Shanghai offers culture seeking travelers an unparalleled shopping experience that seamlessly blends tradition with the contemporary. Whether you’re exploring bustling silk markets, wandering historic alleyways, or marveling at the latest futuristic malls that punctuate the Shanghai horizon, this international destination transforms retail therapy into cultural discovery. From bespoke treasures crafted by artisans to avant garde flagship stores redefining luxury, here’s your guide to uncovering the city’s diverse shopping destinations and experiences.
>> Planning a Shanghai shopping expedition? Keep in mind you can now shop smarter with daily instant tax refunds up to RMB 20,000.
Every savvy shopper wants to know ways to make their shopping dollars go further. In Shanghai, it’s easy. Beyond its captivating blend of tradition and trend, Shanghai has introduced a game-changing perk that makes shopping here even more rewarding: the ‘buy now, refund now’ instant tax refund service. For international travelers, this means eligible purchases can now be refunded on the spot, without waiting until departure at the airport.
This newly upgraded system is part of Shanghai’s mission to create a more visitor friendly and seamless retail experience for visitors. Participating stores across major shopping hubs, such as Plaza 66, IFC Mall, and HKRI Taikoo Hui, are clearly marked and offer quick, convenient processing right at the point of sale or designated refund counters. That means goodbye customs counter queues and paperwork.
Here’s how it works.
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Once you’ve spent the required minimum amount (usually around RMB 200 – around USD 28 – at a single store), you can present your passport and make use of the in store refund facility. Refunds are offered in cash (RMB), to your credit card, or even via popular digital wallets, such as WeChat Pay or Alipay.
This service adds another reason to indulge in that silk scarf, artisan jade bracelet, or chic designer find. With instant rebates available, shopping in Shanghai isn’t just stylish, it’s savvy, smart, and satisfying too.
So whether you’re treasure hunting in the lanes of Tianzifang, or browsing flagship boutiques in Lujiazui, make the most of your retail adventure with Shanghai’s tax refund scheme. Every receipt could mean more cash in your vacation shopping budget.
Now that we’ve moved more dollars into your holiday fund, let’s jump into all things Shanghai shopping.
Shanghai shopping treasures
If you only ever visit one destination in China and Shanghai was it, you will have done well. Where some cities are bound by very specific local customs and culture, over the centuries, Shanghai has drawn on influences and trends to create what is perhaps the most diverse and interesting city in China. For the discerning shopper who is inspired by more than big brand names and designer marques, Shanghai delivers. Home to both artists and traders, you will find endless options to satisfy even the most particular taste.
Silk Creations: A touch of Shanghai elegance
In Shanghai, silk is more than a luxurious fabric. It’s a living expression of the city’s distinctive Haipai culture that fuses Eastern heritage and Western chic. Here, silk takes center stage as both a fashion statement and a cultural emblem, woven with stories of craftsmanship and creativity.
Wandering through the city, you’ll discover exquisite pieces that reflect Shanghai’s devotion to beauty and tradition. Iconic Longfeng Qipao, established in 1936, is legendary for its handmade, bespoke cheongsams that capture the grace of old Shanghai. Its famous Pankou knots, not merely buttons, but miniature artworks, are cherished for their delicate design and symbolic elegance.
If a modern keepsake with local flavor is more to your taste, the ‘City Walk’scarves crafted by Bai Yulan Silk, so named as a nod to Shanghai’s city flower, the white magnolia, are a perfect blend of style and sentiment. Haishang Siyun also offers a full range of silk pieces, from flowing garments to fine bedding and artworks crafted by hand, all rooted in cultural storytelling and quality design.
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For an immersive shopping experience, visit Silk King on Nanjing Road, a store loved by locals for high quality silks. Or browse the contemporary collections of The Shanghai Story, a brand that reimagines classic silk scarves with a fashionable, city chic twist. And for something truly indulgent, don’t miss Xiu Niang, a Suzhou originated brand known for its embroidered luxury silk gift sets and clothing. Paying homage to traditional embroidery artistry, a piece from here is truly an investment. Whether you’re after a timeless qipao, a bold accessory, or a meaningful souvenir, Shanghai’s silk creations deliver artistry and grace in every thread. (ps. The image is from the Shanghai Story.)
Art & Crafts: Handcrafted Stories of Shanghai
With bright lights and skyscrapers dominating Shanghai’s skylines, it can be hard to believe there is more, but don’t be fooled. Beyond glittering malls and bustling markets, Shanghai’s soul is stitched, carved, and woven into its traditional arts and crafts; each piece a living legacy of the city’s cultural richness and artisan spirit. Shanghai caters to those who seek an elegant keepsake and a deeper connection to local heritage, making these handcrafted treasures a beautiful way to collect stories and take a piece of Shanghai home with you.
Shanghai-style Papercutting
Shanghai-style Papercutting
Step into a world of intricate beauty with Shanghai-style papercutting, a modern twist on one of China’s oldest folk traditions. Unlike the singular red designs from the north, Shanghai’s papercuts are vibrant, layered artworks that depict scenes of daily life and the city’s incredible skyline, taking in everything from the Bund to the Oriental Pearl Tower. Find these delicate designs framed as wall art or transformed into greeting cards at Tianzifang or Yuyuan Bazaar. Fancy trying your hand at papercutting. Sign up for a hands-on workshop and create your own masterpiece.
Woolen Embroidery: Paintings in Thread
Woolen Embroidery: Paintings in Thread
For something truly unique and beautiful, explore the world of Shanghai woolen needlepoint tapestry, often referred to by locals as ‘paintings on fabric’. This remarkable craft blends Chinese embroidery skills with Western aesthetics to produce realistic vivid portraits, scenic vistas, and floral masterpieces to life, some requiring quite literally tens of thousands of delicate stitches. From small bookmarks to gallery-worthy wall art, these visually stunning creations, which could pass for photographs, are available at artisan stalls in Yuyuan Bazaar and the Shanghai Gift flagship store.
Gu Embroidery: Where the needle meets the brush
Gu Embroidery: Where the needle meets the brush
Exquisite and intellectual, Gu Embroidery is the only Chinese embroidery named after a family and is deeply rooted in Jiangnan literati culture. By combining silk threads with brushwork techniques associated with traditional Chinese painting, Gu Embroidery brings Song and Yuan dynasty landscapes, birds, and flowers to life in thread. These refined pieces reflect both scholarly elegance and artistic finesse, and are a poetic gift for collectors and culture lovers.
XuHang yellow grass weaving
XuHang yellow grass weaving
Eco conscious travellers will love XuHang Yellow Grass Weaving, a 1,000 year old tradition from Jiading District that transforms humble yellow grass into stylish, sustainable crafts. From woven tableware to straw animals and rustic handbags, each item integrates both skill and sustainability. Now designated UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, this craft is best appreciated at the XuHang Grass Weaving Museum. Alternatively, you can find your own special piece at Yuyuan Bazaar.
Jiading bamboo carving: Elegance in every etch
Jiading bamboo carving: Elegance in every etch
Delicate, intellectual, and imbued with history, Jiading bamboo carving dates back to the Ming dynasty and remains one of China’s most revered woodcraft traditions. Once the prized possession of scholars, these intricate carvings adorn incense holders, brush pots, calligraphy tools and more. Visit the Jiading Bamboo Carving Museum to admire the artistry firsthand and collect a timeless treasure that delicately conveys tales of classical Shanghai. More than just a souvenir, the contemporary incarnations of Jiading bamboo carvings provide the opportunity to experience the city’s living history firsthand.
Snacks & sweet treats: A taste of Shanghai delights
Whether you’re nibbling as you wander the city’s lively streets, or packing up edible treasures to bring home, tasting Shanghai is a delightful part of your travels. The city’s beloved snacks and confections are not only delicious, they’re full of history, nostalgia, and local flavor too. Ask any local and they’ll share their favorites – the memories that go with them.
Among the most iconic is the White Rabbit Creamy Candy (Da Bai Tu), a household name across China that has earned its place as an irresistible treat for generations. Wrapped in its trademark white and blue wax paper, this creamy, milky sweet is a must-try. The bonus? It doubles as a charming take home gift for little ones (or grown up big kids with a sweet tooth!).
Craving something crispy, comforting, with more of a Western influence? Try hudiesu, the Shanghai-style butterfly palmiers. Inspired by the European counterpart – afterall, expats from all over the world, including France, have made Shanghai home – these flaky delights have won the hearts of locals with their lightly sweet, buttery crunch. Purchase pre-packed to take home, or devour immediately!
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For a true bite of tradition, look to Shen Dacheng, one of Shanghai’s oldest pastry houses. Their signature sticky rice treat, which extends from soft green qingtuan to delicately stuffed shuangniangtuan and tiaotougao, are chewy, fragrant, and utterly nostalgic.
And for the adventurous? Well, we dare you to sample Ligaotang Shanghai Pear Syrup Candy, a heritage herbal sweet with soothing properties, or Chenghuangmiao Five Spice Beans, a savory, crunchy snack that blends broad beans with an unusual mix of traditional spices. It’s just the thing to enjoy with tea or on the go.
One memorable souvenir is Shenpu liquor filled chocolate. Why is it memorable? Well, it’s shaped like a miniature wine bottle. Both a sweet indulgence and a symbol of vintage Shanghai charm, these chocolates hold a special place in many childhood memories.
For a one stop foodie haven, head to the Shanghai First Foodhall (Di Yi Shipin Dian) on famous Nanjing Road. Here you’ll discover shelves overflowing with Shanghai’s most beloved snacks, pastries, and sweets. And if you’re still looking for more Shanghai sweet treats, immerse yourself in local life by joining the queues at the storied shops on Huaihai Road. A veritable mecca, locals flock to Guang Ming Cun, Lao Da Chang, and Shanghai Harbin Foodstuff Factory for all their daily favorites.
With so much to choose from, there’s no doubt that in Shanghai every bite tells a story. So while you may arrive hungry, you will definitely leave happy!
Beauty & Wellness: Shanghai’s timeless self-care secrets
From time-honored apothecaries to elegant perfumed soaps, Shanghai’s beauty and wellness traditions blend heritage, healing, and high-quality craftsmanship. Whether you’re a skincare aficionado or simply love beautiful things with a story, the iconic products we’ve listed here offer travelers the chance to return home with a memorable Shanghai indulgence.
A beloved name in Chinese skincare, Pechoin was founded in 1931. This pioneering brand remains a favorite for its gentle, herbal products designed to harmonise beauty and balance. Pechoin’s formulas draw from traditional Chinese medicine, offering a naturally nourishing skincare routine that has been relied upon by generations of women and men who value quality products.
Another classic is the Bee & Flower” Sandalwood Soap. Although locals may indulge for a touch of nostalgia, you can enjoy this gem, which was originally crafted in the 1920s, every day. With its rich sandalwood scent and signature paper packaging (it is still hand wrapped!), this soap has become China’s most exported bath product and is a beautifully practical souvenir.
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Wondering how to achieve that Asian beauty complexion? Perhaps pearl powder could be the answer. For centuries, pearl powder was treasured in China for its beautifying and calming benefits. Today, its many benefits are still sought after. It is said that Shenxiang Freshwater Pearl Powder not only helps brighten the complexion and fade skin pigmentation, but it also aids sleep and soothes the nervous system. In our books, it’s a perfect blend of cosmetic and wellness traditions in one product that completely justifies the indulgence.
There have been many claims to ‘magic water’ over millenia, but Shanghai locals solemnly swear by Liushen Florida Water. Yes, it’s affectionately dubbed ‘magical’ for its all-in-one uses, but with good reason. Luishen Florida Water acts as a cooling tonic, bug repellent, muscle relaxant, refreshing mist, and much more. This multi purpose phenomena finds its way into the travel essentials of local summer travelers. We think once you’ve tried this kind of magic, you’ll pack it too.
For a fragrant reminder of Shanghai, why not explore the Four Seasons fragrance series from the legendary Lei Yunshang medicine brand. Their scented sachets and reed diffusers are inspired by Chinese herbal traditions and evoke the shifting beauty of each season. Whether a thoughtful gift or some well deserved self-care, these popular fragrances will evoke treasured memories of your Shanghai holiday.
Pearls, Jade & Jewelry: Treasures from Shanghai’s timeless craft
In a city where elegance and heritage walk hand in hand, it’s no surprise Shanghai sparkles as China’s capital of jewelry and gem trading. With three national level trading markets for gold, diamonds, and gemstones, Shanghai offers a glittering array of precious finds, irrespective of whether you’re on the hunt for a gift filled with meaning or a stunning souvenir to cherish long after you’ve landed back home.
Start your treasure hunt with Lao Feng Xiang, China’s oldest and most iconic jewelry brand. Founded in 1848, Lao Feng Xiang is renowned for its intricate gold designs and symbolic motifs. Locals often bestow a Lao Feng Xiang gift upon newborns, brides, and loved ones as symbols of good fortune and enduring love, but there’s nothing stopping travelers from making one of Lao Feng Xiang’s treasures their very own.
Another destination for exquisite craftsmanship is Tianbao Longfeng – also known to locals as TBLF Jewelry). You’ll know TBLF by the long queues that grace the storefront because it seems jewelry lovers can’t get enough of its luxurious offerings of gold, diamonds, and jade. While cultural significance and beauty are inherent in every piece, we think there’s scope for creating a beautiful travel memory in a TBLF treasure, so don’t hold back if you feel so inclined.
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For a wider selection of jewelry houses and glittering storefronts, head to Nanjing Road, where Shanghai’s retail heritage meets contemporary luxury. And don’t miss the enchanting Chenghuangmiao area, where local artisans blend gold, silver, and jade into wearable art steeped in Chinese tradition. At Golden Palace Jewelry Wholesale Market (also referred to as Zijincheng – but not to be confused with the Forbidden City in Beijing), you’ll find a bustling hub for buying and selling everything from statement pieces to delicate keepsakes, making them perfect for collectors and gift givers alike.
Pearl lovers should make a beeline for Hongqiao International Pearl City, a favorite for in-the-know locals looking for strings of lustrous pearls, vintage accessories, and one-of-a-kind finds. It’s also a great place to pick up charming antiques and trinkets, making it a hidden gem for traveling treasure hunters.
Cultural & Creative Mementos: Take home a piece of Shanghai’s soul
Although there is an endless supply of mass produced souvenirs designed to entice travelers in China, with an eye for the unusual, it’s possible to find more than a ready supply of quality keepsakes. Think of them as tiny holders of your travel stories imbued with the energy of a destination. In Shanghai, cultural and creative gifts offer a beautiful blend of artistry, heritage, and imagination, making them the perfect way to remember your journey or share it with someone back home.
From fridge magnets inspired by famous Chinese painters to embroidered bookmarks, porcelain tea sets, and hand painted vases, these items capture the city’s rich cultural legacy with a fresh twist that reflects contemporary influences. Many are thoughtfully designed by local artists and craftspeople, giving each piece a personal and authentic touch.
What do our guides on the ground recommend? Make time to visit Shanghai Gifts, a boutique that curates a vibrant collection of tourism inspired creations, all with distinct Shanghai characteristics. Choose from silk fans with skyline sketches or calligraphy themed tea sets in timber boxes, Shanghai Gifts is a veritable trove of charming and meaningful mementos you will not find anywhere else. Thankfully, there is more than one location – Shanghai Gifts can be found at major landmarks, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, the East Building of Shanghai Museum, Daoxiangcun (The Bund Branch), Shanghai Book City, and Pudong Airport (the perfect last minute before heading home)
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For more treasure hunting, head to the artistic lanes of Yuyuan Bazaar, the charming alleyways of Tianzifang, or stylish corners of Xintiandi. These creative districts are brimming with specialty shops and craft boutiques where you can find unique pieces that tell Shanghai’s story in unexpected and delightful ways. In a city where old meets new at every turn, treasured mementos offer something more than a snapshot, they offer a reminder of your time in this fabulous city..
Porcelain: Timeless elegance in every piece
Delicate, refined, and seeped in heritage, porcelain is one of China’s most treasured art forms, and Shanghai is the perfect place to find exquisite pieces that blend tradition with modern elegance. Whether you’re an avid collector or simply looking for a meaningful gift, porcelain from Shanghai makes for a most desirable treasure.
For something truly luxurious, look to fine bone China tea sets and tableware from renowned local brands like Miracle Dynasty and Milandu. Their beautifully crafted mugs, cups, saucers, and dining ware exude understated elegance and make wonderful additions to any tea lover’s collection.
To dive deeper into the art form, visit the Shanghai Jingdezhen Porcelain Artware Co., Ltd on Shaanxi Road. More gallery than store, Jingdezhen will delight with its exquisite classic Chinese porcelain capturing centuries old craftsmanship in contemporary iterations. Equally enthralling is the Jingdezhen Ceramics Official Flagship Store in Shanghai Tower where you can discover curated handmade ceramic collections. From delicate teacups to statement designer pieces, each tells its own storm, steeped in the Jingdezhen legacy.
Shanghai brands: Icons of a stylish city
In a city known for its creativity and cosmopolitan flair, Shanghai’s homegrown brands shine as symbols of pride, innovation, and cultural continuity. Whether you’re picking up a meaningful souvenir or something practical with local flavor, these iconic names offer a lasting connection to the city’s unique story.
Shanghai Hero Fountain Pen
Shanghai Hero Fountain Pen
A staple on Chinese school desks for generations, the Shanghai Hero Fountain Pen is more than a writing tool. It’s a piece of Shanghai’s intellectual heritage. The Hero Ingenuity 100 gift set makes for a refined, nostalgic present that captures the elegance of handwritten expression in the digital age.
Shanghai Watches
Shanghai Watches
Providing a blend of timekeeping and storytelling, Shanghai Watches are a stylish tribute to the city’s industrial and design legacy. Each piece is a wearable work of art and is often inspired by vintage Chinese aesthetics and modern minimalism. A thoughtful gift for collectors and style savvy travelers alike.
Double Happiness (DHS)
Double Happiness (DHS)
If you’re a table tennis enthusiast, you’ll recognize Hongshuangxi, better known as DHS (Double Happiness). Born in Shanghai in 1959, DHS has become a global leader in table tennis equipment and a symbol of sporting excellence rooted in local pride.
Feiyue & Warrior Shoes
Feiyue & Warrior Shoes
Once everyday footwear, Feiyue and Warrior (Huili) sneakers are now retro-chic icons of Shanghai street style. With a cult following around the world, these shoes fuse nostalgia with bold design and are perfect for adding a pop of Chinese cool to your look.
Kai Kai Apparel
Kai Kai Apparel
Looking for timeless fashion with Shanghainese flair? Kai Kai is a trusted brand for well made shirts, sweaters, jackets, and suits. That makes them perfect for travellers seeking style with substance. With a blend of comfort, craftsmanship, and local reputation, a Kai Kai piece is a smart and stylish souvenir.
Chung Hwa Pencils
Chung Hwa Pencils
Every child in China grew up with the classic Chung Hwa HB pencil, affectionately known as the nation’s favorite writing instrument. Its simple design is iconic, making it a nostalgic and practical gift that’s both charming, collectible, and dare we say it in these day of tablets, phones and laptops – completely covetable.
Duo Yun Xuan
Duo Yun Xuan
Established in 1900, Duo Yun Xuan is Shanghai’s prestigious art and publishing house, renowned for its traditional watercolor woodblock prints. Explore beautifully crafted works of Chinese calligraphy and classical painting, ideal for art lovers and those seeking culturally rich gifts with lasting beauty.
From refined pens to fashionable sneakers, these brands are woven into Shanghai’s cultural fabric. They’re more than just products. They’re symbols of a city that celebrates heritage while embracing the future.
Exploring Shanghai’s Markets: Where culture meets curiosity
Beyond the glossy malls and luxury flagships, Shanghai’s markets are where real magic can be found. From ancient lanes echoing history to modern spaces pulsing with energy, there are numerous markets to be found. Discover hidden treasures, mix with locals, and take home a truly unique treasure for your trouble.
Yu Garden Bazaar
Nestled beside the stunning Yuyuan Garden, this iconic bazaar is a whirlwind of sights, scents, and sounds. Wander through its maze-like alleys and discover jade jewelry, silk fans, bamboo crafts, calligraphy sets, and porcelain teaware. Quite literally the perfect place to pick up cultural keepsakes, you won’t want to miss the xiao long bao stalls serving Shanghai’s most famous soup dumplings while you shop. By night, the area glows with lanterns and old world charm, creating a magical and memorable atmosphere.
Antique & Flea Markets
Huabao Lou, located in Yuyuan Bazaar, was once Shanghai’s first antique market, but has transformed into a curated hub of arts and crafts. Located in Xuhui district, Yunzhou Curio City is another wonderland for collectors, packed with porcelain, jade, old stamps, calligraphy scrolls, and wood carvings. For treasure hunters, Juqi Antique Market on Lingshi Road is Shanghai’s answer to Beijing’s Panjiayuan. Arrive early on Fridays to browse rare finds laid out on the ground for avid treasure hunters. And for something truly local, explore Yangpu Culture Flea Market in Yangpu district, open multiple mornings and brimming with quirky, vintage, and even bizarre relics of Shanghainese life.
Flower & Bird Markets
For a tranquil change of pace, visit the Lanling Flower and Bird Market on Lingshi Road. With 600 stalls selling everything from tropical plants to exotic birds, fish, and handmade bonsai, this market is a sensory escape into Shanghai’s quieter side. Or for the green thumb travelers, head to Ether Bloom, the city’s modern flower market at Ruihong Tiandi’s Hall of Moon. This lush, dual-level botanical space offers everything from rare plants and terrariums to art bookstores and tea rooms. More than a market, Ether Bloom is a lifestyle experience.
South Bund Fabric Market
Shanghai’s reputation as China’s style capital is well deserved. Tailors abound and holiday makers can enjoy their own slice of Shanghai style at this beloved destination for bespoke fashion. Whether it’s a custom qipao, striking business suit, or a replica of your favorite designer piece, the South Bund Fabric Market has hundreds of fabrics and expert tailors ready to bring your vision to life, often with same day fittings. Ready to level up your style? Time spent with a Shanghai tailor is the place to do it.
Qipu Road Markets
Bargain fashion lovers, this one’s for you. Qipu Road is Shanghai’s legendary clothing wholesale zone, where stylish finds come at unbeatable prices. With sprawling complexes like Qipu Road Clothing Wholesale Market, Haopu Clothing City and Xin Qipu Fashion Market, it’s easy to lose track of time – and your sense of direction! Bring your best bargaining skills, comfortable shoes, and an eye for bargains.
Shanghai International Eyewear City
Time to replace your rose coloured glasses? Then a visit to Shanghai International Eyewear City could be in order. A one-stop optical wonderland, it’s here you can have your eyes examined, choose frames, and have your lenses made – usually much faster than conventional optometrists back home. With hundreds of shops and unbeatable prices, it’s the perfect spot for fashionable eyewear and souvenirs you’ll actually use.
A.P. Plaza (Science & Technology Museum Market)
Hidden beneath the Science and Technology Museum Station, A.P. Plaza is Shanghai’s most famous ‘knock-off’ market. For designer brand lovers without the budget, A.P. Plaza is your playground. Expect to replica designer bags, watches, streetwear, electronics, and quirky souvenirs. Come forewarned and forearmed with a sense of fun and your best haggling prowess – because it will be put to the test.
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One special highlight at A.P. Plaza is the exceptional choice for bespoke tailoring. There is literally a smorgasbord of options to choose from, with many specializing in certain styles and fabrics. If you’ve always hankered for a Chanel jacket, a Princess Kate look alike dress, or a perfectly fitted Italian wool suit, then make sure your Shanghai tour includes a full day to experience the fun, care, and design savvy today’s Shanghai tailors bring to their craft.
Featured Wet Markets
Experience the rhythm of daily Shanghainese life at the city’s vibrant wet markets. Not far away from the bustling Middle Huaihai Road and the iconic Wukang Masion, Wuzhong Market, now a design-forward hotspot after a surprise feature in a Prada campaign, offers a clean, curated experience filled with fresh produce and local flavors. By contrast, Zhenru-Gaoling Market in Putuo district has evolved into a full community hub, complete with vintage-inspired decor, a food court, gym, and even a community center that merges old world charm and modern convenience.
Shanghai Shopping Precincts: Where style meets the city
Shanghai’s shopping streets are more than just retail destinations, they’re experiences in themselves. Each precinct is distinctive, woven from the threads of history, culture, fashion, and innovation. Whether you’re seeking luxury, authenticity, or a slice of local life, these neighborhoods offer a world of discovery for the dedicated traveling shopper.
Nanjing Road
No visit to Shanghai is complete without a stroll down Nanjing Road, the city’s most iconic shopping boulevard. Stretching from the Bund to West Yan’an Road, this bustling thoroughfare is split into two distinct characters: East Nanjing Road, a pedestrian friendly paradise of department stores, local snacks, and souvenir shops; and West Nanjing Road, home to high-end fashion houses and glittering luxury malls like Plaza 66, Jing An Kerry Center, and HKRI Taikoo Hui. It’s also where you’ll find cultural enclaves like Zhangyuan, Fengshengli, and Wujiang Road. Perfect for exploring the fusion of old Shanghai charm and contemporary style.
Huaihai Road
Preferred by local Shanghainese, Huaihai Road is where lifestyle meets luxury. This elegant avenue is lined with a mix of historic architecture and flagship boutiques, offering a more curated and culturally rooted shopping experience. Pop into trendsetting destinations like IAPM Mall, TX Huaihai, and the Shanghai K11 Art Mall, or explore the side streets of Changle Road and Maoming Road, home to bespoke qipao studios like Hanyi, Zhuangrong, and Manloulan.
Yuyuan & City God Temple Area
Located in Laochengxiang, Shanghai’s oldest neighborhood, this precinct combines heritage, shopping, and street food into one culturally rich experience. The winding lanes around Yuyuan Garden and the City God Temple are filled with shops selling silk, jade, tea, calligraphy, and traditional medicine. Historic brands like Lao Feng Xiang (jewelry), Tong Han Chun Tang (herbal remedies), Liyunge (classic Chinese fans), and Wang Da Long (scissors and blades) add even more authenticity to this vibrant area.
Tianzifang
Hidden in the narrow alleys of the French Concession, Tianzifang is a beloved haven for art lovers and design hunters. Its quaint lanes are lined with boutiques, craft studios, galleries, and inviting cafés, making it the ideal place to discover handmade journals, miniature oil paper umbrellas, and other artisan treasures. Amidst the melee of Shanghai’s 24/7 tempo, it’s here you can lose track of time and soak in the city’s bohemian spirit.
Shanghai Xintiandi
Shanghai Xintiandi blends Shikumen architecture with cosmopolitan flair to create one of the city’s most fashionable districts. This lively area is a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment, with malls like Xintiandi Style and Xintiandi Plaza showcasing designer labels and contemporary Chinese brands. Whether you’re enjoying an espresso in a renovated stone lane or browsing boutiques, Xintiandi offers a sophisticated slice of Shanghai life.
Wukang Road & Anfu Road
Known for leafy boulevards and understated charm, the Wukang-Anfu area is a favorite among locals for ‘citywalks’ and café hopping. Discover indie boutiques, concept bookstores, artisan bakeries, and art galleries, all set within historic villas and low rise buildings. It’s where culture meets creativity, perfect for slow travel and stylish finds far from the bustling main street and mall crowds.
Xujiahui
A vibrant retail nexus in southwest Shanghai, Xujiahui boasts some of the city’s busiest and most diverse shopping centers. With landmarks like Grand Gateway 66, Metro City, and Pacific Digital Plaza, it’s a go-to for everything from international fashion to the latest electronics. Popular with both locals and tech inclined travellers, Xujiahui pulses with energy day and night.
Lujiazui
Often referred to as the ‘Manhattan of Shanghai’, Lujiazui is a futuristic shopping playground set amidst soaring skyscrapers. Visit IFC Mall, L+ Mall, or Super Brand Mall for luxury brands, the latest tech gadgets, and premium lifestyle experiences. And after you’ve taken all that in, take a break at one of the highrise observation decks for panoramic views of the Bund and glittering Shanghai skyline.
Shanghai Shopping Malls: Glamour, Innovation, and World-Class Style
Shanghai’s skyline is populated by more than skyscrapers. It’s also home to some of the most stylish and diverse shopping malls in Asia. Yes, these glamorous spaces offer retail therapy. But they’re also home to luxury, modern culture, dining, entertainment, and art, all under one roof. Here’s a curated look at the city’s must visit shopping centers for fashionistas, foodies, and experience seekers alike.
IFC Mall
IFC Mall
Located in the heart of Lujiazui, IFC Mall is a sleek symbol of Shanghai’s modern luxury. With over 260 premium brands, many debuting their first or only stores in mainland China, this mall sets the bar high. Chic interiors, dazzling crystal chandeliers, and a curated mix of fashion, gourmet dining, and international art create a ‘palace-style’ retail experience. And the bonus for travelers? Tax refund services make it especially visitor friendly.
IAPM Mall
IAPM Mall
Located on Middle Huaihai Road, IAPM is beloved for its late night hours and blend of fashion forward brands, global cuisine, and IMAX cinema. This is the go-to for trendsetters and young locals. Landscaped terraces, fresco dining, and vibrant energy from morning to night give this chic destination its lifestyle appeal.
Jing An Kerry Center
Jing An Kerry Center
Just steps from Jing’an Temple, JAKC brings together shopping, lifestyle, and community under one luxurious roof. With over 200 high quality brands, international dining, entertainment options, and even a night market (find it on Anyi Road), this complex is more than a mall. It’s a cultural landmark in one of Shanghai’s busiest commercial zones.
Xintiandi Style
Xintiandi Style
Located in the heart of Xintiandi, this boutique-style mall focuses on Chinese original designers and creative concept stores. From emerging fashion labels to immersive art spaces and local Gen-Z brands like ALTER and KNOWIN LAB, it’s a playground for young modern shoppers with an eye for the unique and unusual.
Grand Gateway 66 Plaza
Grand Gateway 66 Plaza
In Xujiahui, Grand Gateway 66 is an upscale destination with international fashion, fine jewelry, electronics, and more. This five-star mall constantly refreshes its offerings with flagship and first stores, creating a dynamic mix that keeps visitors coming back for inspiration—and shopping.
HKRI Taikoo Hui
HKRI Taikoo Hui
Straddling West and East Nanjing Road, this stylish complex is a favorite for shoppers seeking flagship stores, high-end dining, and curated experiences. Highlights include the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, IWC flagship, and the recent Louis Vuitton ship-shaped boutique—a must-see for LV design lovers.
K11 Art Mall
K11 Art Mall
More than a mall, K11 is China’s first art-meets-retail experience center. Located on Huaihai Road, it pairs fashion and lifestyle brands with an inhouse art gallery (chi K11), hosting exhibitions, workshops, and performances. If you love creativity, culture, and a healthy side of fashion, this is your spot.
Plaza 66
Plaza 66
Home to the crème de la crème of global luxury – think Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Cartier, and more – Plaza 66 is Shanghai’s answer to Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive. Elegant and elite, this West Nanjing Road landmark is all about prestige and polish. If the shopping is out of your budget, then make the trek for the parade of selfie-ready beautiful people.
Shanghai No. 1 Department Store
Shanghai No. 1 Department Store
A living museum of retail history, this heritage mall on East Nanjing Road was established in 1936 and still shines as a shopping destination. After its stunning renovation, it now features a nostalgic exhibition of old Shanghai, a gift shop of long time favoured brands, and immersive entertainment zones. It’s the perfect blend of history, culture, and commerce.
The wrap up
Regardless of your budget, interests, style, or taste, there is something for every holiday maker who visits this city on a Shanghai tour or layover. With the option for visa free 240 hour holidays in China, there’s every reason to plan a Shanghai shopping adventure now. Contact our friendly team today to curate your tailored Shanghai adventure.