Chengdu Shopping
Chengdu is known by visitors not just for its spicy, delicious food, but also for shopping. Though not as popular as Hong Kong when it comes to shopping, Chengdu’s retail industry is thriving.
Shopping Areas
Below is Chengdu’s must-visit shopping areas:
Chunxi Road
The Chunxi Business Zone is one of the most popular shopping districts in Chengdu. It used to be just a single pedestrian street that was later converted into shopping haven. From local products to international brands, tourists can find everything what they are looking for there.
Chunxi Road is where you can find the megamalls that sell everything you can think of. These include local apparels, imported goods, sporting equipment, bamboo products, lacquer wares, and even Shu Brocade; a local craft from mulberry growing and silkworm breeding.
Two of the largest Japanese megamalls are also found here – the Ito Yokado and Isetan. They carry big-name brands, electronics, and Asian food. You’ll find sukiyaki, sushi, and other Japan’s great dishes.
Song Xian Qiao Antique and Art Market
Travelers who are looking for antiques, paintings, sculptures, classic Mao memorabilia, old money, odds and ends for an eclectic home may head to Song Xian Qiao Antique and art market that holds expansive collection of art. This is a 20,000 square meter market that accommodate up to 800 different vendors.
One can find the workshops of several Sichuanese artists who have travelled not just around China but also all over the world to attend conferences and exhibitions. Their original works sell for $3,000 and over.
List of Markets for Handicrafts and Crafts
Sichuan Arts and Crafts Store
Shu Brocade Factory
Bamboo-weaving Arts and Crafts Factory
Classics Bookstore
Sinchuan Antique Shop
Lacquer wares Factory
Hehuachi Distribution Center
MixC
This new megamall is quite difficult to get to as it is located on the east side of the city however, if you make the trip, be assured that you will not be disappointed. This is because this megamall offers the best retail selection in Chengdu. Just like other megamalls, MixC offers everything what you’re looking for. From bags to accessories, to gadgets, you name it, MixC got it.
Qing Shi Qiao Art, Flower and Pet Market
Your Chengdushopping experience wouldn’t be complete without giving this market a visit. This one offers an unusual mixture of goods. Here you’ll find variety of stone, wood, porcelain sculptures and crafts, landscape paintings, jade stamps, calligraphy, and Buddha figures. If you’re in the mood to buy some flowers, head to Xinkai Jie where you’ll find stores selling different types of flowers and even cacti.
You can also buy local products there that are great souvenirs. Some of the must-buys are:
Shu Brocade–Shu means mulberry and silkworm breeding. Shu Brocade comes in various colors and they are made by extracting colors from plants using unique Chinese techniques. These products look like wash paintings and Chinese ink that were embroidered on Satin. Shu embroidery in Chengdu is known for superb craftsmanship.
Lacquer wares–Lacquer wares sold in Chengdu are popular for their ability to resist aging and corrosion. They are extremely well made and durable as they are made using 72-procedure technique.
Bamboo and silver inlaid products–These are made using silver threads on silver background. They are delicately shaped and usually used on screens, vases, and tea wares. Bamboo products, on the other hand, are common household decorations. Bamboo products that you can buy are baskets, fans, and bamboo sticks.
Women's Market
As the name suggests, this market offers everything a woman can possibly look for. Any kind of jewelry, clothing, accessories, bags, and shoes can be easily found here. The market is a two-floor maze of little shops and tiny wall stalls. Most of these stalls offer similar products but if you stay for a little longer, you’ll surely be able to grab great finds. Bargaining is certainly most welcome here as the first price that sellers would usually quote is very high. Cutting the price up to 50% should be the first phase of the negotiation.
Chengdu Street Market
Ran Fang Road
Most of the merchandise there such as clothes and accessories, are mostly for women.
Cell Phone Street
Travelers can find all kinds of cell phones here for unbelievably low prices. Brand-new and second hand phones are available here. Don’t forget to haggle and pay close attention to quality.
Street Market
This is a night market where you can buy all kinds of special or weird things.
