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Guide to Chinese Souvenirs by City

Updated: 2024-07-01

China offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and unique regional products, making it an ideal destination for souvenir shopping. This guide provides an overview of the best souvenirs and where to buy them in Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Guilin.

Beijing

Beijing Roast Duck: An iconic dish of Beijing, roast duck is beloved for its crispy skin and tender meat. Vacuum-packed roast duck is available for purchase, allowing you to share this delicious specialty with friends and family back home.

Cloisonné Enamelware: This traditional Beijing craft is renowned for its intricate production process and stunning appearance. Small decorative pieces or jewelry make for both collectible and visually appealing souvenirs.

Peking Opera Souvenirs: Peking Opera is a cultural symbol of Beijing. Souvenirs such as Peking Opera masks, figurines, and performance recordings provide a deep insight into this art form's charm, making them excellent gifts.

Where to Buy:
Panjiayuan Antique Market: Offers a wide range of antiques, crafts, and traditional items.
Silk Market: A popular destination for traditional Chinese goods, including silk and cloisonné.

Xi'an

Terracotta Warrior Replicas: These miniature versions of the famous Terracotta Army make impressive souvenirs, ranging from small figurines to life-size statues, each with unique characteristics.

Terracotta Warrior Replicas

Shadow Puppets: Originating in Shaanxi, shadow puppetry is a traditional folk art. The intricate designs make for fascinating decorative pieces or gifts.

Paper Cutting: This traditional folk art from Shaanxi, especially popular in the northern region, features bold designs and vibrant red colors, symbolizing good fortune and happiness.

Paper Cutting

Where to Buy:
Shuyuanmen Ancient Cultural Street: Known for calligraphy, paintings, and traditional crafts.
Muslim Quarter: Offers a range of local snacks and unique souvenirs reflecting the city's diverse culture.

Shanghai

Silk Products: Shanghai is renowned for its high-quality silk. Items such as scarves, ties, and clothing blend traditional craftsmanship with modern style, making them perfect gifts.

Snow Cream: A classic Shanghai product, snow cream is known for its effectiveness in preventing chapped skin. Its history dates back to the early 20th century, making it a nostalgic and practical souvenir.

White Rabbit Creamy Candy: This iconic candy, with its pure milk flavor and chewy texture, is wrapped in edible rice paper and has been a favorite since its introduction in 1959.

Where to Buy:
Nanjing Road: One of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of traditional and modern goods.
Tianzifang: A trendy area with narrow alleyways filled with shops selling unique art and fashion items.

Chengdu

Shu Brocade: Originating in the Warring States period, Shu brocade has over 2,000 years of history. This silk jacquard is known for its bright colors and intricate patterns, making it a valuable souvenir.

Hotpot Base: Chengdu is famous for its spicy hotpot. Bringing home authentic hotpot base allows you to recreate this culinary experience. Brands like "Huangcheng Laoma" are particularly popular.

Panda-themed Souvenirs: Chengdu is home to the giant panda, and panda-themed items such as plush toys, clothing, and accessories are widely available and make delightful gifts.

Panda-themed Souvenirs

Where to Buy:
Chunxi Road: A bustling shopping street with a variety of stores selling panda memorabilia.
Jinli Ancient Street: A historical street with shops offering traditional snacks and crafts.

Hangzhou

West Lake Longjing Tea: As one of China’s most famous green teas, Longjing tea is prized for its delicate flavor and beautiful appearance. It makes an excellent gift that represents Hangzhou’s rich tea culture.

West Lake Lotus Root Powder: This traditional food is made from lotus roots grown in West Lake. It’s easy to prepare and offers a unique taste of Hangzhou.

Longquan Celadon Lotus Rhyme Tea Set: Inspired by the lotus flower, this tea set combines aesthetic beauty with practical use. The inclusion of the Hangzhou Asian Games logo makes it a collectible souvenir.

Where to Buy:
Hefang Street: A historic street with shops selling traditional crafts and local specialties.
Hangzhou Silk City: The best place to buy high-quality silk products.

Guilin

Guilin Rice Noodles: Known for their unique preparation and delicious taste, Guilin rice noodles are a popular local snack. They come with various condiments that enhance their flavor.

Longji Tea: Produced in the high-altitude regions of Guilin, Longji tea is known for its fresh, aromatic flavor. It’s a sophisticated gift for tea lovers.

Yongfu Luo Han Guo: This fruit is famous for its health benefits, including soothing the throat and clearing the lungs. It can be used directly or brewed into a sweet herbal tea.

Where to Buy:
Zhengyang Pedestrian Street: A popular shopping area with a variety of stores selling local products.
Guilin Night Market: Offers a wide range of souvenirs, local snacks, and handicrafts.


Shopping Tips

Bargaining Tips: Bargaining is common in many markets and smaller shops. Start by offering a lower price and negotiate politely.

Recognizing Authentic Products: To ensure authenticity, research beforehand, check for quality, and shop at reputable stores.