Shopping in Hangzhou: Silk, Tea, Souvenirs & Best Markets

Hangzhou has been a center of trade and craftsmanship for over a thousand years. Today, it is still one of the best places in China to buy silk, Longjing green tea, traditional fans, and local snacks. This guide explains what to buy, where to shop, and how to avoid overpriced or fake goods.

What to Buy in Hangzhou

Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea)

The most famous green tea in China. The best leaves are picked before Qingming Festival in early April. Buy from reputable tea shops or directly from tea farmers in Longjing Village.

Silk Products

Hangzhou silk is world-famous. Look for scarves, pajamas, ties, quilts and clothing. The China National Silk Museum shop is a trustworthy source.

Hangzhou Fans

Traditional folding fans and silk fans make beautiful, lightweight souvenirs.

Oil-Paper Umbrellas

Decorative umbrellas from nearby regions, often sold in Hefang Street.

Local Snacks

Ding sheng gao, osmanthus cake, lotus root starch and packaged tea biscuits.

Ink Brushes & Stationery

For calligraphy lovers, quality brushes and ink are available in cultural shops.

Best Shopping Areas

Hefang Street (清河坊)

The most touristy shopping street in Hangzhou. Good for souvenirs, snacks and atmosphere, but prices can be inflated.

Best for: Souvenirs, street food, traditional crafts.

Qinghefang Ancient Street

Adjacent to Hefang Street, with more historic architecture and traditional medicine shops.

Wulin Road & Yan’an Road

Modern shopping streets with department stores, international brands and local boutiques.

Best for: Fashion, modern retail, malls.

Xixi Wetland Shopping Area

Small shops and tea houses within the wetland park, selling local crafts and tea.

Best for: Relaxed shopping in a scenic setting.

Hangzhou Silk Market

Several markets sell silk products. Quality varies, so inspect carefully.

Best for: Silk scarves, bedding, clothing.

Longjing Village Tea Shops

Buy tea directly from producers. More authentic but prices vary widely.

Best for: Premium Longjing tea.

Tips for Buying Tea

• Avoid shops that push aggressively. Fake or overpriced tea is common near tourist spots.
• Know the grades. Pre-Qingming (Mingqian) tea is the most prized and expensive.
• Ask to taste before buying. Reputable shops will offer samples.
• Buy small amounts. Tea is best consumed fresh within a year.
• Check the color and smell. Good Longjing has a flat, jade-green leaf and a fresh, nutty aroma.

Tips for Buying Silk

• Check the label. Real silk should feel cool, smooth and slightly heavy.
• Do the burn test if unsure. Real silk smells like burning hair; synthetic smells like plastic.
• Compare prices. Silk scarves in museums or brand shops are more expensive but authentic.
• Avoid “bargain” silk. Very cheap silk is usually polyester.

Bargaining Culture

• Tourist markets: Bargaining is expected. Start at 50–60% of the asking price.
• Department stores and brand shops: Prices are fixed.
• Tea shops: Prices are usually fixed, but you may get a small discount for larger purchases.

Tax Refund for Tourists

Foreign tourists can receive a VAT refund on purchases over ¥500 from designated stores. Ask the shop for a tax refund form and present it at customs when leaving China.

Recommended Shops

Shop	Location	Specialty
Silk Museum Shop	China National Silk Museum	Silk scarves, ties
Zhang Xiaoquan Scissors	Hefang Street	Traditional scissors, kitchenware
Hu Qing Yu Tang Pharmacy	Hefang Street	Traditional Chinese medicine
Longjing Village tea farms	Longjing Village	Fresh Longjing tea

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