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. 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
2. 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)
More Guide to Buying Qipao in Shanghai
- Qipao Shop in Front of the Erdos Building on Fuyou Road (福佑路鄂尔多斯大楼前的旗袍店)
- Operated by a friendly Sichuan auntie, this shop offers qipao at a range of prices: children’s qipao start at just ¥39, youth styles are specially priced at ¥99–169, and qipao for middle-aged and older customers cost around ¥200.
- The owner is very welcoming, and customers are encouraged to try on the dresses.
- Qipao Boutiques on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街的旗袍专卖店)
- These shops feature exquisite and elegant qipao, popular among foreign visitors.
- Staff provide detailed explanations about each qipao’s design and its story, offering a glimpse into the elegance and charm of traditional Chinese femininity.
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 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
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. 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
More Recommended Tea Shops in Shanghai
- Sanbao Tea City (三宝茶城)
- Located in Huangpu District, it is Shanghai’s largest urban tea market, especially suitable for buying Pu’er tea.
- The shop offers a wide range of Pu’er tea grades at reasonable prices. Professional tea culture experts and tea artists are available to provide tasting experiences and help you better understand and select tea.
- Longhua Tea City (龙华茶城)
- Located at 3699 Longhua Road, Xuhui District, this large tea-themed shopping mall combines tea sales, tea art performances, and leisure tea-tasting.
- It offers a wide variety of high-quality teas, along with tea sets and gifts to choose from.
- Shilianhua Tea City (世联华茶城)
- Located at 560 Zhanglu Road, Pudong New Area, it is another large mall integrating tea sales, tea art performances, and tea-tasting leisure.
- The shop offers a diverse selection of high-quality teas, making it ideal for visitors interested in tea culture.
- Global Tea Center (大国际茶都)
- Located at 1008 Zhenbei Road, Putuo District, this large tea mall also combines tea sales, tea art performances, and tea-tasting leisure.
- It features a rich variety of high-quality teas, perfect for tea culture enthusiasts.
5. Shanghai Snack and Food Souvenirs
Taking home a taste of Shanghai is always a good idea. These popular local food items make perfect gifts:
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 沈大成礼盒 Shendacheng Gift Box | Features a variety of Shanghai pastries like Dingsheng Cake, Yunpian Cake, Shortbread, and Mung Bean Cake. Elegantly packaged, perfect for gifting. |
| 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.
6. 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）
7. 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.” |
| 徐家汇商圈 Xujiahui Commercial District | A landmark commercial hub with a youthful, fashionable, and dynamic shopping ecosystem. |
| 上海老街 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. |
| 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
