Shopping in China ranges from glossy malls with fixed prices to chaotic markets where the first price is a starting bid. The trick is knowing which is which: bargain in the wrong place and you'll get blank looks; pay the asking price in the right place and you'll overpay badly. Once you understand the etiquette, shopping becomes one of the most fun parts of the trip.
This guide covers markets versus malls, the souvenirs genuinely worth buying, how to spot fakes, where and how to bargain, and how the tourist tax refund works. Always confirm current rules and prices, since they shift.
Markets vs malls: two different games
The single most useful thing to learn is where prices are fixed and where they're flexible.
- Malls, department stores, chains and supermarkets: prices are fixed. Don't bargain; it isn't done and won't work.
- Tourist markets, stalls and small independent shops: bargaining is expected, especially in places aimed at visitors.
- Almost everything is paid by mobile QR code; set up payments first via our Alipay and WeChat Pay guide.
- Online shopping is huge, but for souvenirs the in-person hunt is half the pleasure.
What's actually worth buying
China makes wonderful, regionally distinctive things. Some standouts:
- Tea: superb and varied; buy from a proper tea shop where you can taste before you commit.
- Silk: scarves, bedding and clothing, especially around Suzhou and Hangzhou.
- Porcelain and ceramics: a centuries-old craft, from delicate tableware to art pieces.
- Regional crafts: cloisonne, paper-cuts, calligraphy, embroidery, jade and chopsticks.
- Tea connects naturally to food culture; see the food and dining guide.
Spotting fakes
Tourist markets sell plenty of counterfeit "brand" goods and fake antiques. There's nothing wrong with knowingly buying a cheap copy, but don't pay genuine prices for it.
- Assume branded electronics, watches and handbags at market stalls are fake.
- "Antiques" and "jade" are very often modern reproductions; only buy these as genuine investments from reputable, certified dealers.
- For tea, silk and ceramics, quality and price vary wildly. Buy from established shops if authenticity matters.
- Real exporting antiques can require permits; for serious purchases, confirm current rules.
How to bargain (and stay friendly)
Bargaining is a normal, good-natured back-and-forth, not a battle. Keep it light.
- Let them name a price first, then counter well below it; a common starting point in tourist markets is a fraction of the opening ask.
- Stay smiling and polite; aggression backfires.
- Be ready to walk away. Walking is your strongest tool, and you'll often be called back.
- Don't haggle hard over tiny amounts, and never bargain for something you don't intend to buy.
- Knowing a few numbers in Chinese helps; see our language barrier tips.
Tax refund for tourists
China offers a departure tax (VAT) refund scheme for overseas visitors on qualifying purchases.
- It applies to eligible goods bought from designated tax-refund stores, above a minimum spend, taken out of the country within a set time.
- Ask for the refund form and keep the original receipt at the time of purchase.
- You claim the refund at the airport or designated departure point, with the goods available for inspection.
- Thresholds, rates and eligible stores change, so confirm current details before relying on a refund.
Shop smarter with a local guide
The fastest way to avoid overpaying is to shop with someone who knows the real prices. A local guide steers you to authentic tea and silk, translates a fair haggle, and keeps you away from the markup traps aimed at tourists.
With HeroGuide you post your trip and verified local guides bid on it, so you can pick someone who knows your city's best markets and craft shops. Post your trip and shop with a local guide who knows the fair price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is bargaining acceptable in China?
Bargain at tourist markets, stalls and small independent shops, where it's expected. Don't bargain in malls, department stores, chains or supermarkets, where prices are fixed and haggling won't work.
What are the best things to buy in China?
Tea, silk, porcelain and ceramics are standouts, along with regional crafts like cloisonne, jade, paper-cuts and calligraphy. Buy tea, silk and ceramics from established shops if authenticity matters to you.
How do I avoid buying fakes?
Assume branded electronics, watches and handbags at market stalls are counterfeit, and treat market 'antiques' and 'jade' as modern reproductions. For genuine items, buy from reputable, certified dealers.
How much should I bargain down?
In tourist markets, let the seller name a price, then counter well below it and meet somewhere in the middle. Stay friendly, be ready to walk away, and don't haggle hard over tiny amounts.
Can tourists get a tax refund in China?
Yes. China has a departure VAT refund scheme for overseas visitors on qualifying purchases from designated stores above a minimum spend. Keep receipts and refund forms, and confirm current rules and thresholds.
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