What to Buy in Shanghai – Best Souvenirs, Local Snacks & Shopping Tips

Stepping into Shanghai for the first time, I felt like I was watching a futuristic city unfold before my eyes. As a Malaysian used to a more relaxed city pace, the dizzying skyline of Lujiazui 🏙️, the buzz of electric scooters zipping past, and the neon-lit streets of Nanjing Road 🛍️ all hit me at once—with excitement! From the moment I landed, I was already comparing it to KL or Penang—but Shanghai felt like KL’s cooler, faster, more tech-savvy cousin. The weather in Shanghai was surprisingly breezy during my trip, and thankfully not too humid—perfect for long walks between attractions and malls!

And wow, the shopping here? 🛍️ Whether I was hunting for quirky souvenirs at Tianzifang, grabbing limited-edition kicks at Huaihai Road, or browsing affordable fashion at Qipu Road Market, there was always something to bring home. 💳 Prices ranged from high-end to totally wallet-friendly, and the mix of local finds and global brands kept me busy for hours. And let’s talk food—every street corner smelled like heaven 🍜, from juicy xiaolongbao to spicy skewers. Whether you’re still deciding where to stay in Shanghai, or just mapping out your trip, one thing’s clear: this city blends tradition with style in a way that keeps you wanting more.

Ready to explore? Here's where to go in Shanghai! 🚀🗺️

🧧 Discover the Meaning Behind Chinese Knot Decorations

I stumbled upon my first Chinese knot in a small, tucked-away alley near Yuyuan Bazaar, where red lanterns danced gently in the breeze and the scent of fried buns filled the air 🍢. The shopkeeper, an elderly woman with silver-streaked hair, told me how each knot is tied by hand—no scissors, no glue, just tradition and skill. She picked up a bright red one shaped like a butterfly and explained it symbolized happiness and longevity. I was instantly charmed. It felt like I wasn’t just buying a souvenir—I was bringing home a piece of Shanghai’s soul.

📖 About Chinese Knot Decorations

These intricate knots are one of the most authentic keepsakes from Shanghai, symbolizing good luck, harmony, and unity. Traditionally exchanged during festivals or weddings, they’ve become must-buy souvenirs in Shanghai for their cultural significance and handmade artistry.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and meaningful—a perfect décor piece or gift that adds a splash of red fortune to any Malaysian home 🏠.

📍 Where to buy:

Yuyuan Bazaar, Tianzifang boutique shops

💰 Cost:

Around RMB 15–80 depending on size and detail; often comes in a red envelope or gift box

💡 Pro Tips:

• Check the knot tightness—handmade ones feel firm and precise
• Ask for the meaning of the pattern (butterfly, coin, fish)
• Great to hand-carry—non-fragile and customs-safe

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Absolutely—kids can pick smaller ones shaped like animals 🐟 or hearts ❤️. A fun keepsake they can hang in their rooms or backpacks!

🥠 Bring Home the Surprise: Shanghai-Style Fortune Cookies

I wasn’t expecting to find fortune cookies in Shanghai until I wandered into a charming teahouse in the French Concession. There, nestled among calligraphy brushes and tea tins, were golden, handmade fortune cookies—crunchy, fragrant, and each hiding a Chinese proverb printed in delicate calligraphy 🖋️. The vendor let me taste one, and I was hooked. It wasn’t just about the cookie—it was about the surprise inside, the warm welcome of culture wrapped in pastry.

📖 About Shanghai Fortune Cookies

Unlike the Western version, these cookies are often filled with traditional idioms or blessings. Once a hidden gem, they’re now popular souvenirs from Shanghai, reflecting a blend of East-meets-West and offering a whimsical take on what to buy in Shanghai for family or friends.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

They’re great conversation starters back home 🇲🇾, perfect for sharing during gatherings or as party favours. Plus, the blend of novelty and cultural flair makes them especially fun for food-loving Malaysians!

📍 Where to buy:

Gift shops near The Bund, boutique bakeries in Tianzifang

💰 Cost:

Around RMB 30–60 per box (8–12 cookies); usually comes in a decorative tin or paper box

💡 Pro Tips:

• Avoid mass-produced packs—look for small-batch or artisan shops
• Check expiry dates if bringing home as gifts
• Some shops let you customise the messages!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Totally! Kids love cracking them open 🍪, and it’s a cute way for them to learn a few Chinese phrases. Just make sure to pack them gently—they’re fragile but safe for travel.

🖌️ Bring Home the Craft of Hand-Painted Shanghai Fans

I found this gem tucked inside a quiet stall in the back lanes of Tianzifang, where the buzz of cafés gave way to the rhythmic sound of brushes sweeping across silk. A middle-aged artisan sat in the warm afternoon light, painting delicate plum blossoms onto a fan—each stroke patient and poetic. He let me try one, and though my lines were far from perfect, the experience made me fall in love with the detail and calm behind this timeless craft. The silk felt smooth, the wooden ribs cool to the touch—grace and function in one.

🎨 About Hand-Painted Silk Fans

These fans trace back to ancient dynasties and remain beloved handmade crafts in Shanghai. Popular with nobles and scholars, they often feature traditional motifs like cranes, peonies, or Chinese calligraphy. They’re among the most authentic handcrafted gifts in Shanghai, blending beauty with cultural heritage.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

Compact, artistic, and meaningful, these fans are ideal for Malaysian collectors, décor lovers, or anyone who appreciates functional art—plus they’re perfect for our tropical heat! ☀️

📍 Where to buy:

Tianzifang art lane, Yuyuan Garden craft section

💰 Cost:

Varies by complexity; simple pieces from ¥60, custom orders available

💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask if the artist can write your name in calligraphy on the fan
• Visit early in the day for live painting demos
• Wrap in soft fabric to protect delicate silk

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! Kids can pick mini fans or even join short fan-painting workshops—great for a creative bonding moment 🎨🧒.

🛍️Experience Shanghai’s Traditional Embroidery Art

I discovered Shanghai-style embroidery in a quiet boutique near the Former French Concession. As I browsed, a local craftswoman was stitching a koi fish pattern onto a fabric pouch—her hands moved with hypnotic precision. She explained that this style uses subtle gradients and fine silk threads, often requiring weeks for a single piece. I held one up close and could barely tell where one color ended and another began—it was like painting with thread.

🎨 About Shanghai Embroidery

Rooted in Suzhou embroidery traditions, this refined style is now a prized local artisan good from Shanghai. It’s known for its realism, elegance, and rich storytelling—perfect as framed wall art, embroidered scarves, or detailed accessories. It’s one of the finest handmade souvenirs to celebrate Shanghai’s deep textile heritage.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

It’s luxurious yet personal—great for gifting, or for Malaysians who love rich textures and Chinese heritage. You can even get initials or meaningful motifs stitched in! 💝

📍 Where to buy:

Former French Concession craft boutiques, Shanghai Museum gift shop

💰 Cost:

Varies by complexity; simple pieces from ¥120, custom orders available

💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask for an embroidery certificate if buying premium pieces
• Best to purchase flat pieces for easy packing
• Look for exhibitions where artisans showcase their stitching in real-time

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Definitely—kids love watching the stitching process and can even buy embroidered patches of pandas, flowers, or cartoon characters 🧵🐼.

🥮 Taste of Tradition: Shanghai-Style Mooncakes with a Twist

I discovered these mooncakes while browsing through a cozy tea boutique near Xintiandi. The scent of lotus paste and baked crust was too tempting to ignore. Unlike the heavy, dense versions I’ve had before, this Shanghai-style mooncake was buttery, flakier, and less sweet—just the way Malaysians like it! I tried one with red bean and another with a savory pork floss filling—unexpected, but delicious. My travel buddy immediately asked, “Can we bring these home?” We ended up packing five boxes—one for the family, one for the office, and… a few for ourselves 😅.

📖 About Shanghai Mooncakes

These lighter, flakier versions are a local spin on the Mid-Autumn treat. With fillings like sesame, taro, and salty egg yolk, they’re snack gifts from Shanghai that blend tradition with city flair. Perfect for festive gifting or year-round indulgence.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

These mooncakes suit our tropical tastebuds—less oily, not too sweet, and available in halal or vegetarian options. Ideal for sharing during gatherings!

📍 Where to buy:

Xing Hua Lou, Sunya Cantonese Cake Shop, City’super

💰 Cost:

Around ¥80–180 per box; available in travel-safe tins or gift boxes

💡 Pro Tips:

• Look for seasonal specials with durian or matcha
• Ask for free tasting in specialty stores
• Great with a pot of Chinese tea 🍵

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! They come in bite-sized pieces, are easy to share, and kids love fun fillings like chocolate or custard. Check labels for nuts or allergens.

🍘 Crunch into Local Flavor: Shanghai Scallion Oil Rice Crackers

I stumbled upon these at a local snack shop just off Nanjing East Road. The packaging caught my eye—bright green with cartoon scallions—and the smell was heavenly. I took a bite and it was love at first crunch: light, crisp, with that distinct roasted scallion aroma that reminded me of our Malaysian-style fried shallots 🍽️. My friend said, “It’s like our keropok meets biscuit!” We ended up buying a few bags for road snacks and more to bring back home.

📖 About Scallion Oil Rice Crackers

Inspired by Shanghai’s signature scallion oil noodles, these crispy rice crackers capture the city’s umami-rich flavor in snack form. They’ve quickly become local snacks for tourists and a top pick among snacks to buy in Shanghai.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

They’re halal-friendly, individually packed, and perfect for nibbling on-the-go or sharing over kopi sessions. A taste of Shanghai with every bite! ☕️

📍 Where to buy:

Lianhua Supermarket, Hema Fresh, Shanghai First Foodhall

💰 Cost:

Around ¥25–35 per pack; comes in resealable bags

💡 Pro Tips:

• Look for “葱油” (scallion oil) on the label
• Stays fresh for up to 2 months
• Try the spicy version if you like a kick 🌶️

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Definitely—no mess, fun to eat, and safe for school snacks. Just keep an eye on sodium levels for younger kids.

👜 Rock a Piece of Shanghai Street Style with a Made-in-China Tote

While wandering through the edgy alleys of Anfu Road, I stumbled into a sleek, sunlit concept store that looked straight out of a Pinterest board. Clean lines, concrete walls, mellow jazz playing—it was a vibe. Hanging by the entrance was a collection of canvas totes printed with bold Chinese calligraphy and retro pop art 😍. One design, a nostalgic nod to old Shanghai alley life, caught my eye. It was love at first sight. The quality felt premium, and I knew this would become my everyday tote back in Malaysia. A great blend of function and fashion.

📖 About the “Made in China” Tote by Labelhood

Labelhood is part of the rising wave of independent brands in Shanghai, spotlighting local identity through modern streetwear. Their totes are stylish, sustainable, and proudly showcase the phrase “MADE IN CHINA” as a statement—not just a tag.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

It’s bold, cultural, lightweight, and super functional—great for travel days, work, or your favorite weekend kopitiam run.

📍 Where to buy:

Labelhood Store, Anfu Road

💰 Cost:

Prices range from ¥120–¥280; many shops offer Asian-fit sizes and customizations

💡 Pro Tips:

• Check second-floor concept stores on Anfu or Changle Road
• Ask about limited-edition collabs
• Some shops offer monogramming for an extra local touch

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! There are mini tote versions for kids and printed bucket hats that match—great for cool family photos 🧢👜📸

👘 Wrap Yourself in Elegance: Modern Qipao with a Twist

I wasn’t planning on buying clothes when I entered a chic boutique in Tianzifang, but the sight of a modern qipao in soft linen with subtle floral embroidery stopped me in my tracks. It wasn’t the stiff, traditional version I expected—it had a relaxed fit, side pockets (!), and a pastel palette that screamed modern-day Shanghai girl boss 🌸. The shop assistant told me each piece was handmade with breathable fabrics and adjustable sizing. I tried one on and immediately felt like I could wear it to brunch or even a family gathering back home.

📖 About the Modern Qipao by Shang Xia

Founded with the backing of Hermès, Shang Xia reimagines traditional Chinese designs with modern elegance. Their pieces are the pinnacle of local fashion in Shanghai, combining heritage with high-end design and comfort.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

The fabrics are cool and breezy—perfect for Malaysian weather. Plus, it’s a conversation piece that blends cultural pride with everyday wear.

📍 Where to buy:

Shang Xia, Huaihai Road Flagship or IFC Mall

💰 Cost:

Prices range from ¥980–¥2,800; many shops offer Asian-fit sizes and customizations

💡 Pro Tips:

• Visit on weekdays for personalized fitting service
• Ask about breathable blends for tropical weather
• They offer tailoring on-site for minor alterations

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes—there are stylish matching qipao sets for moms and daughters, and even soft embroidered accessories like scarves and coin pouches 🧣👧

🛍️ Getting Lost in the Charm of Tianzifang

The moment I stepped into Tianzifang, I felt like I had stumbled into a maze of creativity. Narrow alleyways lined with red brick façades opened up to tiny boutiques, quirky art studios, and vintage-style cafés. The air was filled with a mix of incense, coffee, and the soft hum of jazz from a nearby vinyl shop 🎷. I browsed handmade leather wallets, bought a beautiful blue-and-white ceramic mug with a dragon motif, and chatted with a local artist painting delicate Chinese landscapes onto tote bags. It wasn’t just shopping—it felt like discovering a different side of Shanghai, one sketchbook and souvenir at a time.

📖 About Tianzifang

Once a traditional residential area, Tianzifang has evolved into one of the most popular local markets in Shanghai. It’s known for its blend of art, design, and indie fashion. Visitors love its labyrinth-like charm, where every turn reveals something unexpected—from handmade crafts and accessories to specialty teas and prints. A true gem for shopping in Shanghai.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

Tianzifang offers a slower pace and tons of character—perfect for Malaysians who enjoy curated souvenirs, local artisan vibes, and IG-worthy photo ops 📸.

📍 Where to find:

Taikang Road (near Dapuqiao Station, Metro Line 9)

💰 Cost:

Varies widely; bargaining is common in some artist stalls, fixed prices in boutique stores

💡 Pro Tips:

• Go early (before 11am) to avoid the crowds and enjoy peaceful browsing
• Try the alley’s bubble tea or craft beer for a break 🧋🍺
• Bring cash for small vendors—many don’t accept foreign cards

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! It’s stroller-friendly (though narrow in spots), and kids love the souvenir toy shops, street snacks, and colorful art displays 🎨🧒.

🛒 Exploring the Colorful Chaos of Qipu Road Market

Walking into Qipu Road Market was like stepping into the heartbeat of Shanghai’s fashion scene—fast, loud, and full of personality. The building buzzed with vendors calling out deals, the rustle of plastic shopping bags, and the occasional beat of K-pop blaring from speaker stalls. I weaved through racks of affordable streetwear, accessories, and cute knock-off designer bags. One shopkeeper even offered to tailor a jacket on the spot. I snagged a trendy varsity jacket for a steal and a pack of quirky socks with dumpling prints 🧦🥟. It was the kind of chaotic fun that made bargain-hunting a full-blown adventure.

📖 About Qipu Road Market

Qipu Road is one of the best shopping streets in Shanghai for budget fashion lovers. Once the go-to wholesale hub, it now attracts style-savvy locals and travelers looking for cheap shopping in Shanghai. From clothes and bags to accessories and shoes, it’s a treasure trove if you love digging for deals.

🎁 Why It’s Great for Malaysian Travelers

Perfect for Malaysians who love mixing style with savings. The styles are Asian-fit, trendy, and seasonal—great for fashionistas or souvenir hunters on a budget.

📍 Where to find:

Qipu Road near Tiantong Road Metro Station (Line 10 or 12)

💰 Cost:

Varies widely; bargaining is common in markets, fixed prices in retail stores

💡 Pro Tips:

• Bring cash (some vendors don’t accept international cards)
• Go on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and better deals
• Watch your belongings—it’s busy and fast-paced!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Somewhat—it’s stroller-accessible, and older kids will enjoy picking out accessories or cute T-shirts, but it’s crowded and loud, so younger children might tire quickly.

Souvenirs That Speak Shanghai

Looking back at all the unique souvenirs I found in Shanghai—from hand-painted silk fans to crunchy scallion snacks and modern qipao—I can honestly say each piece carries a little bit of the city’s soul. Sure, navigating through the crowded markets or trying to explain your preferred tote bag design with hand gestures can be a challenge 😅, but it’s all part of the charm—and it makes every find even more meaningful. The energy in Shanghai’s shopping districts is infectious, from bustling Qipu Road to the artsy corners of Tianzifang. If you’re starting to feel that itch to explore, now’s a great time to book those flights to Shanghai and start browsing hotels in Shanghai that suit your travel style. Don’t forget to check out the latest travel promotions for Shanghai—you might just score an amazing deal. Can’t wait for you to experience it all yourself. Happy shopping and safe travels, friend! 💼✈️🛍️

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