Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in China: Must-Have Gifts

Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in China: Must-Have Gifts 

When visiting China, bringing back meaningful souvenirs is a great way to cherish memories of your trip or share a piece of Chinese culture with family and friends. With so many unique items available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best ones. Here’s a list of the top 10 souvenirs to buy in China, along with recommendations on where to find them.

1. Chinese Porcelain

With a history of over 4,000 years, Chinese porcelain is one of the country’s most renowned art forms. Whether it’s blue-and-white ceramics, delicate tea sets, or decorative vases, porcelain makes for an elegant and traditional gift.

Where to find the Chinese Procelain:

• Jingdezhen: The "Porcelain Capital of China" with countless studios and workshops.

• Beijing: Panjiayuan Antique Market for both antique and modern porcelain.

• Hangzhou: Home to exquisite Longquan celadon porcelain.

2. Chinese Tea

Tea culture is deeply embedded in Chinese history. From Longjing green tea to Pu-erh, each variety offers a unique taste and aroma. Buying authentic Chinese tea is a must for tea lovers.

Where to find the Chinese Tea:

• Hangzhou: Famous for Longjing (Dragon Well) tea.

• Fujian: The best place for Oolong tea, like Tieguanyin.

• Yunnan: Known for premium Pu-erh tea.

3. Silk Products

Chinese silk is world-famous for its softness and intricate designs. Popular silk items include scarves, qipao dresses, bedding, and embroidered artwork.

Where to find Silk Products:

• Suzhou: Known as the "City of Silk," with high-quality silk factories.

• Hangzhou: Visit the China National Silk Museum.

• Shanghai: Various silk markets and boutiques.

4. Traditional Chinese Painting & Calligraphy

Chinese paintings and calligraphy reflect centuries of artistic heritage. They make for meaningful and elegant decorations or gifts.

Where to find Chinese Painting & Calligraphy:

• Beijing: 798 Art District and Liulichang Culture Street.

• Shanghai: Tianzifang and the Bund’s art galleries.

• Xi’an: Muslim Quarter and local art markets.
  

5. Jade & Jewelry

Jade is highly valued in Chinese culture, symbolizing purity and good fortune. Jade pendants, bangles, and rings are common souvenirs.

Where to find Jade & Jewelry:

• Beijing: Hongqiao Pearl Market and Liulichang Antique Street.

• Xi’an: Local markets selling quality jade items.

• Xinjiang: The best place for Hetian jade.

6. Handmade Chopsticks

Chopsticks are a staple in Chinese dining culture and make for a unique and practical souvenir. They come in various materials, including bamboo, wood, and even silver.

Where to find Handmade Chopsticks:

• Specialty chopstick stores and gift shops in major cities.

• Local markets such as Yuyuan Bazaar in Shanghai.

7. Chinese Knots

Chinese knots are decorative crafts symbolizing good luck and prosperity. They are often used for home décor, car accessories, or as gifts.

Where to find Chinese Knots:

• Beijing: Panjiayuan Antique Market.

• Hangzhou: Hefang Street gift shops.

8. Beijing Opera Masks

These colorful masks are an essential part of Chinese opera performances and make for great decorative pieces or collectibles.

Where to find Beijing Opera Masks:

• Beijing: Local markets and souvenir shops near the Forbidden City.

• Xi’an: Markets in the Muslim Quarter.

• Chengdu: Jinli Ancient Street.

9. Chinese Liquor (Baijiu & Huangjiu)

Chinese spirits like Maotai and Wuliangye are popular souvenirs for those who appreciate strong liquor. Huangjiu (yellow wine) is another traditional option.

Where to find Chinese Baijiu:

• Supermarkets and liquor stores in major cities.

• Ethnic villages for locally brewed specialties.

10. Local Snacks & Sweets

China offers a variety of regional snacks, from spicy Sichuan snacks to Beijing’s traditional desserts.

Where to find Local Snacks & Sweets:

• Beijing: Wangfujing Snack Street.

• Shanghai: Yuyuan Bazaar.

• Chengdu: Jinli Street for Sichuan delicacies.

FAQs

Is Shopping in China Cheap?
Shopping in China can be budget-friendly, especially for local products. Markets offer lower prices, and bargaining is often expected.

How Much Does International Shipping Cost from China?
Shipping costs vary depending on weight, size, and destination. Rates range from $20 to over $100. You can contact us directly with your purchasing requests, we offer the purchasing and international shipping services.

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