Best Places For Shopping in Chengdu - Things To Do in Chengdu

Wondering what things to do in Chengdu tours? Fed up with shopping in heavily modernized markets? Consider go shopping in markets that locals go for everyday life! One highly recommended things to do in Chengdu is to visit its three markets - a million products at low prices.

Located in Chengdu urban area, these markets are widely popular among Chengdu residents. Generally, locals go shopping in these places at least once a year whatsoever, especially Chengdu Lotus Markets, the most famous one all over Sichuan.

Even if you're not out for buying, hang out and take a look at the products. Shopping in Chengdu is FUN! You may not get cool techie staff in these markets, but you are compensated by a taste of local's life.

Lotus Wholesale Market 

It's a huge comprehensive wholesale market in southwest China. As for the purchase of bulk goods, Chengdu Lotus Market must be the local's preferred choice.

Also, it's a good place for travelers exploring things like decoration in China. You can bargain with the guide's help with the price.

If you intend to go there, you'd better prepare light and follow a guide because it is very large and you may get lost inside. It was located near the North Train Station. Note that it has been moved to Xindu District in northern Chengdu. 

Getting There: Navigating to the Market

Reaching the Lotus Wholesale Market is very easy, thanks to Chengdu's wonderful public transportation system. If you're coming from the city center, the most convenient way is to take the metro. Board Line 3 towards the Xindu direction and alight at the Xindu Metro Station. From there, local buses or a short taxi ride will get you to the market's entrance. Alternatively, for those preferring a direct route, taxis and ride-sharing services offer a straightforward, though more costly, option. 

What to Buy

The Lotus Wholesale Market is the best place for those who want to buy in bulk or someone who wants to find rare and unique items for a very discounting price. From fashion apparel, accessories, and textiles to electronics, home decorations, and traditional Chinese handicrafts, the variety is endless. Special sections of the market are dedicated to specific categories, making it easier for visitors to navigate their way through the extensive array of offerings.

Good to know

• Bustling Atmosphere: Expect a lively environment filled with activity.
• Daily Specials: Vendors announce their specials, adding to the vibrant market scene.
• Haggling: Shoppers engage in bargaining to get the best deals, a common practice.
• Well-Organized Space: Despite its large size, the market is orderly with clearly defined sections and aisles.
• Bargaining is Key: Prepare to negotiate prices; it's a standard part of the shopping experience.

Best Time to Visit: Beating the Crowds

• Early Arrival: Be there early in the morning, right when the market opens, for the best selection and to avoid crowds.
• Weekday Visits: Opt for weekdays to experience a less crowded market, making it easier to navigate and shop.
• Avoid Holidays and Weekends: These times attract more visitors, leading to increased foot traffic.

Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit

• Pack Lightly: With the extensive ground to cover, it's best to bring only essentials to navigate the market comfortably.
• Follow a Guide: Considering the market's size and the potential language barrier, hiring a guide or joining a tour can enrich your experience, helping you to uncover hidden gems and negotiate better prices.
• Stay Hydrated: The market can be overwhelming, so carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated as you explore.
• Cash is King: While some vendors may accept digital payments, cash is universally accepted and can sometimes be a bargaining chip for a better deal.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be on your feet for hours, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Songxianqiao Antique Market

All antique lovers must visit China's second-largest antique market.

The market is a 3-story building, some reputed artists and vendors not only sell but also tell you some suggestions about products you want to buy.

There are over 500 separate stalls where it is a good place to buy watercolor paintings, embroidered silk, and curios. It is located at No. 22 Huan Hua North Road, near Wu Hou Temple.

How to get there

Reaching the Songxianqiao Antique Market is an easy feat within Chengdu's well-connected urban landscape. For those opting for public transport, numerous bus lines stop near Huan Hua North Road, providing convenient access to the market. Alternatively, a taxi or a ride-sharing service offers a direct route to this antique hub, dropping you off right at the doorstep of historical exploration.

What can you find there

With over 500 individual stalls spread across its three floors, the market is a paradise for those in pursuit of unique finds. From intricately embroidered silk, captivating watercolor paintings, and an eclectic mix of curios, to vintage jewelry, ceramics, and even rare books, the range of items on offer is vast. Each stall tells its own story, with vendors who are often artists or connoisseurs themselves, eager to share insights and histories behind their treasures.

Shopping Experience

What sets the Songxianqiao Antique Market apart is the experience it offers. It's not merely a place to buy antiques; it's an opportunity to engage in the rich tapestry of Chinese history and art. Vendors are known for their willingness to share stories and offer suggestions, turning each purchase into a meaningful exchange. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious visitor, the insights offered by these reputed artists add depth to the treasures you may find.

Tips for Visitors

• Timing Your Visit: The market is most vibrant during the weekends when the full array of stalls is open. However, for a more relaxed browsing experience, consider visiting on a weekday.
• Haggling is an Art: Bargaining is expected and is part of the fun of shopping at the Songxianqiao Antique Market. Respectful negotiation can lead to acquiring unique items at reasonable prices.
• Verify Authenticity: While many genuine antiques are available, it's wise to have some knowledge or consult an expert if you're aiming for high-value purchases, as replicas are also common.
• Be Respectful: Remember, many of these items hold cultural significance. Approach each stall with respect for the culture and history it represents.

• Cash Over Cards: While some vendors may accept digital payments, cash is generally preferred and can sometimes help in negotiating better prices.
• Stay Hydrated and Energized: With so much to see, remember to take breaks, hydrate, and perhaps enjoy a snack to keep your energy levels up.

Xingzhongxing Commercial Market

This place is all of the Chengdu young chick's dream shopping heaven! Even if it's the most crowded one, people still endure a bad environment and are eager to buy all the things they want that are in fashion.

You can buy top in-fashion clothes, shoes, accessories and many things in the stalls. The market has 3 floors but the most popular one is on the first.

Also remember to bargain and check the quality of the items. It located on No. 139, Upper East Street in Chengdu Jinjiang District, which is very near Chunxi Road.

How to Get There

Travelers can easily reach the market by taking the metro to Chunxi Road Station and enjoying a short walk, immersing themselves in the lively streets of Jinjiang District along the way. Buses and taxis also frequent the area, offering convenient options for those coming from farther afield.

What You Can Buy

Xingzhongxing Commercial Market is a treasure trove of in-fashion clothing, shoes, accessories, and more. The ground floor, in particular, is renowned for its wide selection of trendy items, drawing the largest crowds for its array of stylish finds. From cutting-edge streetwear to chic accessories, the market caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Good to know

• Bustling Atmosphere: The market is known for its lively environment.
• Lively Bargaining: Engaging in price negotiation with vendors is encouraged.
• Inspect Quality: Amidst the bargaining, examining the item's quality is essential.
• Savvy Shopping: Wise shoppers evaluate products for craftsmanship and durability.
• Fashionable and Lasting: The goal is to secure items that are both trendy and durable.

When to Visit

For a more comfortable shopping experience, consider visiting the market on weekdays, when the crowds are thinner, and navigating the aisles is easier. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally less hectic, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the market's offerings. Weekends and holidays, while bustling with energy, can be overwhelming due to the increased foot traffic.

Tips: 

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Expect to spend several hours on your feet, exploring the vast array of stalls and floors.
• Bring Cash: While some vendors may accept digital payments, cash transactions can sometimes facilitate easier bargaining.
• Patience is Key: The crowded and chaotic environment requires patience. Take your time to explore and discover the best deals.

Visiting these three markets is a great choice when shopping in Chengdu. Maybe you not have heard about these three markets or you haven't experienced bargaining in a crowded environment.

It is certainly worth taking your time - it is one of the fun things to do in Chengdu. Take water with you and follow a guide who can help you bargain. Read more about what to buy at Shopping in Chengdu.