of the largest tea markets in Shanghai, this place is a haven for tea enthusiasts and traders alike. You’ll find a vast selection of teas from all over China, alongside coffee and hotel supplies. If you want variety and quality in one stop, this is the place to go.
Daning International Tea City (大宁国际茶城)
📍 Address: 1536 Gonghe New Road, Jing’an District
📝 Why visit? Spanning nearly 50,000 square meters, this tea market is home to over 300 merchants. It offers an incredible range of teas, including green, black, and oolong, with thousands of varieties to explore. It’s perfect if you love discovering new flavors and talking directly with tea sellers.
Shanghai International Tea Trade Center (上海国际茶叶交易中心)
📍 Address: 66 Xianxia Road, Changning District
📝 Why visit? More than just a marketplace, this center integrates tea trading, exhibitions, and storage. If you’re interested in learning about the business side of tea or want to see large-scale tea trade in action, this is a fascinating place to visit.
Shanghai Jinqiao International Tea City (上海金桥国际茶城)
📍 Address: 1711 Donglu Road, Pudong New Area
📝 Why visit? As one of the key tea trading hubs in Pudong, this market specializes in premium teas and teaware. Whether you’re looking for high-quality Longjing tea or a beautifully crafted Yixing teapot, you’ll find it here.
Hengda Tea Wholesale Market (恒大茶叶批发市场)
📍 Address: 500 Chengshan Road (728 Banquan Road), Pudong New Area
📝 Why visit? One of Shanghai’s largest tea wholesale markets, this is where businesses source their supplies. With a massive variety of teas available at competitive prices, it’s a great spot for bulk purchases.
Shanghai Datong Different Tianshan Tea City (上海大不同天山茶城)
📍 Address: 520 Zhongshan West Road, Changning District
📝 Why visit? This tea city combines retail and cultural experiences. In addition to selling a diverse selection of teas, it frequently hosts tea art performances. It’s an excellent place to soak in the beauty of traditional tea culture.
Shanghai Hongqiao Tea City (上海虹桥茶城)
📍 Address: 528 Jinhui Road, Minhang District
📝 Why visit? Conveniently located in the Hongqiao business district, this market is ideal for tea buyers looking for a quick and efficient shopping experience.
Shanghai Fengzhuang Tea City (上海丰庄茶城)
📍 Address: 1611 Cao’an Highway, Jiading District
📝 Why visit? Serving Jiading and the surrounding areas, this comprehensive market offers a wide selection of teas and teaware, making it a convenient stop for local tea lovers.
2) Specialty Tea Shops & Brand Stores
Huaxiangyuan Tea City (华祥源茶城) – Pu’er Tea Specialty Shop
📍 Address: 1038 Chang Road, Changning District
📝 Why visit? If you’re a fan of Pu’er tea, this shop is a must-visit. It specializes in Pu’er, offering a diverse range at reasonable prices. Whether you’re new to aged teas or a longtime collector, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
Tianzifang Pu’er Tea Specialty Store (田子坊普洱茶专卖店)
📍 Address: 549 Tianzifang Road, Huangpu District
📝 Why visit? Located in the charming Tianzifang area, this tea shop has a cozy, traditional atmosphere. It focuses on high-quality Pu’er tea sourced directly from Yunnan, making it a great spot for an authentic tea experience.
Dayi Pu’er Tea Experience Store (大益普洱茶体验店)
📍 Address: Various locations in Shanghai (check online for details)
📝 Why visit? This is more than just a tea shop—it’s a place to experience Pu’er tea culture. Here, you can taste and learn about different aging processes before making a purchase.
Shanghai Tea Import & Export Company / Teatime Garden Tea (上海茶叶进出口公司/茶恬园茶叶)
📍 Address: 147 Daming Road, Hongkou District
📝 Why visit? This store brings together a curated selection of premium Chinese and international teas in a spacious and professional setting. If you want high-end teas with trusted quality, this is a great option.
3) Other Regional Tea Markets
Mantangchun Tea Wholesale Market (满堂春茶叶批发市场)
📍 Address: Section 2, 1st Floor, 258 Pushan Road, Jing’an District
📝 Why visit? A bustling wholesale market catering to both businesses and individual buyers. If you’re looking for variety and good prices, this is a solid option.
Lianhua Tea Market (莲花茶都)
📍 Address: Next to Honghui Lianhua Plaza
📝 Why visit? A smaller yet well-stocked tea market with a good mix of premium and everyday teas.
Minxin Tea City (闵莘茶城)
📍 Address: 1500 Shuiqing Road, Minhang District
📝 Why visit? A local favorite in Minhang, offering a broad selection of Chinese teas at competitive prices.
Pudong Tea City (浦东茶叶城)
📍 Address: 33 Hangdu Road, Hangtou Town, Pudong New Area
📝 Why visit? One of the go-to places for tea shopping in Pudong, this market has a great mix of everyday and high-end teas.
6. Shanghai-Style Cultural & Creative Gifts
Shanghai is a city that blends tradition with modern creativity, and its cultural and creative (文创) gifts are a perfect reflection of that. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for unique souvenirs, these thoughtfully designed gifts bring the essence of Shanghai to life.
1) Shanghai Museum Cultural & Creative Gifts
The Shanghai Museum is home to some of China’s most treasured artifacts, and its creative merchandise beautifully combines history with modern design.
Top Picks:
- Bronze Tea Cup – Inspired by ancient Chinese bronzeware, this stylish cup lets you sip tea with a historical twist.
- Ding Ice Cream – A creative ice cream shaped like the famous Da Ke Ding (a bronze ritual vessel), making history delicious!
Where to Buy: Shanghai Museum Cultural & Creative Store, People’s Square 人民广场上海博物馆文创店
2) Wukang Mansion-Themed Souvenirs
Wukang Mansion, a historical landmark in Shanghai (also a starting point for Shanghai French Concession Walking Tour), is a symbol of the city’s elegant blend of Western and Eastern architecture. Its themed souvenirs capture the building’s charm in fun and collectible ways.
Must-Haves:
- Embossed Fridge Magnet – A mini 3D version of Wukang Mansion for your fridge.
- Vinyl Record Coaster – A retro-style coaster inspired by Shanghai’s jazz scene.
- Limited-Edition LEGO Model – A detailed brick model of this iconic building, perfect for architecture lovers!
Where to Buy: Wukang Mansion Cultural & Creative Store, 1852 Middle Huaihai Road 淮海中路1852号武康大楼文创店
3) Shanghai Memory Bookmarks & Paper Sculpture Gift Box
For those who love intricate craftsmanship, these paper-based souvenirs offer a stunning tribute to Shanghai’s skyline and culture.
Why You’ll Love It:
- 3D Paper Sculptures – Beautifully layered paper designs bring famous landmarks like The Bund and Yuyuan Garden to life.
- Perfect Pairing – Often packaged with local tea or pastries, making it a meaningful and elegant gift.
Where to Buy: Tianzifang Cultural & Creative Store, Xintiandi Design Shops 田子坊文创店、新天地设计商铺
These unique gifts are not just souvenirs—they’re pieces of Shanghai’s history, art, and charm, wrapped up in a keepsake to take home!
7. 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）
8. Recommended Shopping Places in Shangha
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.
Here’s the revised table with a more compact layout:
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| 南京路步行街 Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street | Known as the “No.1 Commercial Street in China,” featuring specialty stores, time-honored shops, and food stalls. Great for shopping and enjoying Shanghai delicacies. |
| 淮海路 Huaihai Road | A famous shopping street with high-end boutiques offering international luxury clothing, shoes, bags, and more. |
| 浦东新区 Pudong New Area | Hosts popular commercial zones and complexes like Pudong Art Museum and IFC Mall, especially vibrant during the “Double Five Shopping Festival.” TaiKoo Li Qiantan 前滩太古里：TaiKoo Li Qiantan offers a dynamic shopping experience with a well-planned layout. |
| 徐家汇商圈 Xujiahui Commercial District | A landmark commercial hub with a youthful, fashionable, and dynamic shopping ecosystem. |
| 上海老街 (豫园） Shanghai Old Street | A historic street near Yuyuan Garden with shops selling traditional handicrafts, antiques, and specialty foods like handmade fans, silk, tea, and ceramics. |
| 田子坊艺术街区 Tianzifang Art District | Tianzifang is a must-visit for art lovers and creative souls. This charming maze of alleyways is packed with independent designer shops, cozy cafés, and unique finds. You’ll discover hand-painted silk scarves, vintage décor, and rare cultural gifts. It’s the perfect place to explore, shop, and soak in Shanghai’s artistic vibe! |
| 虹桥珍珠市场 Hongqiao Pearl Market | Offers a wide range of jewelry, pearls, jade, and accessories. Ideal for finding personalized gifts or rare gemstones. |
| 南外滩轻纺面料市场 The South Bund Fabric Market | Famous for custom-made clothing and fabrics. Tailors can create garments in a few days. Offers scarves, dresses, and silk products. Address: 399 Lujiabang Rd, Huangpu. |
| 东方国贸批发城 Orient International Trade Wholesale City | Located in Baoshan District, this market provides affordable business and casual wear, suitable for wholesale and retail shopping. |
| 高端商场 High-End Malls | Includes luxury shopping centers like IFC Mall and Plaza 66, featuring international high-end brands for a premium experience. |
These locations and activities not only offer a wide range of shopping options but also allow visitors to experience Shanghai’s unique commercial culture and historical legacy.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.
