In
the early 19th century, the port of Guangzhou (Canton) was one of the world’s
most cosmopolitan cities, offering tea, silk, porcelain, and other luxury
goods for international trade. Specially appointed Chinese merchants were
engaged with traders from Europe, America, and the Middle East, trading over
luxury goods such as fragrant tea, fine silks, and nankeen-- a durable
yellow cotton. Since then Chinese Products have gained world class
recognition and in the great demand all over the world.
Shopping Jewels of China
Silk
China is famous for its quality silk products, all over the world with its
diverse colors and variety. Hangzhou, Sichuan, Suzhou and Dandong are famous
for their silk products.
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Tea
Another specialty of China is its ‘Tea’. Chinese tea is available
in many varieties like green tea, black tea, brick tea, scented tea, and
oolong tea. Some of the branded tea famous all over the worlds are --
Longjing produced near West Lake, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Huangshan Maofeng from Mt. Huangshan in Anhui
Qimen Black Tea from Qimen County in Anhui
Liuan Guapian from Liuan County in Anhui
Duyun Maojian from Duyun Mountain in Guizhou
Wuyi Rock Tea from Wuyi Mountain in Fujian
Wines and Spirits
Wines and Spirits have gaining world popularity over a period of time. Some
of these erotic drinks have won many international awards as well-
Gujing Tribute Liquor from Anhui
Maotai and Dong Liquor from Guizhou
Fenjiu Liquor from Shanxi
Souvenirs and Gift items
The item includes Bronze Ware, Folk Toys, Kites, Lacquer Wares,
Paper-Cutting, Porcelain Pottery, Seals, Embroidery and Printed and Dyed
Fabrics.
Porcelain made in Jingdezhen and Jiangxi, embroidery from Suzhou, Hunan,
Guangdong and Sichhuan, Tang tri-color pottery horses and camels, and batik
from Guizhou and Yunnan are all have high demand in the international
market.
Antiques Items
Antique stores run by the government are the most reliable to purchase the
antique items. But one has to be very careful in purchase of these items---
Do not buy any antique item that date before 1795, as they cannot be
legally exported. Every antique product is marked with a red wax seal
indicating its authenticity that can be exported from China.
Items like Chinese medicine herbs, antiques and gold and silver articles
required purchase receipts. The receipt can be demanded at the time of
custom clearance when the visitor is leaving China.
Avoid purchasing articles made form rare wild animal’s skin. All the
prohibited items will be seized without giving any compensation.
Local Markets---The most Preferred Shopping Hubs of China
The place to, really roll up your sleeves and indulge in bargaining to get
rock-bottom prices is the local market. The items are spread on the pavement
and on carriages in the back street of the market, it is the place where one
can find the lowest prices markets thronged with vast diversities of
products. In street markets, all sales are final, no warranties and, no
acceptance of credit card.
Some of the Renowned Shopping Hubs of China
Friendship Stores
These friendship stores were initially set up by the government to
facilitate services to foreign visitors. Today, these stores are converted
into modern department stores, displaying a vast range of goods including
silk; jewelry made from gold, silver, pearl and jade; embroidered
tablecloths and blouses; paintings, porcelain, pottery and handicrafts.
Prices are little higher comparing to other stores but the items offered are
of superior trait and some items are only available in these stores.
Government stores have repute for honesty. Shoppers can also bargain here.
Department Stores
The state government mostly runs Chinese Departmental Stores. Every kind
good is available at these stores, bargaining is seldom acceptable.
Hotel stores
Most luxury hotels have their own shopping mall where various souvenirs and
daily articles offered. Stores in these hotels are not cheap but one can
find some very fine quality clothing, fabrics, and antiques there.
Timings
In China, shops are open every day of the week
From --8.30 am- 8 PM. (summer) and
9 am - 7 PM (winter)
