1. What are the most popular shopping destinations in Jiaxing?
Some of the most popular shopping destinations in Jiaxing include:– Yintai Shopping Mall: This large mall features a wide range of international and domestic clothing brands, as well as restaurants and entertainment options.
– Wanda Plaza: Another popular mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.
– Qianjiang New City Commercial Center: Located in the business area of Jiaxing, this shopping center offers a mix of retail stores, restaurants and office spaces.
– Nanhu District Shopping Street: This pedestrian street is known for its traditional Chinese architecture and features shops selling souvenirs, local specialties, and snacks.
2. What are some traditional items to buy in Jiaxing?
Some traditional items to buy in Jiaxing include:
– Huilan Xiang Silk Products: Known for its high-quality silk production, Jiaxing is a great place to purchase silk scarves, clothing, and other goods made from this luxurious material.
– Jianhu Lake Crayfish: These freshwater crustaceans are a specialty dish in Jiaxing and can be purchased live or cooked at local markets or restaurants.
– Longjing Tea: Grown on the outskirts of the city near Hangzhou Bay, Longjing tea is considered one of China’s finest green teas. Visitors can purchase this tea at local tea houses or markets.
– Sunhe Folk Toys: These handmade wooden toys are native to Jiaxing and have been produced for over 800 years. They make unique souvenirs for both children and adults.
3. What are some street markets in Jiaxing?
Some street markets in Jiaxing include:
– Nanhu District Shopping Street: As mentioned before, this pedestrian street is lined with traditional buildings housing various shops selling local products such as silk scarves, handicrafts, snacks, and more.
– Tongxiang Local & Speciality Product Market: This market specializes in local and traditional items such as dried seafood, folk crafts, and specialty snacks.
– Jiaxing Hengfeng Fishing Gear Market: A must-visit for fishing enthusiasts, this market offers a variety of fishing equipment and supplies at affordable prices.
– Nanyuan Road Cultural Street Market: Located in the historic district of Jiaxing, this market sells a mix of souvenirs, antiques, and cultural items.
2. How is the overall shopping experience in Jiaxing?
The overall shopping experience in Jiaxing is varied, with a mix of traditional markets and modern shopping malls. Here are some key aspects to consider:
– Variety of options: Jiaxing has a diverse range of shopping options, from small local shops and street vendors to large malls and department stores. This means you can find everything from luxury brands to affordable goods.
– Bargaining culture: When shopping at smaller local shops or markets, it is common practice to bargain for a lower price. It is important to know the current market value of an item before negotiating.
– Quality and authenticity: While many goods sold in Jiaxing may be authentic, it is possible to come across counterfeit or low-quality products. Be cautious when purchasing branded items at a lower price and always double-check for quality before making a purchase.
– Convenience: Most major shopping areas in Jiaxing are easily accessible by public transportation, making it convenient to get around.
– Local specialties: Jiaxing is known for its silk production, so you will find many shops selling silk products such as scarves and clothing. The city also offers various local food products like crab meat candy, preserved vegetables, and bamboo shoots that make for great souvenirs.
Overall, the shopping experience in Jiaxing can be enjoyable if you are willing to explore different areas and take part in the bargaining culture. Keep an open mind and be prepared for unique finds at affordable prices.
3. Can you find bargain deals at local markets in Jiaxing?
Yes, there are several local markets in Jiaxing where you can find bargain deals. Some popular markets include:
1. Huangguan Clothing Market: This market is known for its affordable and trendy clothing items, with prices as low as 20 RMB.
2. Qunli Cultural Trade City: This is a large wholesale market selling a variety of goods such as clothing, shoes, bags, home décor, and electronics at discounted prices.
3. Miaovoice Creative Plaza: A popular night market where you can find unique handmade items such as jewelry, accessories, and home decorations at bargain prices.
4. Minhang International Home Textile Market: Specializes in bedding, curtains, and towels at wholesale prices.
Other smaller markets like the No.1 Middle School Station Market and Nanbei New Japan Street also offer great bargains on a variety of goods including clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and household products. It is always recommended to bargain with the vendors for better deals in these markets.
4. Are there any unique or traditional markets in Jiaxing worth visiting?
1. Wujiang Road Night Market: This outdoor market is located in the heart of Jiaxing and offers a variety of street food, snacks, and traditional handicrafts. It is especially popular with locals and tourists for its lively atmosphere and delicious food.
2. Nanhu Food Street: This market is situated near Nanhu Lake and features a mix of local snacks, fresh seafood, and traditional dishes from the Zhejiang region. It’s a great place to try authentic Jiaxing cuisine.
3. Meizhou Island Seafood Market: Located on Meizhou Island, this bustling market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. Visitors can choose their own seafood and have it cooked on-site at one of the many restaurants.
4. Yangming Agricultural Products Market: This market specializes in locally grown produce including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. The vendors here are friendly and knowledgeable about their products, making it a great place to learn about regional agriculture.
5. Xitang Ancient Town Farmer’s Market: Set against the backdrop of an ancient water town, this market offers an incredible array of handmade goods such as pottery, silk fabrics, paper lanterns, and more. It’s a great spot to pick up some unique souvenirs or gifts.
6. Wangjiangjing Farmers’ Market: This market features traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, rare teas, authentic handicrafts, and other unique items that are hard to find elsewhere in Jiaxing.
7. Xiuzhou Central Fruit & Vegetable Wholesale Market: If you’re looking for affordable fresh produce in bulk quantities, this is the place to go. It’s one of the largest wholesale markets in Jiaxing and sells a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and more.
8. Zhu Ji Taoist Water God Temple Market: Located near South Lake Park in Jiaxing, this market offers everything from antiques and curios to traditional Chinese clothing and jewelry. It’s a great spot for souvenir shopping and exploring local culture.
9. Xiuzhou Tea Wholesale Market: As the name suggests, this market specializes in tea, both wholesale and retail. It’s a popular spot for tea connoisseurs looking for high-quality teas at reasonable prices.
10. Pinghu Baimao Bicycle Market: Jiaxing has a long history of bicycle production, and this market is a testament to that legacy. It boasts a vast array of bikes ranging from modern brands to vintage classics, making it a must-visit spot for cycling enthusiasts.
5. What is the best way to get around and explore the shopping options in Jiaxing?
The best way to get around and explore the shopping options in Jiaxing is by using public transportation, such as buses or taxis. Alternatively, you can also rent a bike or join a guided tour to visit different shopping areas. Some popular shopping areas in Jiaxing include Yintai Department Store, Wanda Plaza, and Jiaxing Trade City.
6. How is the quality of products sold at markets and shops in Jiaxing compared to other cities in China?
The quality of products sold at markets and shops in Jiaxing is generally good, with a variety of options available. However, it may not be as high-end or diverse as big cities like Shanghai or Beijing. The prices are also comparatively lower in Jiaxing, making it a popular destination for budget shoppers. Overall, the quality of products in Jiaxing is decent but may not be on par with other major cities in China.
7. Are there any famous souvenir items from Jiaxing that can be purchased in the markets?
Yes, there are several famous souvenir items from Jiaxing that can be purchased in the markets, including:
1. Nanxun silk: Known for its high quality and intricate patterns, Nanxun silk is a popular traditional souvenir from Jiaxing.
2. Bamboo crafts: Jiaxing is known for its bamboo industry, and you can find various bamboo crafts such as baskets, cups, and utensils in the markets.
3. Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings): Zongzi is a traditional Chinese snack made of sticky rice wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves. In Jiaxing, zongzi is a popular food souvenir.
4. Longhu vermicelli: Made from rice flour, Longhu vermicelli is a specialty of Jiaxing and is often sold as a staple food in local markets.
5. Huangshan pomelos: These large citrus fruits are a specialty of the Huangshan area in Jiaxing and make for a unique and tasty souvenir.
6. Teas: Jiaxing produces high-quality green tea, black tea, and other types of tea that make great souvenirs for tea lovers.
7. Traditional handicrafts: Handmade items such as paper-cuttings, wood carvings, and clay figurines are also popular souvenirs in Jiaxing.
8. Is bargaining acceptable at markets and small shops in Jiaxing?
Yes, bargaining is acceptable at markets and small shops in Jiaxing. However, it is not as common or expected as it may be in other cities or countries. It is best to politely ask for a discount on the price before making a purchase. Ultimately, the seller has the final say on whether or not to bargain.
9. Which areas or districts in Jiaxing are known for their shopping scene?
Some popular shopping districts in Jiaxing include:
1. Nanhu District: This district is known for its large shopping centers and malls, such as Nanhu Wenchang Plaza and Jiali International Square.
2. Xiuzhou District: This area has a mix of modern shopping centers and traditional street markets, offering a variety of goods at affordable prices.
3. Haining Leather City: Located in Haining city within the Jiaxing prefecture, this district is famous for its leather products and is a popular destination for shoppers looking for high-quality leather goods.
4. Pinghu City: Another city within the Jiaxing prefecture, Pinghu is known for its clothing factories that produce garments for international brands. The city also has several factory outlets where visitors can buy designer clothes at discounted prices.
5. Xitang Ancient Town: While not strictly a shopping district, Xitang Ancient Town is known for its charming shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Chinese snacks. It’s a great place for visitors to buy unique gifts or souvenirs to take back home.
10. Are there any street food options near market areas for a quick snack while shopping?
Yes, there are usually street food options near market areas for a quick snack while shopping. Some popular street foods that can be found in market areas include churros, tacos, elotes (corn on the cob), fruit cups, hot dogs, and tamales. These vendors typically set up their stalls or carts near busy market areas to cater to shoppers looking for a quick bite to eat. Just be sure to check the hygiene and cleanliness of the food and vendor before making a purchase.
11. Is it easy to find western brands and products in the markets and malls of Jiaxing?
Yes, it is easy to find western brands and products in the markets and malls of Jiaxing. Many international brands have locations in major shopping centers, such as InCity and Wanda Plaza. There are also several supermarkets, including Walmart, Carrefour, and Metro, that offer a wide selection of imported goods from western countries. Additionally, many smaller convenience stores carry popular western snacks and drinks.
12. What are some must-visit specialty stores or boutiques for unique goods in Jiaxing?
1. Jiaxing Lianghu Teapot Market: This market offers a wide variety of traditional Chinese teapots and tea accessories.
2. Xitang Ancient Town: This is a popular shopping destination for handcrafted bamboo and wood products, such as furniture, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
3. Qiushi Silk Museum: This museum not only showcases the history of silk production in Jiaxing but also offers a selection of high-quality silk products for purchase.
4. Wuzhen Water Town: Known for its quaint canals and historic charm, Wuzhen is also home to various shops selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, including silk embroidery, lacquerware, and paper-cutting.
5. Fengqi Road Shopping Street: This bustling street is lined with boutique stores selling unique clothing and accessories made by local designers.
6. Zhang Jingjiang Art Gallery: Located in a historic building from the Qing dynasty, this gallery sells exquisite hand-painted porcelain items produced by renowned local artist Zhang Jingjiang.
7. Nanxi Old Street: This ancient street is packed with small stores selling local specialties such as bamboo shoots, konjac jelly, and dried tofu.
8. Shantou Painting Workshop: If you’re looking for hand-painted calligraphy or traditional Chinese paintings made by skilled artists, this workshop is worth a visit.
9. Jiaxing Municipal Farm Product Institute Co., Ltd.: This store offers a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the fertile lands surrounding Jiaxing.
10. Hefeng Antique Market: This indoor market has a vast collection of antiques, including furniture, ceramics, and coins.
11. Yangshan Towel Museum Shop: For high-quality towels made from traditional materials like cotton and linen or modern microfiber fabric, visit this specialty shop at the Yangshan Towel Museum.
12. Caishiji Folk Arts Crafts Store: This store specializes in handcrafted folk art, including paper cutting, wood carving, and traditional Chinese knotting.
13. Are there any open-air markets or night markets that operate during weekends or holidays in Jiaxing?
Yes, there are a few open-air markets and night markets that operate during weekends and holidays in Jiaxing.
1. Jiaxing People’s Square Weekend Market: Located in the center of Jiaxing, this market is open every Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 6pm. It offers a variety of products including fresh produce, clothing, accessories, household items and more.
2. Shimao Plaza Night Market: This market is set up on weekends and public holidays from 5pm to 10pm at Shimao Plaza. Visitors can find a wide range of street food, handicrafts, souvenirs and entertainment activities.
3. Honghe Cultural and Creative Park Weekend Market: This market is open only on weekends from 10am to 5pm. It features unique handmade products such as arts, crafts, jewelry and home decorations.
4. Huijin Night Market: Located near Xitang Water Town in Jiashan County, this night market operates on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6pm to midnight. It offers a bustling atmosphere with various food stalls selling local delicacies.
5. Nanhu Columbia Mall Farmer’s Market: This outdoor farmer’s market is open every weekend from 9am to 5pm at Nanhu Columbia Mall. Visitors can purchase farm-fresh produce directly from the farmers at affordable prices.
Note: These markets might have occasional closures or changes in operating hours due to weather conditions or special events. It is recommended to double check with the respective venues before visiting.
14. What types of locally produced goods can be found at the markets and shops of Jiaxing?
The types of locally produced goods that can be found at the markets and shops of Jiaxing include:
1. Silks and Satins: Jiaxing is known for its silk production, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. You can find a variety of silks and satins, including traditional brocade, hand-dyed silk, and more.
2. Bamboo products: Jiaxing is also famous for its bamboo production. You can find a wide range of bamboo products at the markets, including bamboo furniture, handicrafts, and household items.
3. Rice wine: Jiaxing is home to the famous rice wine brand “Nantang Old Cellar,” which has been around for over 1,000 years. Other rice wine brands can also be found at the local markets.
4. Pottery and Porcelain: Jiaxing has a long history of producing pottery and porcelain products, including teapots, vases, bowls, and other decorative items.
5. Tea: The tea industry is booming in Jiaxing with various types of tea being produced in the region such as Longjing tea (Dragon Well) and Xinyang Maojian tea.
6. Fresh fruits and vegetables: Being located near Taihu Lake, one of China’s largest freshwater lakes supporting agriculture in the area; you can find various fresh fruits and vegetables at the markets.
7. Seafood: With its proximity to the East China Sea coast, Jiaxing is also known for its seafood offerings such as prawns, crabs, clams, oysters etc.
8. Lacquerware: Lacquerware has been an important craft in Jiaxing since ancient times. Various lacquerware items such as boxes, bowls or plates with intricate designs are available at local shops.
9. Calligraphy tools: If you’re interested in calligraphy or Chinese brush painting, you can find high-quality brushes, ink, paper and other calligraphy tools at the markets.
10. Handicrafts: Jiaxing has a rich history of handicrafts such as woodcarving, embroidery and paper-cutting. You can find these traditional crafts and products at local shops.
11. Local snacks: Jiaxing is also famous for its local snacks such as sesame cakes (gaozhi), dried tofu (bean curd), and rice cakes (nangua bing).
12. Traditional medicines: You can also find traditional Chinese medicine ingredients and products at the local markets.
13. Clothing and textiles: Jiaxing is home to several textile mills producing fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and wool. You can find a variety of clothing made from these textiles at the markets.
14. Handmade toys: Traditional handmade toys such as shadow puppets, wooden toys, kites etc. can also be found in the markets of Jiaxing.
15. Are there any good electronic market options for purchasing gadgets, appliances, etc.?
Yes, there are many good electronic market options for purchasing gadgets, appliances, and other electronics. Some of the best ones include Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Newegg, and B&H Photo Video. These retailers offer a wide variety of products from different brands at competitive prices, along with various deals and discounts. Additionally, there are also specialized retailers for specific types of electronics such as gaming consoles (GameStop), computer components (Micro Center), and smartphones (Apple Store). It is advisable to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure the best deal.
16. Are there designated market days or times for specific items such as fruits, vegetables, clothes, etc.?
It depends on the specific market and location. Some markets may have designated days for different types of items, while others may offer a variety of products on all days. It’s best to check with the specific market or ask vendors about their schedule for different items.
17. How reliable is online shopping from vendors based in Jiaxing?
In general, online shopping from vendors based in Jiaxing can be reliable. However, as with any online shopping experience, there are some factors that may affect reliability such as the reputation of the vendor and the level of customer service provided.
Jiaxing is known for its manufacturing industry, so there are many vendors based in the city selling a wide range of products online. Some of these vendors have been established for a long time and have a good reputation for providing quality products and reliable services.
However, there may also be some less reputable vendors who may not provide accurate product descriptions or may not fulfill orders on time. It is important to do thorough research on a vendor before making a purchase to ensure reliability.
Additionally, communicating with the vendor directly and asking questions about their products and shipping policies can also give you an idea of their reliability. Reading reviews from previous customers can also help gauge the trustworthiness of a vendor.
Overall, while online shopping from vendors based in Jiaxing can generally be reliable, it is important to do your due diligence and research before making a purchase to ensure a positive experience.
18. Do you recommend buying souvenirs and gifts from shops and markets, or should one opt for factory outlets instead?
It really depends on personal preference. Souvenirs and gifts from shops and markets may be more unique and hand-crafted, while factory outlets may offer discounted prices for mass-produced items. It’s important to do research and compare prices to make the best choice for you.
19 How do prices compare between larger supermarkets and smaller local stores within the city?
The prices of groceries and other items can vary greatly between larger supermarkets and smaller local stores in a city. Generally, larger supermarkets have lower prices due to their bulk purchasing power and ability to offer discounts and promotions. They also tend to carry a wider selection of products.
Smaller local stores, on the other hand, may have higher prices due to their smaller scale and inability to offer discounts in the same way as larger retailers. However, they may have specialized or unique products that cannot be found at larger supermarkets.
In some cases, prices may also vary between different neighborhoods within a city. For example, areas with higher incomes or higher demand for certain products may have slightly higher prices than areas with lower demand.
Overall, it is difficult to make generalizations about price comparisons between larger supermarkets and smaller local stores as they can vary significantly depending on location, product selection, and other factors. It is best to compare specific items between different stores in order to find the best deals.
20 Can you share any tips for a newcomer to navigate through the bustling market streets of Jiaxing with ease?
1. Start with a map: Before setting out to explore the market streets of Jiaxing, it’s always a good idea to grab a map or download one on your phone. This will help you get a sense of the area and plan your route accordingly.
2. Wear comfortable shoes: The market streets of Jiaxing can get crowded and busy, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes to avoid tired feet.
3. Bargaining is key: Many vendors in the market streets of Jiaxing expect customers to bargain for better prices. Make sure you negotiate politely and be prepared to walk away if you don’t feel like you’re getting a fair deal.
4. Be aware of scams: As with any bustling market, there may be scammers trying to take advantage of naive tourists. Be cautious when dealing with strangers and avoid sharing personal or financial information.
5. Try the local food: Jiaxing is known for its delicious street food, so make sure to indulge in some while exploring the market streets. Just be careful about eating from unhygienic food stalls.
6. Keep an eye on your belongings: Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep your valuables close to you at all times.
7. Explore side alleys: While the main market streets may have larger crowds and more popular shops, don’t be afraid to venture into smaller side alleys for unique finds and potentially better deals.
8. Use public transportation: The best way to navigate through the busy streets is by using public transportation such as buses or taxis. This will save you time and energy as well as help you avoid getting lost.
9. Learn some Mandarin phrases: While many vendors may know basic English, knowing a few Mandarin phrases will greatly help in communicating and bargaining effectively.
10. Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you do find yourself lost or confused, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a local or a shop owner. Many people in Jiaxing are friendly and will be happy to assist you.