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Where to Shop in Shanghai

Written by Matteo Updated Apr. 8, 2025

Shanghai is a famous shoppers’ paradise, known for the last couple of centuries as "the Paris of the Orient”. Visitors go to Shanghai to see the city's pulse and history, as well as sample the myriad shops and stores. There are so many shopping centers in Shanghai that it is not easy to figure out the exact number of shopping centers in Shanghai.

Top Shanghai Shopping Malls or Markets

From electronics to designer clothes, food, entertainment, souvenirs, sporting equipment, or just a place to spend some time, Shanghai has a plethora of shopping centers designed to keep you busy and buying. The following is a list of the most interesting and unique places in Shanghai with general and specific shopping in mind. The names and addresses are included in Chinese for easy navigation.

Yuyuan Bazaar (AKA Yuyuan Old Street)

If you want to see a Chinese traditional market, you can’t ask for any better. Set in an old Shanghai neighborhood with traditional architecture, this crowded, bustling open marketplace has everything from food to souvenirs. Yuyuan Old Street shows what old and new Shanghai both have to offer.

Shanghai IFC Mall

For your modern, luxury shopping needs, there is the Shanghai IFC Mall. The mall is right on the Bund, so you can walk the elevated walkways, and see the Pearl and the Shanghai skyline. Here you will find designer brands as well as high-end Chinese, Cantonese, and Western food. The basement has a nice foreign supermarket with a good selection as well.

Shanghai No. 1 Department Store

Right off Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, This is the first large-scale state-owned Department store created after the founding of The People’s Republic of China. Looking for a little bit of everything? Look no further. With an area of over 70,000 square meters and thousands of kinds of merchandise, Number 1 has something for everyone. Luxury brands, economy brands, fitness equipment, cosmetics, jewelry, food, children’s products, and much more are all available here.

Shanghai Huanmao IAPM Mall

Famous for its night shopping, you will be able to shop here until the wee hours of the morning. Offering designer brands like Prada, Gucci, and a Michelin 1 Star restaurant, this mall offers a shopping paradise with nightlife.

K11 Art 11购物艺术中心

Luxury and designer shops are a dime a dozen in China these days. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, try K11. With a focus on art and unique shops, you can see restaurants growing their own veggies, and art exhibitions on the basement floors. When it comes to food, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Western restaurants, and multiple cafés are all to be found at the K11. This is a place you can come and hang out for a while for an interlude from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hong Kong Shopping Centre

The longest underground pedestrian street in Shanghai, the Hong Kong Shopping Center is located under the famous People’s Square. This shopping center is great for knick-knacks, souvenirs, clothing, gifts, and snacks.

Shanghai Times Square

For one-stop shopping, a great New Year's show (if you are there at the right time, of course), and 7 stories of retail shops, head here. This mall has the usual high-end stuff one might expect at a Shanghai shopping center: international luxury brands like Coach, Versace, and more, jewelry, electronics, fine dining, beauty products, and entertainment.

Shanghai Joy City

A shopping mall with a twist, Joy City is orientated a little more towards entertainment. There is a VR arcade, a Ferris wheel on the roof, and DIY concept stores. If you want to add some entertainment to the average shopping experience, Joy City is the place for you.

Bailian Outlets Plaza

Discounted luxury brands like Zara, Amani, Burberry, Ralph Lauren, and more populate this outlet mall. The whole plaza has 3 divisions, Zone A has high-end designer brands, Zone B has outdoor/sports and domestic brands, and Zone C is the dining and entertainment area. This place is especially convenient if you are a bit outside (southwest of) the city center.

Pacific Digital Plaza 2

Computers, tablets, phones, cameras, security cameras, security gadgets, gaming equipment, computer parts, monitors, speakers, electronics accessories and repairs are all offered here. Over 5 stories of electronics make this place a technological wonderland. As with any electronics store in China, verify that what you are buying works before exchanging money.

Pedestrians Streets

Shanghai Fruit and Vegetable Markets - Shanghai is known for its delicious street vendors and snacks on the go as well as some of the top restaurants in the country. However, not every meal has to be a big event. Shanghai boasts fruit and vegetable stands at seemingly every corner.

With so many options, and prices varying from high to low, it is hard to know which Farmers Market is best to visit. Fresher than fresh, it’s a real treat to check out the quality and variety of local produce.

Top 15 Shanghai Markets - Markets are where Shanghai people spend most time and money. They are places where visitors can see the real local life of Shanghai and also places that offer a variety of rarely-seen products.

Pedestrian Streets - Renowned pedestrian streets in Shanghai, where you can both buy good things and learn about the history of Shanghai.

Local Products - An introduction to the best local products in Shanghai

Nanjing Road

For almost all of China’s modern history, Nanjing Road has been among the country’s top commercial streets and certainly the premier in Shanghai. Nanjing Road was the first commercial street since sea traffic was economized in Shanghai.

Today, the highlight is Nanjing Road’s pedestrian mall on Nanjing Dong Road downtown. This is where modern and traditional retail intermix. There are more than 600 shops and stalls from old and new China alike with items to be seen such as food, clothing, shoes, toys, and much more, not to mention cinemas, theaters, hotels, restaurants, and beyond.

The most popular section is right next to The Bund pedestrian waterfront along the Huangpu River, also known as Nanjing Road East. Nanjing Road West, then, is more known for its high-end boutique selections hosting some of the world’s most significant commercial names. Shopping on Nanjing Road is certainly a must-do experience for all visitors.

Tips:

Huahai Road

Huihai Road is often considered the locals’ version of Nanjing Road. Like its sister commercial star, it is also a shopping paradise. Countless famous and beloved brands have their shops here peddling the latest in fashion and technology and more.

Huihai Road can be considered in 3 parts: the East, Middle, and West. The East (Xizang Nan Road to Chongqing Nan Road) is the first class business and financial center full of office buildings, technological centers, and think spaces.

The Middle part (Shanxi Nan Road to Chongqing Nan Road) is the zone for finding special commodities and niche items as well as large department stores and stores such as Lippo Plaza, Shui On Plaza, Central Plaza, Shanghai Square, Shanghai Times Square, Hong Kong Plaza, and K11. Internationally known brands such as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and others are also in the Middle part; this is perhaps the most popular section of Huihai Road. Finally, there is the Western part (Shangxi Nan Road to Changshu Road) where you can find the latest fashions and various fine handicrafts.

Another way that Huihai Road rivals Nanjing Road is in its night scene. Both are spectacular experiences at night, different from what you see during the daytime. The sea of neon lights and displays is colorful and lively, and there is even a “lights tunnel” that you can walk through. Here on both streets, one can see why Shanghai never seems to sleep.

Lastly, the cuisines and snack foods found on Huihai Road add to the street’s third dimension. There are outlets from fine restaurants to shops and stalls that serve up down-to-earth, traditional Chinese food. These local joints include Tangxuan Restaurant, Quanju De Restaurant, Wuyue People Restaurant, and countless more. Canglang Ting Restaurant, Yiteng Jia Restaurant, and others specialize in classic snacks.

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Xujiahui

Xujiahui, which is found in the southwestern section of central Shanghai, is one of the most prominent and significant modern commercial and transportation centers in the country. Although it does not have as long of a history as Nanjing Road, Xujiahui is part of the driving force that hopes to propel China into the future. There are 2 important computer markets and some large shopping centers that each cater to different and specific markets. Electronics are by far the products that most visitors come here to purchase.

Still, no matter what your budget is, you are sure to find shops in Xujiahui that cater to your preferences. For example, the Pacific Shopping Mall, Oriental Department Store, and Huijin Department Store are the ideal stops for high-end shopping and access to international brands. No. 6 Department Store, on the other hand, is a medium-range choice in the area.

In addition to shopping, the street is a hub for restaurants, entertainment venues, and much more all in one place. For example, there is a European-style food street on the first floor of the Ganghui building, and just opposite this street is Hongji Recreational Square where a mish-mash of international fare awaits such as Middle Eastern shish kebabs to Brazilian barbecue.

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Yuyuan Garden Commerce City

Yuyuan Garden Commerce City is considered the “kingdom of arts and crafts and small commodities of Shanghai.” Located very close to the Bund in the southwestern part of Shanghai, this area is the best stop for purchasing classic items such as antiques, jade wares, gold and silver ornaments, chopsticks, buttons silk threads, and more.

Nearby Yuyuan Garden itself is very well known for its classical layout and beautiful space including typical halls, springs, pavilions, and more. Around the garden is known as the Old City God's Temple, but today it is mostly visited for its tourist shops and wonderful views.

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Famous Market in Shanghai

Markets are where Shanghai people spend most time and money. They are places where visitors can see the real local life of Shanghai and also places that offer a variety of rarely-seen products. The only downside is that everyone at the markets speaks either local dialect or Mandarin. If you wish to explore these markets, just contact us for an English-speaking local guide and a private car.

Xiaochengguang Snacks Shop

This 20-year-old snack shop is a childhood memory for thousands of Shanghai people. Biscuits and milk from the shop are the favorite breakfast foods of myriads of locals. At the beginning of the 21st century, not so many youngsters went to the shop, because they thought it was out of date; but in recent years, more and more children have been going there to replicate their parent’s memories. That’s the most pleasant thing for the shop owner.

Location: No.105, Shanyin Road

Danchang Candy Shop

Chocolate, sugar plums, and coconut balls in the Danchang Candy Shop are all favorites with local people. Although the taste of the candies hasn’t changed, today’s children love them just as they used to.

Location: No.191, Dongan Road

Treasure Tower near the City God Temple

The Treasure Tower is one of the largest antique markets in China. Antique businessmen from all around China try their luck in the tower. Not all antiques there are authentic, though the 300 vendors in the tower will try their best to make customers believe they are. We recommend that tourists who are not knowledgeable about Chinese antiques should not buy anything in the tower unless they think it’s cheap.

Location: No.457, Fangbang Middle Road

Jingan Temple Jewelry and Curio Market

This is a luxury jewelry and curio market. Jade, teapots, wood carvings, furniture, and jewelry, from both China and Europe, can be found here. Besides, the favorites in the market to many foreign tourists are the traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy shops. Prices of the masterpieces there can easily exceed 10,000 RMB (1,538 US dollars).

Location: No.100, Luban Road

Check Local Shanghai Products out!

Hongqiao International Pearl City

Japanese sea pearls are the star product in Pearl City. All the shops will ask much more than the real value of the products. You have to bargain. Sometimes, it’s ok to ask for as much as 50% discount. To most people’s surprise, the salespeople in Pearl City speak very good English. They are willing to redesign pearl accessories according to customers’ requirements. Customers are also welcome to select pearls and string them together to make their accessories.

Location: No.3721, Senshengshiyang International Square, Hongmei Road

Laomiao Jewelry

Founded in 1906, Laomiao Jewelry has been one of the best jewelry shops in China for over 100 years. The most fashionable jewelry, gold or silver items, and crafts can be found here. Lots of new couples buy their wedding rings at Laomiao. Besides, the shop also sells exquisite gold vessels and favorite birthday presents for people senior in age.

Location: No.460, Nanjing East Road

Laofengxiang Jewelers

With a history of over 160 years, Laofengxiang Jewelers has set up over 40 shops in 30 cities in China. Their flagship shop is on Meilong Road. All the service staff wear black uniforms and white gloves. Their professionalism is reflected in their attitude. Most customers are not so knowledgeable about jewelry, but members of staff never express impatience. That is why so many local people buy jewelry in Laofengxiang, even though it is more expensive than most other jewelers in Shanghai.

Location: No.411, Meilong Road

South Bund Fabric Market

Shanghai South Bund Fabric Market, as the name might suggest, is the ultimate stop for buying fabric. It was opened on April 15, 2006. Three air-conditioned stalls offer a wide range of silk and fabric. The market has all of Shanghai's best tailors under the same roof. Wade through the mountains of fabric perfect for a design of your creation or the numerous samples on show. This is a perfect place for the person who enjoys sewing or wants to have beautiful clothes or home accessories custom-made. Remember: bargain hard for a fair price.

Location: South Bund Soft-Spinning Fabric Market (aka Shanghai Fabric Market), 399 Lujiabang Lu, near Zhongshan Nan Lu

Silk King

Renowned for high-quality silk and professional service, the Silk King is the first choice for local people who want to buy silk products. Cheongsam, scarves, and handkerchiefs are the premier products of the Silk King.

Location: No.588, Nanjing East Road

Wangjia Docks Silk Fabric Market

This is a top shopping destination during weekends. Thousands of foreign tourists go to the market not only to buy silk but also to observe local culture. It is interesting to watch and listen to Chinese people bargaining and talking in the Shanghai dialect.

Location: No.191, Nanchang Street

Besides, the Silk can also be found on the Shanghai Pedestrian Streets in Shanghai

Qipu Costume Wholesale Market Street

More than 10 costume wholesale markets are located in the mansions along this 680-meter-long street. Almost all brands and patterns of costume can be found here, but there are also fakes masquerading as the real thing. Customers are recommended to bargain first. If shop owners accept a discount of up to 50%, the products are not authentic.

For most international tourists, the street is a tourist attraction more than a shopping destination, for it has prospered with the costume trade for over 3 decades. It is now a great place for learning about local commercial culture. The small restaurants and milk tea shops on the street provide a comfortable context from which tourists can study the culture.

Location: No.303, Qipu Road

Fengzhuang Tea Square

There are over 120 tea shops in this square. Lots of the shop owners also grow tea in their hometowns, so there is no need to doubt their professionalism. They never push customers to buy, but they all have returning customers because they treat selling tea as an opportunity to make new friends. Customers can taste tea for free and owners will introduce the tea and how to drink it to customers. Most customers will learn to like both the tea and the owners during this introduction.

Address: No.1611, Caoan Road

Shanghai Mantangchun Tea Market

This market is not very large, but the variety and quality of tea are both satisfactory. Tea sets are a special feature of the market. The interesting culture of tea can be learned from tea sets. Customers will learn about tea culture as shop owners introduce tea sets. Often, it takes more than half an hour to make tea, but only 1 minute to drink it. That’s the Chinese tea culture.

Location: No.259, Pushan Road

Tianshan Tea Market

Tianshan Tea Market has three floors in total. It is also a good place for learning about tea culture. Shopkeepers like to introduce different kinds of tea to customers and you will have an opportunity to try some of your favorites. The tea price varies according to quality and brand; these should be checked carefully before purchase.

Location: No.520, west of Zhongshan Road

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